It's Time to Play Ball at Progressive Field: Fans and Players to Inaugurate Newly Re-Named Home of the Cleveland Indians
All fans to receive Progressive Field ball cap to mark the historic occasion
MAYFIELD VILLAGE, OH — March 31, 2008 — History will be made today as more than 40,000 fans show up to watch the Cleveland Indians take on the Chicago White Sox in the first game to ever be played at Progressive Field. Earlier this year, Progressive partnered with the Indians on a 16-year deal for the naming rights to the ballpark and became the Official Auto Insurer of the team.
"We're thrilled to be involved in today's Opening Day festivities," said Progressive CEO, Glenn Renwick. "Cleveland is our home, and has been for more than 70 years. So to join forces with another Cleveland institution like the Indians is really exciting."
Most excited, perhaps, are the 200 employees who will present the giant 150-foot by 300-foot American flag during the singing of the national anthem. They were selected after winning a "Why should I be chosen to hold the flag during the national anthem on Opening Day?" contest held by Progressive. Employees entered by submitting videos, essays and photos.
National Guard Cpl. André Hampton, another Progressive employee, won't even be in the country, but he will be a big part of the pre-game ceremonies. Hampton, a Progressive customer service representative, visited the park earlier in the month and, while there, recorded a short video message that will be shown just prior to opening pitch. His mother, Kim Shockley, will throw the first pitch to her "catcher," Progressive CEO Glenn Renwick.
Taking everything in from the comfort of a suite will be 13 Northeast Ohio independent insurance agents. In addition, the independent agencies that represent Progressive across the U.S. will be recognized on the Progressive Field scoreboard during the game.
And, all fans attending the game will receive a Progressive Field ball cap.
"We're really excited to open the gates and welcome our fans into Progressive Field," said Indians President Paul Dolan. "Beginning today, Indians fans will begin to create new, special memories at the ballpark that will last a lifetime."
For more information, go to www.progressivefield.com.
About Progressive
The Progressive Group of Insurance Companies, in business since 1937, is the country's third largest auto insurance group and largest seller of motorcycle and personal watercraft policies based on premiums written, and is a market leader in commercial auto insurance.
Progressive is committed to becoming consumers' #1 choice for auto insurance by providing competitive rates and products that meet drivers' needs throughout their lifetimes, superior online and in-person customer service, and best-in-class, 24-hour claims service, including its concierge level of claims service available at service centers located in major metropolitan areas throughout the United States.
Progressive companies offer consumers choices in how to shop for, buy and manage their auto insurance policies. Progressive offers its products, including personal and commercial auto, motorcycle, boat and recreational vehicle insurance, through more than 30,000 independent insurance agencies throughout the U.S. and online and by phone directly from the Company. Private passenger auto products and prices are different when purchased directly from Progressive or through independent agencies. To find an agent or to get a quote, go to www.progressive.com.
The Common Shares of The Progressive Corporation, the Mayfield Village, Ohio-based holding company, are publicly traded at NYSE:PGR.
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