WORCESTER - Worcester Sharks President and CEO Michael T. Lehr announced today that the club has hired Melissa Gardner as the Director of Corporate Sales. 

 

Gardner, a Sterling, Massachusetts native and graduate of Notre Dame Academy of Worcester, has an extensive hockey background and marketing experience at the professional sports level. She joins the Sharks staff after one year in the Athletic Department at UMASS-Lowell (NCAA).  Melissa has previously worked in the American Hockey League as a Vice President for the Quad City Flames and in management for the Springfield Falcons in the marketing department.

 

The 30-year old received a bachelor’s degree of Science in Business Administration from Elmira College and grew up a Worcester Ice Cats fan. “I am extremely excited to come back home to a great franchise in a great hockey city, said Gardner.  “Hockey has always been a strong passion of mine and I cannot wait till the Sharks drop the puck for this All-Star season.”

 

“Melissa has a great wealth of experience in professional hockey and we welcome her as the Sharks look to continue to build on the first two seasons in Worcester,” said Lehr.  “We are thrilled to have her join the Sharks family bringing a tremendous attitude and leadership for a continued commitment to becoming an elite AHL franchise as we prepare for a momentous third season and the 2009 AHL All-Star Classic in Worcester.”

 

Gardner currently resides in South Boston, Massachusetts but plans to move to the Worcester area.

The Sharks home opener is Saturday, October 18 against the Providence Bruins.  The first 3,000 fans will receive an All-Star FINZ Bobblehead and a magnet schedule compliments of Charter Communications.

 

Ticket packages for the 2008-09 season are on sale now by contacting the Worcester Sharks Office at 508.929.0500 or by crashing the net at www.sharksahl.com. Secure your seat for the 2009 AHL All-Star Classic presented by Charter Communications by making your deposit today!