Season Preview for 2018 Waynesboro Generals
The Generals are coming off a 2017 season that saw them earn a record of 20-22, good enough for third place in the South division. After a two game sweep of Harrisonburg in the first round of the playoffs the Gens were ousted by eventual VBL Champions, the Charlottesville Tom Sox. With the new operation team of Brent Ward and Kathleen Kellett-Ward, along with new head coach John Jeanes from Chipola College in Florida, the new-look Generals will look to compete for the organization’s 4th VBL Championship in the last 10 years, and 7th in its history.
The Wards feel confident that the Generals will have a terrific season with their new coach. “John has a diverse and successful record in playing, coaching and recruiting baseball,” said the Wards. “We are very excited to see how he inspires our team!”
Coach Jeanes shares that same excitement and eagerness. “I’m extremely excited to accept the position as Manager for the Waynesboro Generals. It is a honor to be a part of a first class organization,” Jeanes stated. “I hope to lead these young men in the right direction not only to make them better baseball players on the field, but better human beings off.”
With an off-season filled with tweaks and changes, the Generals welcome back two returners from last year’s squad.
Tyler Thompson, from Knoxville, Tennessee, and Austin Peay State University, returns to the Generals this summer after a stellar 2017 campaign where he posted a 2.97 ERA in 13 appearances. “I’m super excited to come back to Waynesboro,” said the 6-6 right-hander. “Last year was an awesome experience that came up too short. I’m excited to be back with new teammates and blessed to be staying with the Hendersons once again. I have the best 50/50 stretch in the league, so make sure you come out for the raffle! Go Gens!”
Patrick O’Shea, the Concord, California, native has come back for another year in Waynesboro. Pat hails from St. Mary’s College in Moraga, California, and was a mainstay in the General bullpen, throwing 26 innings in 11 appearances. “I came back this summer because of how much fun I had last year,” said O’Shea. “I had a great experience, and one of the best summers of my life. I can’t wait to get back to Kate Collins field!”
General Manager, Tyler Hoffman, says he’s excited for another summer with Waynesboro. “We feel as if we’ve put together a great new staff and a roster that will represent this community well,” said Hoffman. “We will strive to not only put a premier product on the field, but give everyone affordable, family-friendly entertainment. We can’t thank this community enough for giving these players an opportunity.” The Gens open up Friday night June 1st in Covington. The home opener is Saturday night June 2nd at 7 pm against the reigning VBL champions, Charlottesville Tom Sox.
The Generals invite you, your family, and friends to Kate Collins field for a fun-filled summer!
Waynesboro Generals Acquired by Long Time Supporters
Brent Ward and Kathleen Kellett-Ward Acquire Local Baseball Team
Waynesboro, Virginia
Supporting the Shenandoah Valley community is something the Ward family gets fulfillment from, so when given the opportunity to acquire their beloved Waynesboro Generals Baseball Team, they jumped at the chance.
Born and raised in Waynesboro, Brent Ward has baseball in his blood. His grandfather spear-headed the building of Wayne Hills Baseball Field and organized the North Little League. Brent’s father played and then coached for many years. Brent and his brother both played baseball since they were kids. Brent’s wife, Kathleen Kellett-Ward, moved to Waynesboro VA in 2002 and now has the Top Selling Real Estate Team in the Shenandoah Valley. She has been very active in community, supporting local businesses, helping local charities and providing opportunity for over 12 years.
The Wards have a history with, and a passion for, supporting the Waynesboro Generals. Two years ago, they volunteered to be the host family for a member of the team. One member became two and soon after became four. “It was a terrific experience for our family – especially our kids,” said Kathleen Kellett-Ward. “ We stay in touch with all of our players to some degree and especially one, Zach Sterry who was drafted shortly after he left here, to the Red Sox. They have become extensions of our family and we have thoroughly enjoyed it.”
“My husband and I have enjoyed our past experience with the team and we see the potential for the growth in the future,” said Kellett-Ward. “It’s an amazing organization for our local community to rally behind.” College students from all over the country are able to experience the unique, small town of Waynesboro and enjoy the experience and the Wards get fulfillment from impacting today’s youth in a positive way.
Brent Ward and Kathleen Kellett-Ward look forward to a great season and a successful future with the Waynesboro Generals. Waynesboro Amateur Athletics Inc is a 501(c)(3) corporation. Your donation is greatly appreciated. Visit waynesborogenerals.net for more information and game schedules.
