PRESS RELEASE – The Lehigh Valley IronPigs are beginning a search for a new Coca-Cola Park public address announcer. Tim Chorones, who held the post since the team’s inception in 2008, has stepped down after six seasons behind the microphone.
The process to replace Chronoes will start immediately. Anyone interested in campaigning to become the next voice of Coca-Cola Park must send a resume and a :30 speaking sample in mp3 format to pasearch@ironpigsbaseball.com by Jan. 31. Because this is viewed as a multi-season position, the IronPigs request that only permanent residents of the area apply. The team also expects commitment for all home games as well as other select events.
Chonores, a 1999 graduate of Catasauqua Area High School, was named the first PA Announcer of Coca-Cola Park on Nov. 30, 2007 after a process that consisted of hundreds of applicants whittled down to nine finalists. However, with a new career opportunity and the birth of a second child, he recognized the likelihood of being overextended with 72 annual games in Allentown.
“It was a difficult decision, one I put a lot of thought into,” said Chorones, now assistant principle at Upper Perkiomen High School. “It wouldn’t have been fair to the IronPigs to learn midway through the season that balancing new responsibilities with my job and family proved too difficult to continue.”
IronPigs General Manager Kurt Landes remarked, “Tim will be sorely missed, as he turned out to be a perfect selection for our game presentation. On a positive note, he leaves us with a template for our next PA announcer – someone with not only a great voice, but also with the energy and enthusiasm that matches our style.”
Chorones was just 26-years-old and teaching fifth grade at Union Terrace Elementary when landing the position.
“It’s been amazing, being able to work here from year one until now,” Chonores reflected. “To see the progress from when we first started and getting the fans excited every night. I introduced the 2008 Phillies in the first game ever played at Coca-Cola Park – and they went on to win the World Series.”
When asked if he would ever consider returning to PA duties in the future, Chorones responded, “I would never rule it out – perhaps an opportunity down the road. I’d be thrilled to still fill in when needed and keep my feet wet.”
The next Voice of Coca-Cola Park will make an official debut on April 7, when the IronPigs host their home opener against the Buffalo Bisons at 5:05 p.m.
The IronPigs hope to have the process completed by National Pig Day (March 1).
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