League Champs

2003 2013
2004 2014
2009 2016
2010 2019
2012 2022
2023

Staff

Brian Spagnola... President
gm@AmsterdamMohawks.com -- 518-791-7546

Brian Spagnola has been president of the Amsterdam Mohawks since 2003. As a lifelong Amsterdam resident, he has dedicated himself to making Shuttleworth Park into a top venue for baseball in the nation. He has led the Mohawks to league championships in 2003, 2004, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2022. He has also helped the Mohawks turn into a leader in game atmospheres as well as attendance.

Spagnola began his affiliation with college baseball coaching at then NCAA Division II power The College of Saint Rose. He has served as an assistant coach there under Bob Bellizzi from 1991 to 2003 and also was the head coach of the Schenectady Mohawks from 1991-1993. His 1991 team had eight players on it who later went on to play professional baseball. He also served as an assistant coach with the Mohawks in 1990 and 1994. He is currently third in line for coaches with the most wins in Mohawk history. In 2003, he stepped away from Saint Rose to become the head coach at his alma mater, Amsterdam High School, where in just a few short years he turned the program into one of the finest in the area.

He lives in Amsterdam with his wife Jill and has five children Marissa (27), Max (24), Mackenzie (22), Andrew (20), and Amelia (13).
................................................................................................................................................

 

David Dittmann... Vice President


David Dittman joined the Mohawks in 2007 and in one short season was instrumental in helping double attendance figures and create a more business friendly environment with the Mohawks organization.

Dittmann previously owned the Newport Gulls and helped start the Vermont Mountaineers and Plymouth Pilgrims of the New England Collegiate Baseball League. He was instrumental in the success of all of those teams. He also owned the Peninsula Pilots of the Coastal Plains League. These teams all led their respective leagues in attendance or showed tremendous growth during Dittmann's tenure. Earlier, Dittmann owned an array of minor league team baseball teams, including the New Haven Ravens AA team. He grew up around baseball as his father was the corporate attorney for the Philadelphia Phillies for years.

Dittmann resides in Newport, RI.
................................................................................................................................................

Megan Anagnostopulos...General Manager
Megan@AmsterdamMohawks.com -- 518-391-5236

Megan was born and raised in Johnstown, NY. After high school, she furthered her academic and athletic career at SUNY Brockport where she was a member of the women’s basketball team. Megan graduated from SUNY Brockport in May of 2019, majoring in Sports Management, minoring in Business Administration and Coaching. While at SUNY Brockport, placed an internship as a tournament intern in 2019 at the Ripken Experience in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Following undergrad, Megan attended Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, where she completed her Master’s Degree in Sports Management. During her time at ODU, she placed a Graduate Assistantship with the United States Collegiate Athletic Association as their Coordinator of Marketing and Events. After completing her Master’s Degree, she placed a job as Account Executive of Ticket Sales and Operations with the Albany FireWolves, the new box lacrosse team in Albany.
 
Megan has spent three seasons with the Amsterdam Mohawks in the past. She was an intern her first year and then got promoted as Director of Group Sales for her next two season. She is excited to be back in Amsterdam working for the Mohawks.


................................................................................................................................................

Pat Beck... Director of Corporate Relations


Pat was added to the Mohawks staff in 2015 after her retirement as publisher of The Leader Herald newspaper. She will be a liaison between the Mohawks and all corporate clients and as well serve as a marketing consultant for the team. She is a longtime Amsterdam resident, having raised a wonderful family with her late husband Skip.
 
 
 
 

................................................................................................................................................

 

Jeffrey Parker...Director of Stadium and Grounds

................................................................................................................................................

 

Jon Sargalis... Director of Public Relations & Media Relations
Jon@AmsterdamMohawks.com -- 518-258-4208

A Mohawks fan since 2004, Jon's first position with the team was as a photographer in 2006. He then volunteered to assist in stadium operations from 2009-10. In 2011, he became a Marketing and Promotions Intern for the team. In 2012, he was hired as the Director of Marketing and Media Relations. This position continues today; he currently coordinates all baseball media releases during the off-season. He's the team's exclusive graphic artist and is in charge all social media and website updates.

Jon was an assistant coach and scorekeeper for the Broadalbin-Perth High School for 6 years and had his jersey retired at a Mohawks game in 2013. He also worked as the PR/Media Relations Intern for the Adirondack Phantoms in the AHL for the 2012-13 hockey season under the direction of former Mohawks broadcaster Bob Rotruck.

Currently, Jon has been working for the Chicago Cubs Guest Services department since 2015 and has a World Series ring from the 2016 season. In addition, he has worked for the Chicago Bears Fan Services department since 2018, America's Pastime Stables since 2019, the Chicago Blackhawks Hockey Communications department since 2022 and has been a baseball coach at the prestigious Latin School of Chicago since 2015.

