We have a new GM for the Sioux Falls Canaries (independent; American Association): VP of Sales Matt Ferguson has been promoted.
Ferguson began his career with the Canaries in 2010 as a sales executive and was promoted to director of ticket sales in 2012. In 2013, Ferguson was named vice president of sales, a position he holds for both the Canaries and Stampede hockey club. Under his guidance, both clubs have seen record attendance and ticket sale growth over the last two seasons.
“We are thrilled to have Matt as general manager of the Canaries,” said Canaries CEO/President Tom Garrity. “His work ethic and demeanor make him a perfect fit for this position and we know he will help make us a better organization on and off the field.”
The club also announced today that Duell Higbe has been named assistant general manger of baseball operations and Brita Bragnalo as assistant general manger of business operations.
Higbe is in his second season with the Stampede after working last season in stadium operations. The Austin, MN native has an impressive baseball background that includes playing at Iowa Western Community College where he helped his squad to the Junior College World Series in 2008. That season he led the team in hitting with a .435 average and was teammates with current Canaries relief pitcher Kirk Clark.
Bragnalo is in her first season with the Canaries and also works as the hockey operations administrator. A native of Monticello, MN, Bragnalo played Division I college hockey at St. Cloud State University. She served as captain of the Huskies her junior and senior seasons and is tied for fifth all-time with 145 career games played. She is also the wife of Stampede assistant coach, Christian Bragnalo.
“Duell and Brita have also done outstanding work for our club since they started,” Garrity added. “We are fortunate to have all three of them working for our organization and feel they make a perfect team that will help make us successful.”
Ferguson replaces Nate Welch as GM. Also departing the Canaries: broadcaster Scott Beatty.
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