St. Paul Saints Open Academy In Lakeville

One of the most successful independent franchises, the St. Paul Saints, are now expanding their reach into the sporting community.

Over 90 players have signed with MLB franchises since the Saints inaugural season in 1993, due in large part to the players skill and the tireless work ethic of the coaches and field managers.

Being an established franchise with the tools to cross-promote through their ability to put a successful product on the field, while gaining a strong support system in their community, has now giving them an opportunity to embark on this new undertaking.

A way to give back to the fans the way they have supported them through all the ups and downs.

“This is a terrific opportunity for our ball club,” said Derek Sharrer, Saints EVP and General Manager. “The Academy will provide us with the opportunity to expand our involvement in area youth sports development and to become an active, year-round member in the South Metro community.”

The all ages facility and 32,000 square-foot complex has a 15,000 sq ft. field house with retractable field turf. The academy is to be used for individual lessons, group sessions, themed parties and league play. Members will be allowed scheduled batting cage access and field-house access on a monthly basis.

The academy’s coaching staff will consist of Saints Manager and former major league pitcher George Tsamis, Saints hitting coach and former Colorado Rockies prospect Lamarr Rogers. Other staff members include former and current Saints players.

In other Saints news, they were named the 2009 American Association Organization of the Year. To read more about it, click the link here .

Devon is the founder of The GM’s Perspective . Currently, Devon is a Branch Manager at a financial institution in Southern Ontario Canada.  He can be reached at [e-mail] or [e-mail]