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USSF D-2 Rochester Rhinos

Rhinos Hire Bob Russell as Executive VP

August 4, 2010 - U.S. Soccer Federation D-2 (USSF D-2)
Rochester Rhinos News Release


ROCHESTER, NY - Rochester Rhinos Owner Rob Clark announced on Wednesday that the club has hired Bob Russell to fill the club's new Executive Vice President role. Russell's responsibilities will include overseeing the business and day-to-day operations of the organization.

Russell served as the Rhinos Vice President of Operations from August, 1996 through December, 1999. Under Russell's guidance the Rhinos developed into one of the league's premier franchises off the field, leading the league in attendance each season and winning the USL-1 Organization of the Year Award in 1997. In addition, the club increased its sponsorship sales revenue 150% in his three years and was awarded the Best Marketing Theme Award from Soccer Business International for his concept of "SoccerTown USA."

"It's a thrill to be back with the Rhinos" said Russell. "I am looking forward to working with Rob Clark, Pat Ercoli and the staff to help continue to build the franchise into one of the top organizations in the country. Our community has always embraced this team and the tradition will continue."

Since leaving the Rhinos after the 1999 season Russell has successfully led some of Rochester's most prominent not-for-profit organizations. Most recently Russell served as the Executive Director of The Little Theatre. There he led the day-to-day operations of the organization which consists of five independent movie theatres and a café/art and performance area. The theatre was awarded the 2009 Organization of the Year Award by the Arts Council of Greater Rochester and his programs and initiatives increased grant support, revenue and audience attendance each year for the organization.

"We are excited to have Bob as part of our organization" said Rhinos General Manager Pat Ercoli. "Bob was a big part of the Rhinos success during our championship seasons of the late 1990's. He brings a successful track record working with the Rochester community and I think that by having Bob in the fold this is more proof that we are moving in a positive direction."

From August, 2000 to June, 2006 he led the marketing and sales operations of Geva Theatre which achieved its highest number of subscribers in its history and consistently broke single ticket sales revenues during his tenure.

"Bob brings with him a wealth of experience and connections to the Rochester community" said Rhinos owner Rob Clark. "His extremely successful marketing career will play a vital role in the Rhinos operations as well as operations of the stadium. His experience in starting the Rhinos franchise will play a pivotal role in our quest to bring lacrosse back to Rochester."

In addition to the Rhinos Russell also has professional sports experience working for the Buffalo Sabres (1987-1992) and Rochester Americans organizations (1983-87).

While with the Sabres, Russell was part of the management team that helped start the Buffalo Bandits lacrosse club in 1991.



U.S. Soccer Federation D-2 Stories from August 4, 2010


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