Pioneers Hire Hitting Coach
Published on May 7, 2002 under Canadian American League (Can-Am)
Elmira Pioneers News Release
The Pioneers are pleased to announce the hiring of Bill Piela (pronounced Pee-Lah) as the team's hitting coach for the 2002 season.
Piela has been managing, coaching and scouting since 1989. The Long Island, NY native has been the head coach for the Austrian National team since 1994 and led them to a Gold Medal finish at the 1997 European Championship. He has been the head coach for several different teams in the Austrian Professional Baseball League winning championships in 1992, 1993 and 1995. He also has been an instructor in the Expos organization and has worked at the prestigious Bucky Dent Baseball School in Florida. His coaching career began at Hofstra University. He played professionally in Germany and Austria until 1988.
"I have worked with Billy and I know he has the experience and talent to run a club," said Pioneers skipper Mitch Lyden. "He has helped many players in the Expos system and I look forward to his working with our guys."
Piela replaces Jarvis Brown who accepted a position with Newark of the Atlantic League.
The Pioneers have their first official practice scheduled for this Friday, May 10 at Dunn Field from 10:00 - 2:00. The public is welcome to attend.
Tickets are currently on sale for the Pioneers exhibition game vs. Brockton on Friday, May 17 at 7:05. The regular season opener is Friday, May 24 at 7:05, also against Brockton, and will feature a spectacular fireworks extravaganza following the game. Advanced sale tickets are $1 less than tickets bought the day of the game. For more information visit the Dunn Field Box Office or call the Pioneers at (607) 734-BALL (2255).
Canadian American League Stories from May 7, 2002
- Pioneers Hire Hitting Coach - Elmira Pioneers
- Pioneers First Practice Scheduled for Friday - Elmira Pioneers
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