Jeremy Watkins Crowned Greenville Drive's Honorary 6 Millionth Fan

(Photo Courtesy of Greenville Drive)

On the night the Greenville Drive marked the milestone of its 6 millionth fan through the gates of Fluor Field, 45-year-old Jeremy Watkins of Greenville was chosen as the Honorary 6 Millionth Fan. A Drive season ticket holder and father of three boys was one of seven finalists who competed in friendly competitions throughout Tuesday’s game.

The seven contestants were selected either at random or through competitions at the Drive’s last four home games. During the July 8 game they competed in friendly on-field competitions, earning a key each time they won. During the seventh inning, contestants were given chances to see if any of their keys would unlock the Grand Prize box. On the 9th attempt to open the box, Watkins’ key turned and he immediately crouched down with fists clenched and screamed while everyone around him erupted in cheers.

Greenville Drive Owner and Chairman Craig Brown said, “The Greenville Drive congratulates Jeremy for being named our Honorary 6 Millionth Fan but tonight was really a celebration of every fan who has supported the Drive over the past 20 years. Together, we have helped transform and expand Greenville’s West End and made it the pride and joy of our community.”

As the Honorary 6 Millionth Fan, Watkins received a trip for four to Boston, including air fare, accommodations, and tickets to a Red Sox game next season. The prize package also included 2026 Greenville Drive season tickets, a first pitch opportunity at a future Drive game, a custom Drive jersey, a team signed 20th Anniversary baseball and a feature in the Drive’s “Our Home Team” ad campaign.

“I want to give a shoutout to every single person who’s ever purchased a ticket to a Drive game,” said Watkins. “This park has changed this city and we’re celebrating this park tonight.”

The six runners up each received a $100 Drive gift card and 4 tickets to next season’s opening game. The runners up were Christopher Hamilton, 10; Harvey Hewens, 66; Joe Lysea, 61; Jordan Moore Wright, 22; Danni Stoughton, 24; and Brenda Vertone, 64.

In addition to celebrating 6 million fans through the gates of Fluor Field, other 20th Anniversary highlights for the Drive this season include Craig Brown being awarded the Order of the Palmetto –– South Carolina’s highest civilian honor; the Drive and Fluor Field being featured on CBS Evening News; Fluor Field being named one of the Top 10 Single-A ballparks in the U.S. by Newsweek Magazine; and the release of a VisitGreenvilleSC commissioned study showing a $288 million economic impact over the past 10 years.

To learn more about the Greenville Drive, visit GreenvilleDrive.com.