The Niagara Power (summer collegiate; NYCBL) is returning in 2018 to the familiar setting of Sal Maglie Stadium, but under new ownership: Niagara University, with students in the school’s sport management program running the team.
Former owner Cal Kern will be involved with the team, mostly on the player-procurement side. Other than that, the students will be running the show. From the Lockport Journal:
“It’s going to be a great opportunity for students to learn grassroots baseball club management,” said Kern, who’ll play a large part in player recruitment.
“I’m expecting bigger and better things,” he added. “(The NYCBL) welcomed us back with open arms. … I see the league swinging in a very positive direction. There’s a new commissioner (Joe Brown), and leadership is strong and progressive. I think he’ll bring the league to the next level.”
Leading the new Power is Patrick Tutka, an assistant professor at Niagara. Tutka has experience with with the Texas Collegiate League dating back to his time completing his masters and doctoral studies at Louisiana State University. He’ll have a team of approximately 25 interns assisting him for course credits.
“I’m glad it’s no longer one of the worst-kept secrets in the entire world,” Tutka joked. “We’re blessed to have the support of Niagara in the process.”
Sal Maglie Stadium was home to several Minor League Baseball teams, including a temporary gig as a Buffalo Bison (Class AAA; International League) home after the team fled War Memorial Stadium and Buffalo on a journey that saw the team play in Western New York before moving to Winnipeg (go Whips!) and eventually to the Hampton Roads area. That franchise is currently the Norfolk Tides.
Image from Wikipedia Commons under a Creative Commons license.
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