Flycatchers welcome Ebisu to Blackwell; Still need host families

The Blackwell Flycatchers Booster Club held another meeting at the Top of Oklahoma Museum’s new remodeled club room last week to officially welcome the Flycatchers’ 2025 Manager Mik Ebisu who fielded questions from the packed house of fans. 

Ebisu, a Japanese-native with a storied career playing baseball, is currently studying Sports Administration and Nutrition at the University of Houston.

Ebisu spoke at length about his love for the community in Blackwell, and his desire for the Flycatchers to work hand-in-hand with Blackwell High School’s Maroon Baseball team. 

“I have spoken with the Blackwell Maroons’ coach. That relationship is important to me,” said Ebisu, “we share a field, we share a home, that is a big deal to me. I’d love for us to attend their games as they attend ours.”

Ebisu stressed that it was important the 2025 Flycatchers be engaged in the community when possible. 

“I want my players to be rested, fed, and ready to play, but I also want our team to help out in the community whenever we can.” 

Ebisu, answering a question from Collin Zink, stated that what sets him apart from other managers is his Japanese background. 

“I have that background in Japanese baseball- baseball in Japan is still fundamentally baseball, but there’s a whole different culture around the sport there. I think I can instill that approach here, with this team.” 

General Manager Cindy Hobaugh stated that the Flycatchers were still looking for host families, and noted that changes for the 2025 season included no outside alcohol being brought into the game, stating that beer can still be purchased at the concession stand. 

Again, it was discussed that the family package is likely to be lowered for the season. 

Hobaugh proudly stated that they had sold well over 2,000 tickets last year across physical and online purchases and that they averaged an attendance of nearly 80 people per game. The goal this year is to bring that number up to 100. 

Hosting a Flycatcher offers families a unique opportunity to connect with a young athlete and gain insight into the life of a rising baseball player. Many past host families have built lasting friendships with their players and have enjoyed following their careers beyond Blackwell.

Host families are asked to provide:

A private room for the player.

Access to a washer and dryer, if possible.

Access to a bathroom and kitchen.

A safe and comfortable home environment.

Support and encouragement by attending games when possible.

As a thank-you, the Flycatchers provide host families with a special appreciation package in recognition of their generosity.

The Flycatchers’ season officially begins in May, with the team’s first home game on Wednesday, May 28, at Morgan Field against the Kansas City Hormigas, the Pecos League’s newest franchise.

The team is also looking for local announcers for home games, providing a great opportunity for community members to get involved in game-day experiences.

The 2024 season marked the Flycatchers’ biggest year yet for community involvement, with themed nights honoring teachers, little league teams, churches, and first responders.

Several local groups supported the team last year, including Blackwell Tourism, which hosted a fundraiser, and Rock & Brews Casino in Braman, among many others.

Those interested in supporting the 2025 season can purchase sponsorship packages through the Pecos League, helping cover the costs of umpires, staff, and housing. 

Direct donations can also be made to the Flycatchers Booster Club, which sponsors players directly.

Those interested in supporting the Flycatchers can join the Flycatchers Booster Club Facebook page or contact General Manager Hobaugh directly at 363-9753