Myrtle Beach Pelicans Announce Director Of Performance Athletics

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (August 24, 2026) – The Myrtle Beach Pelicans are proud to announce that Willie James has been named the Director of Performance Center Athletics. In the newly created role, James will oversee daily operations in the brand-new premier event facility “The Diamond”, as well as lead the charge on all athletic related events outside of Pelicans baseball games. This will include the booking and managing of individual cage rentals, team practices, clinics, camps, and more.

“I am honored to be named the Director of Performance Center Athletics for the Myrtle Beach Pelicans,” stated James. “This role presents an exciting opportunity to positively impact athletes and our local community. I look forward to working with our dedicated team to create an environment that fosters development, strengthens community ties, and celebrates the love of the game. The center will serve as both a training ground for athletes and a vibrant space for sports and wellness activities for everyone. Together, we will enhance the performance of players across all sports, ensuring the Pelicans remain a source of pride for Myrtle Beach.”

The Diamond at Pelicans Ballpark is a 9,380-square-foot premier facility that is designed for versatility. The multi-use venue seamlessly adapts for a variety of athletic activations as well as non-athletic events of various sizes and styles. With spaces that can accommodate groups of up to 625 people, The Diamond will support local and regional sports, events, private rentals, meetings, and more.

James is no stranger to Pelicans Ballpark. He is a former Pelican who played in Myrtle Beach from 2004 to 2006. James has also spent over a decade serving the Grand Strand. As the Owner/Director of Baseball Operations at Carolina Elite Sports he has significantly impacted the local youth baseball community. Furthermore, the Moreno Valley, CA native has previously served as a Police Officer for both Surfside Police Department and Myrtle Beach Police Department from 2015-2018.

“We are excited to welcome Willie James back to Pelicans Ballpark. As a former player for the Pelicans and an individual deeply rooted in local youth athletics, Willie is the perfect person to be the first Director of Performance Center Athletics for The Diamond,” said Pelicans Team President Ryan Moore. “While built for baseball and softball, this facility is multifunctional with the ability to host a wide array of athletic events and activities. I am excited to see this community asset be utilized under Willie’s management.”

James’s leadership skills and experience in Baseball stems from his eight-year pro career. Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 2002 MLB Draft, he spent five seasons in the Braves organization including a three-year stint with the Pelicans, the Braves High-A Affiliate at the time. During his time with the Birds’ he played in 133 games, notching 55 hits. His minor league career reached as high as Double-A Mississippi in 2006, before he was released by the Braves. He would spend the next four seasons of his pro career in the Independent Leagues circuit before retiring and beginning his coaching career in 2009. Over the last 13 years, James has played a pivotal part in the development of countless young athletes in the Myrtle Beach area.

The Pelicans are back in action at home beginning September 1 against the Columbia Fireflies (Royals) for their final series of the 2026 season. Single game tickets start at just $10 and can be purchased by clicking here. For additional information or to purchase a season membership, visit MyrtleBeachPelicans.com/memberships, call 843-618-6000, or stop by the Pelicans Front Office.