SJ Sports: Sharks Earn High Marks

If the residents of South Jersey were given report cards to grade all local companies, the Camden Riversharks would certainly make the honor roll. Few businesses in South Jersey have made the positive impact that the Riversharks have managed in just two short years.

This past year, the Riversharks were successful both on and off the field. The team finished with a 71-54 record and earned a berth in the Atlantic League playoffs. Camden was third in the league in attendance, averaging 4,600 per game in the 6,425-capacity stadium. That bettered the first year average attendance of 4,400.

Owner Steve Shilling’s vision of a beautiful stadium on the waterfront has come to fruition, but the Riversharks have proven to be much more than just scenery. Through the leadership of General Manager John Brandt, the team has become a solid community partner.

“I happen to love baseball and people, said Brandt. “It’s been a pleasure meeting and working with so many nice people from South Jersey.”

Campbell’s Field, home of the Riversharks, has been named “Ballpark of the Year,” for 2003 by www.digitalballparks.com. The Camden ballpark was picked from a list of both Major League and Minor League ballparks throughout the United States and Canada.

“That was quite an honor,” said David Brady, Riversharks assistant general manager in charge of sales, marketing and promotions. “We take a lot of pride in the ballpark.”

It hasn’t all been smooth sailing for the Riversharks, who have had their share of obstacles to overcome.

“We’ve had some challenges, but that’s part of life,” Brandt said. “Our team, I mean our entire team, from (the owner) right on through the organization has done a magnificent job.”

The team on the field showed vast improvement in its second season. After going 49-77 in their first year, the Sharks earned a playoff berth this past season, losing to Bridgeport, 2-1 in the best of three first-round series.

“Naturally, we want to win.” Brandt said. “Everyone wants to win,” then pausing, Brandt added, “My goals go beyond the scoreboard.”

Content provided by South Jersey Sports Club.

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Author: SJ Sports Club-J.T. Marcellus