We have personnel news to report: Andrew Zito is the new director of group sales for the Chattanooga Lookouts (Class AA; Southern League), while Dave Peterson is executive of the year in the summer-collegiate Futures League.
Zito is receiving a promotion from group sales manager. The Florida native began his career in sports as a food and beverage intern with the Lookouts in 2012 and will be entering his fourth season with the team.
“Being able to work his way up from an intern to the Director of Group Sales is a testament to Andrew’s hard work and dedication,” said Lookouts’ President and General Manager Rich Mozingo. “Andrew is an integral part of our organization and we are thrilled to have him on our staff.”
In his new position, Andrew will oversee every aspect of the Group Sales Department, including group outings, events, fundraisers and suites.
“I am excited to be able to be a part of this amazing staff and have the chance to step into a leadership role,” he said. “I also want to thank the Lookouts’ for this incredible opportunity.”
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Worcester Bravehearts General Manager Dave Peterson has been named the Futures Collegiate Baseball League’s 2014 Executive of the Year. The announcement was made by FCBL commissioner Chris Hall as part of the league’s annual post-season awards. The FCBL awards are voted on by personnel from each of the league’s ten member clubs.
“Dave is a proven leader and was the perfect fit for the Bravehearts in their inaugural season,” Hall said. “We look forward to his continued leadership in the league for years to come.”
Under Peterson’s leadership, the ballclub achieved the league’s best regular season record and then went on to win the league championship. The team hosted a handful of sell-out games, ranking them nationally in the top tier for attendance. Peterson also spearheaded innovative promotions that were recognized nationally, including a partnership providing free parking for fans sponsored by a local cemetery.
“My family and I are delighted that Dave is being recognized as the league’s Executive of the Year,” said Bravehearts owner John Creedon, Jr. “Dave earned this honor based on his outstanding leadership, cheerful attitude, and tireless work ethic. The fact that the Bravehearts won the league championship in our inaugural season was a testament to the tone of professionalism and respect that Dave set for the ballclub right out of the gate. Day in and day out, he ensured that the Bravehearts franchise was a winning organization both on and off the field. Dave is a class act and has demonstrated that he is among the top baseball executives around the country. In that sense, we and the community of Worcester are lucky to have him leading the Bravehearts.”