IronPigs introduce their 'voice'
The Catasauqua native captured the highly-coveted position following a final audition that featured nine aspiring announcers showcasing their abilities at Starter's Riverport in Bethlehem on Wednesday night.
"I was thrilled to hear the news as this whole process has been exciting for me as well as for my family and friends," said Chorones. "I was trying not to get too excited throughout the process, but kept in the back of my mind how honored I would be to become the first Voice of the IronPigs. Now I'll look forward to growing with a brand new organization."
Among the finalists were a pair of teachers, a vice principal, a real estate employee, a postal worker and four with broadcasting or media professions.
"This was an incredibly difficult process due to the amazing quality of the candidates and how exceptional our finalists performed," said IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes. "We debated late into the night yesterday and several more hours today in order to reach a decision. Ultimately, we decided Tim best represented the combination of elements we were looking for in a P.A. announcer, such as voice quality, enthusiasm and adaptability."
Chorones earned an Education degree from West Chester University after graduating from Catasauqua High School in 1999. He has served as the general public address announcer for varsity boy's and girl's basketball games at Catasauqua since 2004. He is also currently enrolled for a master's degree in Institutional Technology at Wilkes University (Wilkes-Barre, Pa.).
The IronPigs auditioned 60 candidates on November 7 seeking the inaugural Voice of Coca-Cola Park. The position received incredible interest with the team receiving more than 200 submissions and requests for the position.
Of those that auditioned earlier this month, 20 boasted public address experience on the scholastic, collegiate or professional level with both local and national importance. Six had play-by-play or public address experience at the minor league baseball level, including Triple-A. Also among that group were the former or current public address announcers in various sports for Muhlenberg College, Lafayette University, Penn State and Arizona State. Finally, numerous applicants had garnered experience with area high schools and local teams such as the Ambassadors, Catz, Clippers, Valley Dawgs and Outlawz.
Fans will get their first chance to hear Chorones at the IronPigs home opener at Coca-Cola Park on April 11, 2008, against the reigning International League champion Richmond Braves. Season tickets, mini plans and group tickets for the inaugural season are on sale now and can be purchased by visiting www.ironpigsbaseball.com or by calling (610) 435-3001.