Hooks name groundskeeper
With nearly 10 years experience in grounds work, Spillman comes to the Hooks from the West Tennessee Diamond Jaxx, Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, where he served as Head Groundskeeper since 2002. Prior to his stint with the Diamond Jaxx, Spillman was Head Groundskeeper for the Altoona Curve, Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates, for three years.
"I don't think there is anyone out there that is more talented or that has a better resume than Justin," said Hooks President J.J. Gottsch. "We knew it was going to take someone special to fill Brad (Detmore's) shoes, but I think Justin will be more than capable." A graduate from Lewis and Clark College in Lewiston, Idaho, Spillman has spent time at every level of professional baseball including major league experience at Fenway Park, RFK Stadium, and Busch Stadium.
"I was astounded when I heard the news. It's going to be such a thrill to have so many fans at the game who really appreciate your work. Ryan-Sanders Baseball has a great family oriented feel and I'm thrilled to be a part of the organization," said Spillman on his new position. Spillman has been a part of several award winning fields including Field of the Year for his work at Roger Dean Stadium (1998) in Jupiter, Florida and Blair County Ballpark in Altoona (2001). In 2003, Spillman was involved in field preparation for the Major League All-Star Game at US Cellular Field in Chicago.
The Hooks have been without a Head Groundskeeper since Brad Detmore was promoted to Triple-A Round Rock in May. Assistant groundskeepers Garrett Reddehase and Richard Olivarez oversaw the maintenance of Whataburger Field following Detmore's departure.
"We couldn't be any happier with the job the entire grounds crew has done over the past two weeks. Garrett and Richard have provided some valuable leadership for the interim basis, and will be the backbone to the new crew Justin puts together," stated Gottsch.
In 2005, Whataburger Field was recognized as both Texas League and Double-A Field of the Year. Whataburger Field was also featured in Baseball America's 2006 "Great Parks" calendar