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Northwoods Wisconsin Rapids Rafters

Rafters Hire New Public Address Announcer for 2012

March 7, 2012 - Northwoods League (Northwoods)
Wisconsin Rapids Rafters News Release


Wisconsin Rapids, WI - March 7, 2012. The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters announced today that they have named Van Patrick Gotz as the new public address announcer for 2012. Gotz replaces Michael Steinwagner, who had been the Rafters public address voice for every game at Witter Field since the inaugural season in 2010. Steinwagner retired following the 2011 season to spend more time with his family.

Gotz brings a wealth of broadcasting background to the Rafters. He has worked for several radio stations in Central and Western Wisconsin throughout the years. Additionally, he has worked in the sports collectibles field with Krause Publications followed by a stint as Marketing Director for a Sports collectibles company in Detroit. Prior to that Gotz served as a National Sales Trainer for Thompson Newspapers in developing other staffs for retail and classified sales in Wisconsin and across the United States.

One of Gotz's greatest moments was when he was the public address announcer at the John Hancock Legends autograph session for the 2004 Major League Baseball All-Star Game festivities. At the event he had the privilege of introducing his childhood heroes including Ryne Sandberg, Ozzie Smith, Andre Dawson and Cecil Cooper. He also had the opportunity to meet and introduce the Original Ladies of Baseball, which the movie "˜A League of their Own' was based off of.

Van Patrick and his wife, Darla, currently own GL Hobby Sports and Engraving in the Rapids Mall in Wisconsin Rapids. Through GL Hobby, Gotz has worked with organizations including John Hancock Financial, Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs, KillerBees Memorabilia (Barry Bonds), the Mike Ditka Golf Tournament, and the Donald Driver Celebrity Softball Event. GL Hobby Sports and Engraving is also the Official Team Store of the Rafters.

Van Patrick, along with his wife Darla, and children Benjamin, Jakob, Sydney, and Stacy are no strangers to Rafters baseball as they have been a host family for players during the previous two seasons. Rafters Baseball has become their summer life and you can always find them at the ballpark.

"This is just another way to be involved with the Rafters family and having additional fun at the ballpark," said Gotz.

The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are members of the 16-team summer collegiate Northwoods League. The Rafters will play a 70 game schedule with 35 home games in 2012. Opening Day at historic Witter Field is scheduled for Wednesday, May 30th at 7:05 pm against the La Crosse Loggers. Reserve your 2012 ticket packages today by calling 715-424-5400, or in person by stopping by the Rafters office at historic Witter Field. The offseason office hours are Monday through Friday from 9am-5pm. For more information, visit www.raftersbaseball.com.

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