SOUTH BEND — The over 3,400 people going through the turnstiles at Coveleski Stadium Monday night enabled the South Bend Silver Hawks to accomplish an attendance milestone.

The Silver Hawks, through only 47 home dates, have already surpassed the entire 2011 attendance total.

The announced crowd of 3,474 at the Cove Monday night moved the season attendance total to 115,137.

The attendance has been improved due to a variety of reasons. New owner Andrew T. Berlin and the City of South Bend have helped make the 26 year old facility more family friendly by adding a new splash pad, playground, inflatable kid’s area, new team store, outdoor suites and a new brick facade. These new additions have made the ballpark more than just baseball, it’s now a destination.

The Silver Hawks have also made a commitment to upgrading the food selection by featuring all-beef hot dogs, pork tenderloins, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and even duck sausage.

The Cove also features some of the greatest promotions in Minor League baseball. Flatscreens and Fireworks Fridays has been a huge fan favorite as the Hawks give away nine 32-inch HD televisions every Friday home game followed by a fireworks show.

The product on the field is also something to celebrate as the Silver Hawks recently swept the Fort Wayne Tin Caps for a share of first place in the Midwest League. It’s South Bend’s third straight win making them the hottest team in the 16-club league.

Mark Haley bobble head giveaway

Single-A South Bend skipper Mark Haley, who has been at the helm of the Silver Hawks for the eight years, is finally getting a bobble head made in his image.

The two-time Midwest League Manager of the Year has compiled over 500 victories for the Hawks and his No. 51 uniform number was retired by the Silver Hawks in 2010.

The first 1,000 fans through the gates will receive a bobble head presented by Mutual Bank when the Silver Hawks take on the Peoria Chiefs Saturday.

Tickets are $12 for Premium Box, $8 for Dugout Box and $6 for Field Box. You can buy them by calling (574) 235-9988.

or at silverhawks.com.

Upcoming events

Martin Truex Jr. and his No. 56 NAPA Toyota will be on hand for NASCAR Race into the Cover Aug. 2.

Former Montreal Expo and Chicago Cub great Andre Dawson will be appearing at the Cove Aug. 12.