JSBC Staff Spotlight: Kayla Reilly
JERSEY SHORE, NJ - Kayla began her BlueClaws journey as a gameday staff member in the Kids Zone in 2007. Now, she oversees the gameday staff in her role as Director of Events & Operations. A Jersey Shore native, she returned to the BlueClaws in January of 2020 after a
JERSEY SHORE, NJ - Kayla began her BlueClaws journey as a gameday staff member in the Kids Zone in 2007. Now, she oversees the gameday staff in her role as Director of Events & Operations. A Jersey Shore native, she returned to the BlueClaws in January of 2020 after a stint with the New Jersey Devils.
Previously - Rob McGillick, Ben Cecil, Garrett Herr, Craig Ebinger**,** Zack Nicol, Kevin Fenstermacher, Jamie Bertram
Q: What is your favorite BlueClaws memory?
A: With 10 years of BlueClaws memories, it is definitely tough to choose a favorite... I would have to say that the first ever Harry Potter night in 2016 has to be the winner. From the decor to the in-game entertainment, it was really incredible to see all of my muggle ideas come to life on the field! Plus, I loved hand-making wands for the weeks leading up to the night. It was super hard getting unicorn hair in them.
Q: What is your favorite BlueClaws promo night and why?
A: Harry Potter Night (Wizards & Wands) is an obvious favorite ^^^... BUT close second would have to be Pork Roll Night. Highlighting the beauty of New Jersey's finest breakfast meat.
Q: What is your favorite part of the job?
A: The best part of working in minor league baseball is the ability to be as creative as you want. You can come up with the craziest idea and if you have the right tools (or enough wooden dowels) those ideas can come to life!
Q; What is your favorite Jersey Shore landmark?
A: Barnegat Lighthouse. I can't tell you how many pictures I have of Old Barney on my phone. From every angle! From the top of the lighthouse itself (I suggest wearing good shoes if you decide to do this), from the bay across from the lighthouse, or from the ocean. Always a good Instagramable moment.
Q; What is your favorite Jersey Shore activity?
A: Boating with my favorite co-worker, Jamie Bertram! Jamie introduced me to the boat life a few summers ago and I really don't know how people get through the summer without getting out on a boat every weekend!
Q: What is your favorite Jersey Shore restaurant and meal?
A: Xina in my hometown, Toms River! Best sushi, BYOB, and a pretty decent view of the bay. What else does a girl need?
Q: If you hadn't gone into the sports/entertainment industry, what would you be doing?
A: I really fell into this industry. I went to school to be a teacher, but once I finished school I had a change of heart. I started working for the BlueClaws when I was 16 (Kids Zone Kayla) and it really taught me a lot. I had no idea that I had a passion for events until my boss at the time told me I was "good at events" and created an internship for me in 2015. It has been quite the journey since!
Q: What is your favorite thing to do away from the ballpark?
A: When the weather allows, you can find me picking up a bigger sized Rook iced coffee and sitting at the beach.
Q: How long have you lived at the Shore and what brought you here?
A: When I was 10 years old, my family moved from north Jersey to Toms River. Best thing that ever happened. I was recently living in Jersey City for 2 years, and summer was excruciating being away from the ocean. The Hudson River is nice to look at, but not nice to stay. Had to move back home to the beach and to the BlueClaws.
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