We don’t often cover managerial appointments, but this one is worth noting: Steve Shirley is taking the reins of the Sussex County Miners (independent; Can-Am League) this season.
Why is this worth noting? Shirley is a winner, and Shirley knows how to promote a team both on and off the field. Case in point: Shirley served eight seasons at the Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association), where he won two league championships and was twice named team manager of the year. We don’t think it’s a coincidence that these seasons were among the most successful in Canaries history, both on the field and at the box office
“Steve Shirley has the talent, experience and passion for building and nurturing baseball teams, with a keen understanding of how much great baseball can mean to a community,” said Miners GM Dave Chase. “Steve’s enthusiasm for creating a baseball culture in Sussex County is contagious. We are delighted to be bringing him on board to lead the Miners.”
“The return of baseball to Sussex County is a great thrill and challenge. We are assembling a team that will deliver the best in competitive play and excitement, and we will start to announce our signings over the next couple of weeks,” Shirley said. “Fans across the area – in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania – will soon have the opportunity to enjoy live high-caliber baseball very close to home.”
Chase and Shirley will have their challenges, as both independent and affiliated baseball teams have struggled at Skylands Stadium, located in rural Sussex County in Frankford Township, (Augusta) New Jersey. Besides the expertise of Shirley and baseball vet Chase (Memphis Redbirds and other MiLB teams), they’ll have a renovated facility to attract fans: all concessions, restroom facilities and seating areas, as well as the playing field and clubhouse have been upgraded. A new 5,000-square foot pavilion has been erected down the first-base line.
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