The summer of 2017 is full of promise for the Harrisonburg Turks for several reasons, not least of which is the return of long-time President and General Manager Bob Wease as the head coach. His 16th season in the head coaching position, Wease looks to enjoy his 27th year as President and GM. During his time at the helm, the Turks have gone 423-248 in games and look to improve on their 27-17 finish from last year.
Wease has had a decorated career as a player and coach, achieving numerous accolades—such as his induction into the Rockingham County Baseball League Hall of Fame—as well as championships over the years. Additionally, the 2017 Turks coaching staff includes four other members who will undoubtedly compliment Wease’s pedigree.
Bench Coach Mark Klosinski rounds out a decade of service this season with the Turks organization. A specialist at his position, Klosinski’s expertise will add valuable stability to the Turk’s bench. A faithful employee of the Rockingham County Schools, Klosinski resides in Harrisonburg with his wife, Lisa.
To add to the veteran leadership of Klosinski, the Turks are excited to welcome Eric Niesen to his first season with the team as the Pitching Coach. An accomplished pitcher himself, Niesen provides a fresh perspective for the finer details of the role of the man at the mound. Prior to this summer, Niesen worked as the Student Assistant for the Wake Forest coaching staff while finishing his bachelor’s degree.
Joining the Turks for his first season as an assistant coach is EMU alumnus Nic Love. Love was named team captain for the Royals during his playing days in addition to mainlining a high quality of academic work, cementing a perennial spot on the Dean’s list.
Another former EMU player joins the talented group of Turk’s coaches in Ryan Tierney, a four-year letter winning pitcher during his playing days for the Royals. Tierney is coming off of his first season as an assistant coach for his alma mater, and will look to establish a strong rapport with the Turk’s players this summer.