(SAN DIEGO) The San Diego Padres honored the life and legacy of PLNU Athletic Director Ethan Hamilton on Saturday at Petco Park.
Hamilton, who
tragically passed away last month after a short battle with cancer, was recognized prior to the Padres' game against the Colorado Rockies for his lasting impact on the San Diego sports community.
The Padres honored PLNU's longtime Athletic Director with a graphic on the video board, a reading over the PA and a moment of silence in front of an announced crowd of over 44,000 people.
Eli Hamilton, son of Ethan, then threw out the ceremonial first pitch, confidently stepping on the mound to deliver a strike to PLNU Baseball Head Coach Justin James who was catching.
Prior to the game, the Hamilton family met with several members of the Padres organization, including star players Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr. and Joe Musgrove.
Padres Pitching Coach Ruben Niebla also chatted with Eli for several minutes before his ceremonial first pitch.
Eli's pinpoint pitch started off what would be a stellar day for the Padres' pitching staff, who limited the Rockies' offense in a 3-2 victory for the hosts.
A Celebration of Life for Hamilton was held on July 28.
