Jackets Get New Opponent for 2011
July 13th, 2010 by nathan joyceThe West Coast League announced that Klamath Falls, Ore., will
join the league next year.
That will bring the league to 10 teams.
You can read the news release below:
Portland, Oregon, Tuesday, July 13,
2010 – Klamath Falls, Oregon will join the West Coast League for
the 2011 season, becoming the 10th active franchise. Klamath
Falls Gems Baseball, LLC, will operate the professional,
minor-league like team, according to WCL president Ken Wilson, who
made the announcement.
Five Klamath Falls residents make up the operating group, led by
Oregon Tech basketball coach Danny Miles. Other members of
Klamath Falls Gems Baseball are former Oregon Tech athletic
director Howard Morris, and area businessmen Eric Baker, Don
Gresdel, and Brian Smith.
“We’re really excited about bringing minor-league like baseball
back to Klamath Falls,” said Miles. “This is affordable
family entertainment, and we believe the community will embrace the
Gems.”
Going with the nickname Gems is a salute to Klamath Falls three
seasons in the Far West League (1949 – 1951). The Gems will
play in Kiger Stadium, which was constructed in 1948, and served as
home for the original Gems.
“This is something we’ve needed for a long time,” added Don Ambers,
head of the volunteer Kiger Stadium Association. “Having a
team in a league of this stature really puts Klamath Falls on the
baseball map.”
There’ll be a limited number of season tickets available, and fans
can make a $25 refundable deposit for season tickets by visiting
www.klamathfallsgems.com and completing the ticket form and mailing
it along with $25 to Klamath Falls Gems, 2001 Crest Street, Klamath
Falls, Oregon 97603. Fans will be allowed to select season
ticket locations based on the order of receipt of the deposits.
“This team belongs to the people of Klamath Falls,” added
Baker. “We’ve got it going, now it’s up to everyone in town
to realize this is our town and our team.”
The team is conducting a nationwide search for a general manager
and a coach.
This Thursday at 7:05 pm Kiger Stadium plays host to a West Coast
League game between the Corvallis Knights and the Bend Elks.
All tickets are only $6. Tickets for the game may be
purchased at Western Tool, 3225 S. 6th Street, at BRD Printing, 830
Main Street in Klamath Falls or at the gate the night of the
game.
Scripps Interactive Newspapers Group
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