LOU DIBELLA ANNOUNCES THE MOVE OF CONNECTICUT DEFENDERS BASEBALL FRANCHISE TO RICHMOND
(September 23, 2009) Lou DiBella has long been known for making moves in the boxing world. Now DiBella, president of DiBella Entertainment, which promotes a stable of 30+ world class prizefighters, is making a literal move in the world of baseball. DiBella, who owns the Connecticut Defenders, Double A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants, announced today he will be moving his team to Richmond, VA beginning with the 2010 season.
DiBella, who will retain his title as President and Managing General Partner, was in Richmond on Monday, and spoke to behalf of his ownership group, including co-general partners Gary Green of Alliance Baseball, LLC and Harvey Ross of Ross Holdings, LLC.
“The return of pro baseball to Richmond is something my ownership group is thrilled to be a part of,” said DiBella. “Everyone involved in this endeavor has a track record of professionalism and success, and will work tirelessly to be an integral part of the Richmond community and provide a first class baseball experience.”
Among those involved in the process are the new team of executives in Richmond that will be charged with running the club’s day to day operations. They include Chief Executive Manager Chuck Domino, Chief Operating Officer Todd Parnell, and General Manager Bill Papierniak.
Despite the Defenders’ relocation to Richmond, DiBella has vowed he will do his best to bring baseball back to the fans in Norwich.
“On behalf of the Defenders organization we want to thank our friends and fans in the region in the region for their loyal support over the years, especially this past season,” said DiBella. “It was a fantastic year on and off the field. I’m going to do everything in my power to facilitate and encourage the return of baseball to Dodd Stadium. I look forward to seeing all my friends in Norwich and the Southeastern Connecticut region at an affiliated game at Dodd Stadium in the near future.”