Arizona Diamondbacks awarding fans scholarships

PHOENIX — The Arizona Diamondbacks and the University of Phoenix have teamed up to award three fans with scholarships.

“Hopefully we’re able to help out a few kids and start something this year that can continue for years to come,” said D-backs first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, who is funding the scholarships.

Goldschmidt said he has two personal reasons for getting involved with the “Teaming Up for Education” program.

“Before I was drafted, I worked really hard for three years to get good grades and I wanted to finish up that last year and not have those three years not go to waste,” he said. “The second thing is that, whether you like it or not, having your college degree is going top open up a lot more doors.”

Applicants to the program must be Arizona residents. Only 150 applicants will be accepted. The deadline is July 15.