NEW NAVIGATORS OWNERS HEADED BY PROMINENT BOXING PROMOTER LOU DIBELLA ENSURE "KNOCK-OUT" SEASON 2005
(Norwich, Conn.) - An investor group led by prominent boxing promoter and entertainment entrepreneur Lou DiBella of DiBella Entertainment has purchased the Norwich Navigators Double-A baseball team. DiBella is the managing partner and new President of the Norwich Navigators, the San Francisco Giants Double A Eastern League affiliate. The professional baseball club officially introduced its new ownership at a news conference yesterday (Tuesday, April 5 at 5:30 pm) at Dodd Stadium in Norwich, CT. The purchase was completed in time for the Navigators 2005 Home Opener on April 14th.
The announcement was the centerpiece of the Navigators Annual Spring Fan Fest, an opportunity for the public and media to meet this year's team.
DiBella promises many changes for the upcoming season, most importantly, an increased community presence. The new Navigator "Fan Van" will be visible throughout Southern and Eastern Connecticut, distributing orange Gator Aid Bands as part of a season-long promotion to generate support for Connecticut's hometown team.
Aside from showing support for professional baseball in the region, the purpose of The Gator Aid Band campaign is two-fold: fans wearing bands to Dodd Stadium are eligible for discounted food items, merchandise, tickets and other Navigator prizes. Secondly, fans sporting bands within the community may be spotted by the "Fan Van" and win tickets or other great giveaways.
DiBella also plans to increase the entertainment value at Dodd Stadium, including a concert series before select games, guest celebrity appearances and fun promotions that will focus on raising the energy level and overall excitement at the ballpark on a nightly basis.
The Navigators are the Double-A Affiliate of the San Francisco Giants celebrating their 11th season in Connecticut. Tickets for all home games, including the home opener on Thursday, April 14th versus the Reading Phillies at 6:35 p.m. are now available by calling 860-887-7962 or by visiting www.gators.com. Group outings, corporate picnics and skybox rentals are also currently on sale. In addition, appearances by both team mascots, Tater the Gator and Rally the Raven, are available for various children's events.