MACOMB, Ill. - Western Illinois baseball will host its first annual 'Lead Off Dinner' on Sunday, February 10 at the Forum in Macomb. The pre-season banquet will kick off the 2013 Leatherneck Baseball season, which officially begins on February 15 as Western travels to Fayetteville, Ark. to take on preseason No. 1-ranked University of Arkansas.

"This is going to be an outstanding event for the community of Macomb, fans of Western athletics, supporters of our program and our players," said first year head coach Ryan Brownlee. "I am also excited for everyone to be able to meet Andy Benes. Besides being a great baseball person, he is one of the nicest people I have ever been associated with. For him to take time away from his family and from his busy schedule says a lot about him as a person. Even though we are using this as a fundraiser with some great auction items, it will be more of a celebration of our program and baseball in general."

The event will feature an auction, prime rib dinner and remarks from guest speaker Andy Benes. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., with the auction beginning at 4 and the dinner starting at 5.

Ticket prices for the dinner are $50 for adults and $25 for children eighth grade and under. VIP tickets will also be available for the dinner. Each VIP ticket is $75, which includes two free drink tickets, VIP seating and a meet-and-greet with Andy Benes. VIP tables for eight guests are also available for $475.

To reserve your seat at the 'Lead Off Dinner', contact Kelsey Homewood at (309) 298-1190, or click HERE to print off the mail-in form. 

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