Aug. 28, 2008

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. - Boston Red Sox manager Terry Francona, who has led his club to two of the last four World Series titles, will be the featured guest speaker at Carolina baseball's first annual First Pitch Banquet, set for Jan. 31, 2009, at the Carolina Club on the UNC campus.

The event will serve as the kickoff of the 2009 baseball season, which will be the first in the Tar Heels' new home - Bryson Field at Boshamer Stadium. Highlights of the memorable 2008 season, which featured a third straight trip to the College World Series will be shown, and Carolina's players, coaches and support staff will be introduced.

More information on the event will be posted on TarHeelBlue.com when available.