We have personnel news to report from the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters (summer collegiate; Northwoods League) and the Watertown Rapids (summer collegiate; Perfect Game Collegiate Baseball League).
In Wisconsin Rapids, the Rafters have have named Cullen Holt the Radio Broadcaster and Director of Media Relations for the 2019 season.
Holt, a California native, will provide live play-by-play for all 72 of the Rafters’ Northwoods League contests on WFHR AM 1320, as well as manage the Rafters’ press box and media requests. Additionally, all 36 Rafters’ home games at historic Witter Field will also be streamed with live video on the Northwoods League Portal.
Holt got his start in broadcasting as a Producer for the Inland Sports Show on Fox Sports 1350 AM in Riverside, California. Last summer, he worked as the Broadcaster and Media Director for the Souris Valley Sabre Dogs (summer collegiate; Expedition League).
Currently, Holt serves as the primary play-by-play voice for California Baptist University’s NCAA Division I soccer and water polo teams on the university and conference digital networks. He also broadcasts live high school soccer and basketball on IEMG-TV in San Bernardino, California and is a contributor for the Inland Sports TV Show.
Holt is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sports Journalism at California Baptist. He is currently the sports editor for the campus newspaper. He has broadcast six sports across multiple competition levels, covering high school, college, and minor league baseball.
“I am thrilled to be a part of such a successful organization in such a prestigious league,” Holt said, “I cannot wait to build a relationship with the Wisconsin Rapids community and Rafters fans, both in person and over the airwaves.”
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In Watertown, the Rapids have named Tony Belfiore as their Director of Ticket Operations.
Belfiore will be a familiar face to Rapids fans who saw him last summer at games and in the community. As part of his Master’s internship through SUNY Cortland, he directed all elements of the Rapids’ game presentation, which included being the on-field host. He also played an integral role in all front office duties including, but not limited to ticket sales, community appearances, and team operations.
“I enjoyed being part of the Rapids’ staff last summer and I’m thrilled to be a part of it again for the second season,” said Belfiore. “Focusing on ticket sales and group sections, I hope to help the team grow as a staple for summer activities in the North Country.”
In a press release last month, the Rapids announced new ballpark seating upgrades and new group packages that include the Pete’s Trattoria Picnic Area, an All-you-can-eat Section, Birthdays at the Ballpark, and Fundraising options for the 2019 season. These new group areas have been added with the intent of creating new unique experiences for fans while creating an improved social setting.
“Tony was a huge asset for us last year in so many ways and we know he’ll be able to expand on that coming into year two.,” said Rapids General Manager Brandon Noble. “Having someone who understands what we’re trying to build and was right there with us last summer, he’ll certainly play a key role in our success for this season.”