TACOMA, Wash., April 4, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Sports CEO and entrepreneur Kirby Schlegel, 32, today announced his sale of the 2010 Pacific Coast League Champions, the Triple-A Tacoma Rainiers baseball team.  Under Schlegel's stewardship, he led the Franchise to record-setting attendance, a major championship win, and a milestone $30+ million stadium renovation which he secured, transforming the 51-year-old Cheney Stadium into a state-of-the-art, fan-friendly 7,500 seat venue that has taken the game day experience to a new level.  He increased revenue significantly by spearheading an initiative to increase business support and drive corporate sponsorship which resulted in the team signing several Fortune 500 companies.

In just four short seasons, Kirby Schlegel succeeded in achieving what prior team owners had pursued for decades.  He worked with the city and state governments and non-profit organizations to create an effective public-private partnership and secured a $30+ million stadium renovation.  Not only did he demonstrate a proven track record of results in this area by getting a major project to the finish line in a short timeframe, he also spearheaded the project through to completion and delivered it on-budget and on-schedule, just in time for the team's fans to experience the new stadium on Opening Night, April 15, 2011.

Kirby Schlegel purchased the team from George Foster in November 2006 and led it for four seasons, setting record breaking attendance highs in both 2009 and 2010. Under Schlegel's ownership, the Tacoma Rainiers won the 2010 Pacific Coast League Championship.  

"I am proud of what we were able to accomplish for the Tacoma Rainiers, taking the team to a championship and delivering a whole new fan experience with the new stadium. We transformed Cheney Stadium into one of the country's top fan-friendly ballparks.  In the process, we enhanced the local community," said Kirby Schlegel. "We look forward to the continued success of the team, as well as a great experience for all of the Rainiers' fans."

Kirby Schlegel was previously the President of the Texas Tornado of the North American Hockey League, winning 3 straight National Championships, and he was also the owner of the Iowa American Hockey League Franchise, the top affiliate of the Dallas Stars and the Anaheim Ducks, based out of the 15,000 seat Wells Fargo Arena.  Kirby Schlegel is actively focusing on current business investments, serving on the Executive Board of Pavestone Company, and pursuing sports and media ventures, while growing the Schlegel Sports Foundation to new heights.

Media Contact:  Holly Taylor  /  Rogers & Cowan
310-854-8115
hetaylor@rogersandcowan.com

SOURCE Schlegel Sports