Jon grew up in Broadalbin, NY and currently resides in Chicago, IL.
................................................................................................................................................

Eric Zelezniak... Director of Marketing

Eric Zelezniak is a freshman at Hudson Valley Community College where he is studying Business Administration as well as playing on the baseball team. He is very excited to be returning home to the Mohawks with hopes to gain a lot more experience and knowledge taking on a more involved role with the organization.

 

 

 

 

 

................................................................................................................................................

 

Carla Pasquarelli... Head Athletic Trainer


Carla joined the Amsterdam Mohawks in 2011 and has been serving as our athletic trainer ever since. During the year she works with local schools. Carla graduated from Russell Sage College with a bachelor of science in athletic training.

 
 
 
 
 
 
................................................................................................................................................
Connor Cozzocrea... Assistant Athletic Trainer
 
................................................................................................................................................
Paula Hawkins... Host Family Coordinator

Paula has served as the Mohawks Host Family Coordinator since 2015.  Her role to secure and coordinate housing for the players is a thankless job, but one of the most critical elements to the Mohawks success.  Paula resides in Amsterdam with her husband Jeremy and has a son David.
 
 

................................................................................................................................................

 

Barry Rouse... On-Field Entertainment


The on-field voice of the Mohawks since 2009, Barry's passion for the Mohawks and the game are evident through the fun he creates for the fans.  

 
 
 
 
 
................................................................................................................................................
 
Bob Scott... Director of Veteran Relations

Bob's love for the Mohawks and his desire to honor all Veterans is truly remarkable. Bob strives to improve the Mohawks organization in every aspect. 
 
 
 
 

................................................................................................................................................

 

Andrew Spagnola... Stadium Sound
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
................................................................................................................................................
 
Brian Cady... PA Announcer

Brian has been a lifelong resident of the Capital Region, born and raised in Albany prior to moving to Amsterdam in 2017. Upon graduating from Christian Brothers Academy in 2005, Brian attended Siena College for a year and a half with original intentions of majoring in Political Science, but he found a true passion volunteering at the on-campus radio station WVCR 88.3 The Saint. He eventually went on to receive a Radio & Television Arts Certificate from The New School of Radio and Television in 2008, leading to eventual opportunities with Townsquare Media in Schenectady, Albany Broadcasting in Latham and the now-defunct Empire Broadcasting group in Malta.
 
During his time working in radio, Brian discovered a new passion that continues to this day - Sports PA Announcing. Since beginning in 2013, Brian has announced events for several area colleges, Cage Wars MMA and even a few local Pro Wrestling companies. He has also worked with the NYSPHSAA Girls Basketball Championships since 2018 and has been the official voice of their Championship Weekend at HVCC since 2020. Brian also worked as the announcer for the Amsterdam HS Holiday Basketball Showcase for the first time in December 2021.
 
Brian made his debut for the Amsterdam Mohawks as their new PA Announcer for the 2019 season and has loved every minute of it, looking forward to see what the Mohawks have to offer this season!

................................................................................................................................................

 

Mojo... Mascot

A lifelong Mohawks fan, Mojo became the team's official mascot in 2006. It's unclear how old Mojo is or where he came from, because he won't tell anyone. In fact, he barely says anything at all. It is believed that Mojo lost his voice cheering for the Mohawks after they won the championship in 2003. Since then, he has enjoyed livening up Shuttleworth Park and loves the between inning games and dances.

In 2006, right before signing on with the Mohawks, Mojo tried out for the second season of Dancing With The Stars. The producers of the show felt that Mojo was "too famous" and his presence would be "unfair to the other stars." The show instead picked ESPN analyst Kenny Mayne, who performed a disastrous cha-cha and was the first contestant eliminated. Since then, Mojo has made it a point to perform the Cha-Cha Slide at every home game to show off his superior dancing skills. Mojo always invites the kids and players to join in the on-field dances to show that he can share the spotlight. Players like Ricky Breymier (Pittsburgh) in 2008 and Rich Vrana (Marist) in 2013 have come on and stolen the show, but Mojo loves enthusiasm and loves all the fans that attend the games.

If you see Mojo at a game or around the city, be sure to give him a high-five for good luck.
................................................................................................................................................
 
2024 Interns 
 
Broadcasters

Sam Federman…Broadcaster

Sam is a rising sophomore at Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, majoring in Broadcast and Digital Journalism. Sam graduated from Columbia Grammar and Preparatory School in New York, NY in 2023, and is a native of West Harrison, NY. Sam was the voice of athletics at both his middle and high school. Last summer, he was the voice of Palm Springs Power baseball, calling games for the 30-1 Champions of the California Premier Collegiate League. Additionally, he was the voice of the Power Summer Collegiate League in Palm Springs. At Syracuse, he covered the volleyball beat for the Daily Orange in the fall of his freshman year. He's also a college basketball writer covering mid-majors in the northeast, especially the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, for Mid-Major Madness. Sam is also an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots and UConn Huskies.
 
