Everyone knows the Astros, at least everyone in Austin and in Texas. They are the major league baseball team of Texas, hitting homeruns and striking visiting players out whenever possible, from their home-base of Houston. While they may not be as nationally known as the Yankees, the Dodgers or the Red Sox, they are still a baseball force to be reckoned with, and part of that can be owed to a team within Austin, a minor league team known as the Round Rock Express.

The Round Rock Express is the minor league affiliate of the Houston Astros. For the past 10 years, the team has dedicated itself to commemorating America's favorite pastime in a fun, safe and healthily competitive manner. The best in minor league staff are employed to take care of the fans, the sponsors and the players. Tickets are affordable, so whole families can go on a regular basis, and players are regularly given the opportunity to play to the best of their ability and advance in an appropriate manner.

In addition to entertaining the community, the team gives back as well. An example of this is the Miracle League, a league that helps and encourages children with disabilities to play ball - a feat that for many is nothing short of a true miracle. It all began in 2005 with the donation of $5,000, proceeds raised in an Express Charity Bowling Tournament. Then, in collaboration with the Nolan Ryan Foundation, $250,000 more was added, and the Miracle League was able to build a facility for its games and events. Now several seasons in, the Miracle League is an inspiration to all Austin citizens. It is a display of what can be accomplished with enough effort, time and caring.

The Round Rock Express has also established a Baseball Camp, led by former Texas Longhorn and Major League player Spike Owen. Owen was a Team USA Gold Medal Winner in World Games and Intercontinental Cup (1981); he was the University of Texas All American in 82; played shortstop in the Major League for 14 years; and coached baseball from 2002 to 2006. Every year he and the Round Rock Express offer an Overnight Camp, a Full-Day Camp and three Half-Day camps. Attendees are taught how to hit, field, throw, base run and pitch. It is an invaluable experience for baseball fans everywhere.

In keeping with the tradition of education, although in a more scholarly than sports manner, the Round Rock Express has established several school-based programs. The Grand Slam Attendance Program rewards students who achieve perfect attendance during the final grading period of the year. Open to children K-5, the honorees receive four complimentary tickets to an Express game. For those who earn straight As in the final grading period, the All-Star Honor Roll Program also awards four complimentary tickets. And in an effort to promote literacy, the Round Rock Express has created a reading program in which elementary and middle school students take part in a 10-week summer reading program.

That is just the tip of what the Round Rock Express does. It is truly a team that gives back to its community, offering not just baseball and fun, but education and values, as well.

For more information on the Round Rock Express, visit www.roundrockexpress.com.