Denard Robinson, Mike Hart to compete in 2022 Michigan Home Run Derby
Legendary New York Yankees outfielder Roger Maris once said, “You hit home runs not by chance, but by preparation.”
We’ll soon find out how much preparation is taking place in Michigan, because the 2022 Home Run Derby field has officially been set. Former U-M quarterback John Wangler, radio host Doug Karsch, running backs coach Mike Hart and all-time Michigan icon Denard Robinson will face off in the Michigan Softball Academy’s Home Run Derby on Thursday, April 28 at 7 p.m. ET.
The event is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society with each participant taking donations to benefit cancer awareness and research.
The hitter with the most donations by 5 p.m. on April 28 will win home field advantage. Fans can sponsor a ball online for $500 to the hitter of their choosing and receive one in return signed by all participants plus head coach Carol Hutchins and the 2022 Michigan Softball Academy Honorary Chair, Amanda Chidester.
Chidester is a 2020 Olympian and will serve as the evening’s catcher, while fellow Michigan softball product Nikki Cortis has the honor of taking the mound. Cortis will ensure each hitter has ten pitches to work with, and whoever can rack up the most home runs earns the crown.
For those who plan to attend, you should arrive at Alumni field ahead of schedule as the derby ends by 7:20 p.m. ET. It will all take place after the on-field clinics, and be aware that donations for the derby do not include admission to any of the related gatherings.
Schedule of events
Registration (4:30 p.m.)
Clinics (5-6:45 p.m.)
Home Run Derby (7 p.m.)
Social Mixer (7:15 p.m.)
Clinics will be led by Michigan players and coaches with tips on how to hit, throw, pitch, field and run the bases. Space is limited to 25 teams of 10; you must be 21 years or older to sign up, and the Academy suggests you bring your own glove and cleats. The registration fee is $125 per person (non-refundable) for on-field activities and includes a t-shirt. It also grants you admission to the social mixer at Jack Roth Stadium Club.
Fundraising Incentives, Michigan Gifts
$500 – Visor
$1,000 – Full zip navy hoodie
$1,500 – Personalized softball signed by Hutch
$2,000 – Run out with the players (April 29)
$2,500 – MVP locker room experience
$3,000 – Navy quilted vest (men’s or women’s)
Donations received by April 28 at 7 p.m. qualify for “awards, team/individual rankings, and day-of incentive experiences.” Prizes are set to be awarded based on fundraising totals, which will be determined the following morning.
Wearables are embroidered with the 2022 Academy logo and were donated by Valiant.
The highest individual fundraiser from this event will throw out the first pitch at Michigan’s annual Pink Game on Friday, April 29.
