Staff members from Affinity One Federal Credit Union are attending the Jamestown Rec. The Blue Jays’ home game on Wednesday is an opportunity to show their support for the team they have backed and funded for nearly 15 years. P-J photo by Christopher Blakeslee.

The Jamestown Blue Jays youth baseball team has strong supporters, some of whom have been fans for more than 10 years, and support the youthful ball players of the team in any way they can.

“Affinity One, a federal credit union, has been a longtime supporter of the Jamestown City Rec League’s Blue Jays for approximately 15 years,” said Denny Wilder, the veteran head coach of the Blue Jays with 36 years of coaching experience. “They are an incredible group of individuals, and without their support, our team would not be what it is today.”

At Wednesday night’s game, the number two-seeded Blue Jays, a team of 7 to 12-year-olds, faced off against the top-seeded team in their age group, drawing significant attention and support from the employees of Affinity One.

“We’re here to support and cheer for our team, the Affinity One Blue Jays,” remarked Samanta Bergey, the Chief Operating Officer of Affinity One, located at 545 E. Second St.

Reflecting Bergey’s comments, Melinda J. Best, the Chief Executive Officer of the credit union, mentioned, “We’ve been backing this team for approximately 15 years. It’s incredibly enjoyable, and simply coming out to see the kids compete is fulfilling on its own.”

According to Wilder, the credit union staff is simply the best – they make life very easy for the coaches, allowing them to focus on baseball and worry less about fundraising.

“They (Affinity One) truly are exceptional,” he remarked. “Each year, they cover the cost of our uniforms, and whenever we need assistance, they are always there for us.”

Bryce Dieter, father of two Blue Jay players, John and Jude Dieter, expressed, “We have been with the team for three years, and I believe we still have another eight to ten years ahead of us, especially with two more future Blue Jays advancing through the ranks.”

In a story published by the Post-Journal on August 24, 2024, it was reported that Dieter’s third son, who was undergoing treatment for a type of pediatric cancer, had his name embroidered on the team’s jersey. This gesture was made alongside the name of a father belonging to one of the coaches, who was also facing a battle with cancer.

“We are all part of one great family here –players, parents, and every dedicated employee from Affinity One alike,” Wilder exclaimed, his voice brimming with warmth. “Each of us plays a vital role in nurturing and strengthening this family bond, ensuring that our collective spirit flourishes.”