Stefanie Brown steps down as River Bandits GM
The Quad Cities River Bandits announced on Tuesday that Stefanie Brown has stepped down from her role as general manager of the Class-A Midwest League club, and Main Street Baseball is immediately beginning a search for a new River Bandits general manager.
Due to urgent family responsibilities that require significant attention at this time, Brown asked the River Bandits to reduce her role to give her more time to care for her family. Following her first year as general manager, fifth with the River Bandits and ninth season in minor league baseball, Brown will continue with the River Bandits in a substantial, but yet-to-be-determined role.
"Stefanie Brown is an incredibly valuable part of the River Bandits and the Quad Cities community, and one of my favorite people," said team owner Dave Heller. "She is immensely talented and will have as much of a role with the River Bandits organization as she wants, for as long as she wants."
Brown has been an integral part of the River Bandits' day-to-day operation since joining the organization in December 2007 as director of community and client relations. She was promoted to assistant general manager after one season. In that role, she oversaw Modern Woodmen Park's suite level, special events, promotions, merchandise and the team's hosting of the 2011 Midwest League All-Star Game. She has three times been honored as the Midwest League's Female Executive of the Year. Following the 2011 season, she became the Midwest League's youngest general manager and only female general manager. Last season the Quad Cities club welcomed 240,008 fans in attendance - its highest total since 1995.
"I am very appreciative of the support of the River Bandits ownership and staff during this challenging time," Brown said. "I am especially grateful to Dave Heller and Bob Herrfeldt for allowing me time to be with my family and still remain in an important role with the River Bandits."
This offseason, Brown has also helped the River Bandits begin a partnership with a new major league affiliate, the Houston Astros, and set the stage for a season that will include exciting additions to Modern Woodmen Park - possibly including a Ferris wheel, zip line and carousel at the ballpark.
Main Street Baseball will begin looking immediately for a general manager who will report directly to ownership, lead the River Bandits organization and help oversee the High Desert Mavericks, Main Street Baseball's California League club. The River Bandits are accepting applications for the general manager position and will move quickly to bring in a new general manager.
UP NEXT: Now is the time to reserve a table at the Valentine's Day Dinner at Modern Woodmen Park. Choose any of three nights - Feb. 14, 15 or 16 - to enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner in a private luxury suite or take in the spectacular views of the ballpark, Centennial Bridge, Mississippi River and downtown Davenport from a table in the glass-enclosed, climate-controlled Sky Deck. A reservation begins at just $65 per couple. Call Andrea Nolan or Shauna Learn at 563-324-3000 or email [email protected] or [email protected]. Reservations must be made by 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 8.
ABOUT THE BANDITS: The River Bandits are currently planning one of the biggest improvements to Modern Woodmen Park since Main Street Baseball first bought the team. A new affiliate, the chance to see last year's No. 1 overall draft pick, Carlos Correa, and a stunning new improvement will make this season one every fan will not want to miss!