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Dambach new Frisco GM; Walker new State College GM

Frisco RoughRidersBig change for the Chuck Greenberg-owned teams: Jason Dambach is the new Frisco RoughRiders (Class AA; Texas League) GM, replaced by Scott Walker as State College Spikes (short season A; NY-Penn League) GM.

It’s a move up the ladder in teams owned by Greenberg, who along with Scott Sonju purchased the RoughRiders from Mandalay Baseball Properties in 2014. Dambach’s time with Greenberg started when he owned the Altoona Curve (Class AA; Eastern League), a stint running from 1999 to 2008 in various broadcasting and communications roles. He was Spikes GM the past six seasons.

In his new position with the Riders, Dambach will take a lead role in guiding the franchise’s marketing and promotional efforts, community presence, and all aspects of fan experience and game operations at Dr Pepper Ballpark.  He will also work with Sonju to oversee all franchise business matters, lead the club’s front office staff, and manage the relationship with the Rangers, Minor League Baseball and the Texas League.

“When Scott and I identified the personality qualities, skill level and background necessary for this important role with the franchise, Jason was our first and most obvious choice,” Greenberg said.  “I’ve worked alongside Jason for 13 seasons with our clubs in Pennsylvania and he has been a key figure in building those teams into fun, community-minded, fan-friendly and award-winning franchises.  His unique skill set will be vital in our efforts to enhance our brand throughout the Metroplex and the already-terrific experience of Riders baseball at Dr Pepper Ballpark.”

“We are thrilled to have someone of Jason’s character and diverse background within our industry on board to lead many key areas of our franchise’s operation,” Sonju said.  “The 2015 season is right around the corner and we have a number of exciting announcements forthcoming regarding the future direction of our brand and ballpark experience.  Jason’s leadership and expertise in these areas will greatly enhance their impact.”

“I’m honored that Chuck and Scott offered me the opportunity to bring my skills, experience and personality to a franchise that has enjoyed tremendous success over the past decade in a vibrant market with a stunningly-beautiful ballpark,” Dambach said.  “The passion for the franchise and the terrific work done in the past by Scott Sonju, COO Scott Burchett and the entire front office staff provides an excellent building block for some really exciting, fun and fan-friendly enhancements that are going to drive the experience of Riders baseball to an all new level both at the ballpark and in the community.”

Replacing Dambach as Spikes GM: Scott Walker. The 30-year-old previously served as Vice President of Sales and has been part of the team’s front office staff since 2009. Dan Petrazzolo, the club’s Senior Director of Ballpark Operations, has also been promoted to Assistant General Manager of Operations.

“Today’s announcement demonstrates the level of talent that exists among our Spikes front office staff and I’m proud of Jason, Scott and Dan as they take on their larger roles within the organization,” Greenberg said. “Maintaining the continuity of our staff is a vital component of our business and our customer-focused approach. Even though Jason’s day-to-day responsibilities will be in Frisco starting immediately, we both felt it was essential for him to continue his involvement in directing the Spikes so that we remain consistent with our core philosophies.

“Scott Walker was the perfect choice to assume the role of General Manager,” Greenberg added. “Scott has grown up in our organization and has been a key leader and contributor to the success of the Spikes. His added leadership duties along with the larger role taken on by Dan in the areas of ballpark and baseball operations will ensure a smooth evolution in the day-to-day management of the club.”

Walker, a graduate of Bellefonte Area High School and Lock Haven University, becomes the third general manager in the ten-year history of the Spikes. He has led the club’s sales efforts since 2011, after previously holding the titles of ticket account executive and director of ticket sales. Like Dambach, he has grown within the Greenberg Sports Group family, starting as box office intern in Altoona during the 2007 season.

“Chuck and Jason have been tremendous mentors during my career with the organization and it is an honor to have the opportunity to serve as Spikes’ General Manager,” said Walker. “These moves ensure that the direction and values of our franchise remain consistent and our focus on building relationships and serving our community is uninterrupted.”

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