Wilmington Sharks named 2009 Coastal Plain League Organization of the Year

WILMINGTON, N.C – The Coastal Plain League announced today that the Wilmington Sharks have been selected as the 2009 CPL Organization of the Year.

“My partners, Lew and Darrell Handelsman, and I are extremely honored and excited about this award," said Wilmington owner and Director of Operations Conor Caloia. “There are many deserving teams across the league that had a great summer and we are thrilled that our efforts at the “Shark Tank” were recognized. Our season would not have been possible without the support of our great fans, sponsors and our wonderful host families. Finally, this award is a tribute to the efforts of our staff, including the best group of interns in summer collegiate baseball.”

“I would especially like to thank the City of Wilmington and Mayor Saffo, (Recreation Manager) Amy Beatty and (Facilities Manager) Billy Whitehurst for their great partnership and continued support at Buck Hardee Field,” Caloia said.

The Sharks were selected after team owners, general managers, head coaches, players, umpires, and league officials voted on various areas of concentration regarding the past season. Under the leadership of Caloia, Wilmington made a commitment to improvement in 2009, and it showed throughout the regular season. The Sharks received high grades in many different categories, including – but not limited to – concessions, CPL WebPass broadcast, after-game meals, ballpark appearance, pocket schedule, strong communication with league office, teams, and umpires; and exhibiting a true, positive relationship with the community.

Furthermore, the Sharks, along with the City of Wilmington, did a fabulous job hosting the 2009 Coastal Plain League All-Star Fan Fest and Game. From the Fan Fest that included a charity softball game between members of the Wilmington Fire and Police Departments, and ESPN-like Home Run Derby, to the eloquent All-Star luncheon, to a successful MLB Scout Day, and then a well-operated All-Star Game – the Sharks staff created an atmosphere that CPL fans, players, coaches, umpires, and staff members raved about.

“Conor and his staff went above and beyond in 2009,” said Coastal Plain League President and Commissioner Pete Bock. “Their organization ran smoothly throughout the season and truly set the bar high for any future team hosting our league All-Star Game. Conor, Avery (Robbins), JW (Cox) and their entire staff, along with the ownership of Lew and Darrell Handelsman, have done a wonderful job in helping make the Sharks a premier attraction in Wilmington. It is with pleasure that we recognize the entire Wilmington organization, as well as their fans, and the community, with the honor of being named our 2009 Organization of the Year. We look forward to continued success for the Sharks each and every year.”

The Coastal Plain League is the nation’s hottest summer collegiate baseball league, now heading into its 14th season. Featuring 14 teams playing in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia, the CPL gives college players the chance to refine their skills with wooden bats during the summer months. Players are housed with local host families for the summer and past experiences have been very positive for both players and hosts. For more information on the Coastal Plain League, please visit the league website at www.coastalplain.com.