 
John Boccio... Broadcaster
 
John is from Long Island, New York. He graduated from Chaminade High School in June 2023. In his sophomore year of high school, he started a sports broadcasting program. They were able to do play-by-play and color for all of Chaminade athletics. That included major sports like baseball, basketball, and football. This also extended to sports like bowling and volleyball. The team has expanded today to include positions in public address announcing and statistician work. He will be a sophomore in the fall at Syracuse University studying Broadcast and Digital Journalism at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. At Syracuse, he is an Associate Producer for Citrus TV’s On the Bench. He is also a member of WAER Sports, Z89 Sports, and more.
 
Eliasar Perez...Broadcaster

Eliasar Perez is a student at Plattsburgh State University of New York. He majored in TV/Video Production while also producing two live productions and covering some men's and women's Ice Hockey games. In college, Eliasar spent three semesters producing shows and sports games at Plattsburgh State Television. He played 7 years of baseball before committing to SUNY Plattsburgh and has lived his whole life following the game of baseball. His future career is one day to call a Yankees game or any other sports team that needs his voice. He also wants to own his personal production studio where he can express his creativity. Eliasar is very excited to join the Mohawks staff and also gain a multitude of experience in the baseball industry.

 
Analytics
 
Justin Kearns... Analytics Intern
 
Justin is currently attending Mercyhurst University majoring in Sports Business and Management. He hopes to work with the analytic side of sports after graduating. He is a Mets fan and is looking forward to a successful season with the Mohawks.
 
Emily Heins... Analytics Intern
 
Emily is from Clifton Park, NY. She is going into her junior year at SUNY Oneonta for Sports Management with a minor in Statistics.  She has grown up around baseball her whole life and is a Mets fan. She is excited to work with the Mohawks to be around the sport she loves.
 
 
Garrett Dooling... Marketing Intern
Garrett is from Gloversville and is currently a sophomore at East Carolina University pursuing a degree in marketing with hopes to one day work in sports. He grew up playing baseball and played throughout high school. He is really looking forward to working with the mohawks this summer!
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nicholas Farone... Marketing Intern
Nicholas is from Rotterdam Junction, New York. He will be entering his senior year at Coastal Carolina University working toward completing his degree in Marketing with a minor in Hospitality, Resort, and Tourism Management. He is a lifelong sports fan and played both football and baseball in high school. His love of baseball began when he attended the Amsterdam Mohawks Summer Baseball Camp in 2010 and was coached by former stand-out Mohawks player and current MLB catcher, Luke Maile. He is looking forward to working with a team he grew up watching.
 
 
 
 
 
 
Brady Houser... Marketing Intern
Brady is from Johnstown,NY. He is currently studying at SUNY Fulton Montgomery Community College majoring in Entertainment technology. He’s Grown up a long time Sport fan and is looking forward to working with the Mohawks this season!
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Giovanni Gonzalez... Game Day Management Intern

Giovanni Gonzalez is a  high school junior intern with the Mohawks,  with a passion for both sports and community involvement. Hailing from Amsterdam High School, he is a member of the football team and has also embraced the spirit of inclusivity through his participation in Unified basketball. With a blend of athleticism, leadership, and compassion, Giovanni Gonzalez is poised to make a positive impact both on and off the field. As he seeks to further his personal and professional development, he brings with him a spirit of determination and a commitment to excellence that will undoubtedly serve him well in any endeavor he pursues.

 

 
Jude Flint... Game Day Management Intern

Jude Flint is a dedicated high school junior intern with a profound passion for baseball and a drive to make a difference in the world of sports. As a member of Amsterdam High School’s baseball team, Jude has showcased his skills on the field while demonstrating a keen interest in the science and art of athletic training. As a standout player for his school's baseball team, Jude has exemplified resilience, discipline, and leadership.  Beyond his achievements on the diamond, Jude is fueled by a desire to pursue a career in athletic training. He envisions himself playing a pivotal role in ensuring the health and wellness of athletes in the future.

 

Natalie McNeil... Game Day Management Intern

Natalie McNeil is a dedicated high school junior at Amsterdam High School, where she excels both academically and athletically. With a passion for sports, Natalie is a valued member of the school's softball and soccer teams, where she demonstrates leadership, teamwork, and perseverance on and off the field. Eager to broaden her horizons and gain valuable experience, Natalie is seeking an internship opportunity to further develop her skills and contribute meaningfully to a professional setting.

 

John Severino... Game Day Management Intern

John Severino is a junior at Amsterdam High School, where he excels both academically and athletically. A dedicated member of the cross country team and a key player on the varsity soccer team, John's passion for sports is evident in his commitment and performance. Outside of his athletic pursuits, John is focused on a future career in sport management, where he aims to combine his love for sports with his leadership skills and strategic thinking.