Getting To Know... Joe Ayrault

Hey, Brewers fans. I'm Kristina Serafin, a Communications and Public Relations major at Carroll College planning to graduate in May. I'm currently an intern for the Helena Brewers. In this position, I have the opportunity, and the pleasure, of talking to the new coaching staff. Stay tuned this off-season for my profile series with returning and new coaches and maybe some former Helena Brewers players. As I get to know them, you can too.

Joe Ayrault is the new Helena Brewers manager. He began his professional baseball career in 1990 with the Atlanta Braves organization and made it up through the minor leagues. He was a coach for the Rangers and Reds before signing on as manager with the Brewers. He began managing in his hometown of Sarasota.

Kristina: How did you come into your position?

Joe: I began as a hitting coach for the Rangers and the Reds. People have always said that I would end up managing baseball. I gained experience by learning from managers as a coach and picking apart their brain. I learned a lot, not only from managers, but from other coaches as well. People were right, it's a great job.

K: What do you like about working in minor league baseball?

J: Well, I grew up being young and loving baseball. I love the grind, the competition, the players, and most importantly, the fans. I love to teach and learn, not only from the other coaches, but from the players as well. Managing a team is even better; it allows more opportunity for teaching and learning.

K: What are you looking forward to during spring training?

J: I am looking forward to getting to know the players, especially the young players, brand new to professional baseball. I want to know the championship caliber players, not just the big leaguers. I am also looking forward to getting to know the coaches part, too.

K: Do your wife and children enjoy baseball and attending the games?

J: Oh yeah, they love it! Well, this essentially will be my son's first experience because he is two. However, my daughter loves it and so does my wife. My kids are always running around the house swinging bats around. Baseball is a part of our entire family and we couldn't have it any other way.

K: How do you and your family feel about coming to Helena?

J: We are thrilled! We are leaving a few weeks early so we can visit all the sites and beauty Montana has to offer. We want to have a vacation before the mini camp begins. My wife is a schoolteacher so I believe this job in Helena to be perfect for me; the shorter season allows for my family to be a part of it without conflicting with my wife's job. It is a win-win situation!

K: What do you like to do on your off days?

J: There are many things I like to do on my off days. I've been at home for the last three years and I'm beginning to get a bit stir crazy. Although I like to golf and camp, I am an avid hunter and fisherman. I am excited to see what Montana has to offer me in those areas. My number one priority is spending time with my family, otherwise I can be found with either a bow or a fishing pole.

K: Are you excited to meet the dedicated Helena Brewers fans?

J: Oh, definitely! Baseball is all about the fans! There can be no baseball without the fans; it is all about them! I like to mingle with the fans before the final stretch, sign autographs, and connect with the community. I am all about the community, not only the baseball community but also the Helena community in general. I am definitely looking forward to meeting all of the Helena Brewers fans.

K: What is some advice you would give those who wish to follow in your footsteps, whether it is to play or coach professional baseball?

J: Play hard. If you are young, the most important thing is to have fun. In having fun you will find your passion. With this passion, give everything you've got and then some. That is what I tell my kids. Be dedicated to yourself and your passion.

K: Thanks again Joe for doing this interview and letting all the fans and myself get to know you a little better. As for a final thought, is there anything else you would like the Helena Brewers community to know about you, perhaps something you have not touched on quite yet?

J: I am looking forward to the upcoming season. I will enjoy watching and helping the Helena Brewers develop even more, and win! I am very competitive and I play hard. Most of all, I am excited to give the fans what they came for, some good baseball stuff. I am intrigued and excited by "Mustache Monday." I have heard a lot of great things about it and I can't wait to see what it's all about!