Meet Champ, the big-hearted black lab bringing his wagging tail and big energy to sports fans across North Carolina and around the world. Whether he’s retrieving bats at Durham Bulls Park or giving NC State Wolfpack fans a live-streamed POV of his retrieves, Champ’s a fan favorite who brings a little extra joy to game day.
Hi, I’m Champ!
You might have seen me sprinting across the field collecting bats for the Durham Bulls or the Holly Springs Salamanders, or retrieving the tee for North Carolina State Wolfpack Football. Alongside my owner and trainer, Michael O’Donnell, I’m excited to bring that extra dash of excitement (and plenty of tail wags) to game days throughout the Triangle and beyond.
Here’s my story.
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my big brother, Ripken, the beloved original retriever for the Bulls, Salamanders and Wolfpack Football. When he wasn’t making appearances for the Carolina Panthers, the Carolina Hurricanes or the 2023 NHL Stadium Series game, Ripken was featured on multiple national news programs and gained fans around the globe. He was even the subject of an Emmy-winning PBS North Carolina documentary.
Ripken sadly crossed the rainbow bridge on January 1, 2025, and his memory can never be replaced. But, someone had to keep the legend alive. It was my turn at bat.
Being a bat dog is a lot of fun, but it requires focus and lots of practice. Michael and I have been working on my skills since I was just eight weeks old.
Michael’s a former college baseball player and coach. He’s also a major dog lover and the proud owner of All-Star Dog Training in Apex and Charlotte, NC. Their dedication, commitment and love have made me into the dog I am today. It’s a large part of the reason they’ve been recognized with WRAL’s Voter’s Choice Award for “Best Pet Training Service” (2017–2025), Indy Week’s “Best Dog Trainer” Award (2023) and WRAL’s “Best Social Influencer” Award won by Ripken in 2023 and 2024 and by Champ in 2025.
Ripken gave me a legacy. All-Star Dog Training gave me the training I needed. Now, I get to make my own memories, and nothing makes me happier than bringing a smile to your face. I’m so excited for all the ball parks, big wins and new friends to come. Thanks for cheering me on.
Want to see me in action? I’m ready for my close-up.
Check out my upcoming appearances with the Durham Bulls, Holly Springs Salamanders, NC State football and other special events.
Shop all things Champ and Ripken.
Champ, Ripken and All-Star Dog Training are capturing attention near and far.
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