Surprise listener offers Double-A opportunity to Smith

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(March 14, 2018) When Joe DiMaggio was asked why he always played so hard, his famous reply was, “Because someone might be watching me for the first time.” Similarly always doing his best has resulted in Spenser Smith getting back into affiliated baseball at the Class-AA level. An STAA member, Smith is the new Broadcasting and Media Relations Assistant for the Trenton Thunder.

It is the 1,000th sports broadcasting job accepted by an STAA member since 2007.

Smith moves to Trenton after four seasons broadcasting winter league, summer collegiate, Class-A and independent league games.

“While I was broadcasting the Frontier League championship series for the Florence Freedom last September, [Thunder broadcaster] Jon Mozes reached out on Twitter and gave me some kind words on my on-air work,” says Smith. “He’d decided to listen in to the series, as our manager was previously the hitting coach for Jon’s former employer, the independent Gary SouthShore RailCats.”

In December, Trenton had an opening in broadcasting and media relations that was emailed to STAA members. “Jon [Mozes] reached out to me directly to ask if I was interested in interviewing,” Smith explains. “It served as a positive reminder that you never know who’s listening.”

While Smith is aware of the hesitation some affiliated teams have with hiring from independent leagues, it never deterred him. “I reminded myself that at this level of the game, whether it’s affiliated ball or indy ball, hiring managers seek out candidates who can contribute to front office goals. The position descriptions can vary, but there’s so much overlap between media exposure, sales, social media and other aspects that, ultimately, a diverse skillset is your key to success in the job market.”

Smith also tips his cap to STAA. He’s been a member since 2014.

“My STAA membership has constantly reminded me of the value of relationship building in this industry. Keep in touch with those whom you meet, and don’t be afraid to seek advice and guidance. Also, be willing to offer help and information to others whenever possible, as ‘paying it forward’ is part of what makes this industry such a pleasure to be a part of.”

(Visit Spenser’s website).

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