Dubois County Bombers under new ownership, new coach and new general manager

A group of local business-owners and residents has purchased the Dubois County Bombers and announced big changes for the local wooden bat baseball team.

Preparation for the Dubois County Bombers 2013 season is in full swing, both on and off the field. As players are being recruited, the team is also implementing major changes beyond the dugout. These changes include new ownership, new league membership, and a new coach and general manager.

On December 1, the newly formed Dubois County Baseball, LLC. will take over leadership of the Bombers. The ownership is completely made up of local businesses and individuals who are dedicated to providing affordable family entertainment while capitalizing on the touristic assets of historic League Stadium as the Bomber’s home field for years to come.

“League Stadium has such a rich history and is known as a location for the popular 1990 movie ‘A League of Their Own,’ starring Tom Hanks, Geena Davis, Rosie O’Donnell, and Madonna. The stadium is located in the middle of a beautiful City Park and is the perfect setting to enjoy America’s favorite pastime in a family-friendly atmosphere,” said Mike Uebelhor, Bombers managing partner.

In addition to new ownership, the Bombers also gained a new coach, Wes Fink, and general manager, Skip Kruger.

Fink was a local favorite as a player for the Bombers during the 2006-2009 seasons. He also played for the University of Southern Indiana as shortstop and captained the team to the Division II National Championship title in 2010. He is married to Abby (Leistner) Fink of Holland and resides in Huntingburg.

“I am so grateful for the opportunity to coach, especially for a program that I was so fortunate to be a part of as a player,” said Fink. “I’ve got big shoes to fill.”

Kruger is a Huntingburg Native and has years of experience on the staff of DC United, a major league soccer team based out of Washington D.C. He is married to Susan (Menke) Kruger and will be permanently relocating to Dubois County.

“It is such an honor to be named general manager, especially during this exciting time preparing for the 2013 season,” said Kruger. “These changes and future prospects will surely enhance the program and the fan experience.”

Fink and Kruger will begin their new positions December 1.

As a result of winning the 2012 Western Division of the twelve-team Prospect League, the Bombers will become the sixth affiliated team of the Ohio Valley Summer Collegiate Baseball League. Established in October 2010, the Ohio Valley League follows official wooden-bat rules and guidelines. The Bombers will join the Madisonville Pirates, Fulton Railroaders, Owensboro Oilers, Marion Bobcats, and Hoptown Hoppers, all located in Kentucky.

“The close proximity of the Ohio Valley League teams will not only cut down the transportation and lodging expenses, but will also create a natural rivalry with teams such as Owensboro and Madisonville,” said Kruger.

In an effort to fill the stadium and make the games family-affordable, both game-day and season tickets costs will be lowered. Prices are expected to be published in a mailer by the end of the year to season ticket holders and radio and newspaper outlets. Fans of all ages will experience new, exciting game-day entertainment including fireworks and contests.

“It is our intent to showcase the talents of top collegiate baseball players hoping to be noticed by professional scouts, while providing affordable family fun and entertainment,” said Uebelhor. “League Stadium field was the envy of all the teams in the Prospect League last year, and soon to be enjoyed by the new teams in the Ohio Valley League.”

League Stadium will also be undergoing improvements through the efforts of the City of Huntingburg Parks Department and Dubois County Tourism Commission. After introducing the retro theme to reflect scenes from “A League of Their Own” in 2012, including throwback uniforms, signage, and stadium tours, a new gift shop will open to offer both Bombers and League Stadium memorabilia. Holiday World passes will also be available. Gift shop hours and tours will also be available to the public throughout the week.

To stay updated on the latest news and events for the Dubois County Bombers, be sure to like the Dubois County Bombers Facebook page or visit their website at DCBombers.com.