Cape Cod League Executive Nancy Nickerson Named as DK Baseball’s July Legacy Edition Honoree
Orleans, Massachusetts — DK Baseball Clinics (DKBC) has named Orleans Firebirds executive Nancy Nickerson as the July 2026 Legacy Edition Tribute Bat Program Honoree, recognizing her more than 24 years of dedicated service to the Cape Cod Baseball League. Nickerson becomes the 22nd Legacy Edition recipient (LE #022), honored for her extraordinary contributions as a host family leader, housing coordinator, and assistant general manager. Her steady, heartfelt commitment has shaped generations of young athletes and strengthened the fabric of Cape Cod summer baseball.
Nancy’s involvement with the Firebirds began through her family. Her daughter served as a student trainer, and her son interned with the general manager. What began as a way to stay connected during her summers as a teacher soon grew into a calling. In her second year, she began hosting players including former Cincinnati Reds catcher Ryan Hanigan who returned this summer as the team's hitting coach. She later stepped into the role of Housing Coordinator, personally securing homes for every player and encouraging friends and neighbors to serve as host families.
Over more than two decades, Nancy has served the Firebirds in nearly every supportive capacity. Her home has welcomed numerous players she affectionately calls her “summer sons.” She assists with travel arrangements, invests deeply in each player’s personal growth, and maintains lasting relationships long after the season ends—attending weddings, traveling to watch college games, and staying connected as players move through life.
Her leadership and hospitality have become defining elements of the Firebirds experience. Nancy believes host families are essential to the team, saying, “Without them, we wouldn’t be putting the team on the field.”
Nancy’s service extends beyond baseball. She devoted 37 years to teaching students with special needs, bringing the same patience, dedication, and belief in each child’s potential that she brings to the ballpark. Her approach remains consistent: meet people where they are, take time to understand them, and help them grow one step at a time.
“Nancy is deeply involved with many aspects of the Orleans Firebirds and their players,” said Tim McCullough, DKBC Legacy Edition Program National Advisor. “What stands out is how she embraces the players she hosts like family. She builds lasting relationships that stay with them long after they’ve moved on from the Cape Cod League.”
Mischeal Steinert, DKBC Communications Director, added: “Nancy has strengthened the game by strengthening the people within it. Her service is humble, steady, and deeply personal. She embodies the values of the Legacy Edition Program—quiet dedication, meaningful service, and a lasting impact on players, families, and the community.”
Donald Clemmenson, President of the Orleans Firebirds, shared: “Nancy is an energetic and dedicated team player for the Orleans Firebirds. She consistently does whatever is needed to support the team and ensures the work is done well.”
Nancy describes herself as “just one tiny puzzle piece in this big game” and believes “it takes a village” to support the players and the organization she loves.
The Legacy Edition Tribute Bat Presentation will take place Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Eldredge Park in Orleans, Massachusetts. The presentation will be delivered by DKBC Team Advisor Tim McCullough, joined by Firebirds President Donald Clemmenson and members of the organization.
About the DKBC Legacy Edition Tribute Bat Program the DKBC Legacy Edition Tribute Bat Program honors individuals whose character, service, and dedication have strengthened baseball at the community level. Honorees exemplify integrity, perseverance, humility, commitment, and a genuine heart for the game. Since its launch, the program has honored coaches, groundskeepers, mentors, host families, volunteers, and leaders, whose quiet contributions create a lasting impact on players, families, and the traditions of hometown baseball. With this presentation, the Legacy Edition Program concludes its 2026 tribute tour, following earlier events in Kansas, Texas, and Massachusetts.
Media Contact Mischeal Steinert Communications Director, DK Baseball Clinics mischeal@dkbaseballclinics.com