By Jim Bailey

Trail Daily Times Sports Editor
 

The Trail Smoke Eaters welcomed a familiar voice into the fold, as the Smokies named play-by-play announcer Chris Wahl its new director of marketing last week.
 

Wahl will continue to be the voice of the Smoke Eaters, but his expanded role will include media relations, promotions, and an increased presence online.
 

“I’m super excited,” said Wahl. “It’s something that I’ve always wanted to do.”
 

Wahl leaves his position as sports director at Mountain FM and the Bridge to devote his full time to the team, bringing a wealth of experience and an already healthy relationship with coaching staff, players, and executive.
 

“Kind of getting one foot in the door last year was a great way to start. I talked to Tom (Gawryletz, president of the Smokies) for a little while once the season ended about expanding that role and they were gracious enough to create the opportunity."

“I just kind of ran with it from there and am really looking forward to getting started in earnest.”
 

A tough year on the ice also translated into a reduced bottom line last season, and Wahl will work to get the community and businesses engaged in making this Smokies campaign a success.
 

“It’s something we’ve been missing for a lot of years,” said Gawryletz, "someone to take charge and spend time on the marketing end of the business.”
 

Up until now, the Smokies were the only team in the league without a full-time marketing manager.
 

“It’s important to get the team out there,” says Wahl. “We have a loyal fan base but with all the new jobs coming into town and new people, there’s definitely untapped potential that I think you can really expose this team to.”

 

For more information on sponsorship opportunities with the Trail Smoke Eaters, contact:

 

Chris Wahl

Director of Marketing/Play-by-Play

(250) 921.8848