WILMINGTON – The Wilmington Sharks are pleased to announce Brett Bloomquist as General Manager, Chris Murphy, as Director of Operations and Ani Gerics, as Director of Ticket Sales.

Bloomquist rejoins the Sharks, returning to the team he played for in 2008 as a left- handed pitcher. Since his time with the Sharks, he earned degrees from Appalachian State University and the University of Florida. His diverse professional background includes a distinguished 12-year career as an Intelligence Officer in the United States Navy, a consultant at a Big Four firm and various leadership positions across multiple industries.

“I’m excited to guide the Sharks organization,” said Bloomquist. “I look forward to using my experiences as a player and in management to continue the growth of the Sharks throughout the Cape Fear region.”

Murphy comes to the Sharks with a background spanning 23 years in the hospitality industry. He has extensive experience with live events, restaurants, catering and non- profits.

“I’m looking forward to my first season in baseball,” said Murphy. As a life-long baseball fan I know how important it is for the Sharks to deliver an exceptional experience at Buck Hardee Field.”

Wilmington native, Ani Gerics, has taken over as Director of Ticket Sales. An UNCW graduate, Gerics joins the Sharks after a tenure in ticket services with the NHL Nashville Predators.

“It’s exciting for me to return to Wilmington and work with my hometown team,” said Gerics. “I’m looking forward to meeting the Sharks season ticket holders and host families and working with the business community and civic organizations to fill the stadium this summer.”

Additionally, this past fall, the Sharks announced the return of field manager Russ Burroughs to manage the Sharks for his fourth consecutive season. Last season under Burroughs direction the Sharks reached the Coastal Plain League playoffs for the first time since 2017 and won the CPL Eastern Division Championship. He led the Sharks to top six finishes in the 15-team CPL in 2021, 2022 and 2023. Thirteen former Sharks recruited by Burroughs have signed with Major League Baseball organizations to play pro ball.