EVERETT — The Force was strong at Everett Memorial Stadium Friday night.
The Everett AquaSox celebrated Star Wars Night with appearances by characters including Darth Vader, Boba Fett, Princess Leia and others from the popular film franchise by the 501st Legion. The night also included a performance by the Jet City Saber Guild and special Stormtrooper-themed jerseys worn by AquaSox players that were auctioned during the game with the proceeds benefiting Seattle Children’s Hospital.
It was an exciting event for AquaSox pitcher, and avid Star Wars fan, Anthony Misiewicz.
“We’ve got the Stormtrooper jerseys and we’re pretty pumped about that. They look pretty cool,” Misiewicz said. “I was hoping to get the helmet (too), maybe get a little laser pistol or something. Maybe my dreams will come true one day. … Maybe I’ll push for the helmets next time.”
Misiewicz, who lists Han Solo and Luke Skywalker as his favorite characters, said Star Wars was a fun event to be a part of. He was excited to see his fellow Star Wars fans dress up for Friday’s game against the Tri-City Dust Devils.
“I see all the costumes coming in so I’m pretty excited, especially with it being fireworks night too,” Misiewicz said. “Hopefully, we’ll get a lot of fans out, show off the jerseys a little bit and make some money for the hospital. It’s going to be good. I’m excited. It’s probably my favorite night we’ve had so far.
“I’ve seen every (Star Wars movie) at least 40 times. I’m a big, big fan. I can’t wait for the new ones to come out.”
Everett hitting coach Brian Hunter considers himself more of a Darth Vader fan, but also has a fondness for another, furrier character.
“I’m a Darth Vader fan for sure. And Chewbacca,” Hunter said. “I was looking for a Chewbacca outfit for New Year’s one year.”
Hunter said the event, which has occurred at several minor-league ballparks across the country, is a fun spin for a night at the stadium.
“It definitely adds to the excitement of the ballgame,” Hunter said. “As fans of the game, this is just great for it. We’re excited to be part of it for sure. It’s a big hit. That’s one thing about minor-league baseball, it interacts very well with its fans because of this type of stuff. It’s really good to see.
“We’re looking forward to coming out and pulling off a ‘W’ in our Star Wars outfits.”
There were several one-of-a-kind moments in Friday’s game, including Stormtroopers escorting the umpires onto the field, Darth Vader taking the lineup card to home plate before the game and several beloved characters coming together for the “Cha-Cha Slide,” an AquaSox classic, in the fourth inning.
“There’s a lot of stuff spinning off of the event,” said Everett general manager Danny Tetzlaff. “It’s not just that we’re wearing jerseys that look like Stormtroopers, there’s so many people that have interest in Star Wars and the whole thing: there’s clubs and groups that wanted to come out.”
The Star Wars festivities lured Lake Stevens resident Char Holmes, and her sons Nicholas and Daniel, to the game. Holmes attends a few AquaSox games a year and made sure that Star Wars Night was one of them this season.
“We love it. We love Star Wars,” Char Holmes said. “Seeing all the characters and the costumes and all the kids dressed up, it’s awesome. This is awesome.”
The event was enjoyed by fans of all ages, just like the Star Wars franchise itself.
“I think this is probably one of the best nights they’ve come up with,” Misiewicz said. “Everybody loves Star Wars. Little kids love it, the parents love it — I think this will be a really fun night.”
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