ROCKFORD, Ill. – The Rockford Thunder of National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) and General Manager Aaron M. Moore announced today that they have signed Rock Valley College Head Coach Jim Sherwood to serve as the team’s assistant coach for the 2007 season. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Sherwood will be responsible for working with the catchers and defense during practices and games, as well as serving as the first base coach. Sherwood will also assist the organization with appearances and clinics during the off-season.

“This is such a great honor and opportunity to be named the Rockford Thunder’s new Assistant Coach,” stated Sherwood. “Being able to be a part of a professional team and seeing the impact it can have on the community is something I’m looking forward to.”

For Sherwood, the 2007 season will be his first serving as a professional coach. He has head coaching experience on the junior high, high school and college level, including his current position as the head coach at Rock Valley College.

“I feel it’s most coaches goal to reach the highest level possible and this is about as high as you can get in softball,” stated Sherwood. “I’m looking forward to a great challenge and summer.”

“As an organization we feel that Jim (Sherwood) was the strongest candidate we interview,” said Moore. “He gained the trust and respect right away with Kristen (Zaleski) and that was probably more important than anything. We think we made the right choice.”

Sherwood joins Manager Javier Vela, who accepted his position to return to the bench in November, for the teams first season in Rockford. Vela is entering his third season as manager of the Thunder and he currently owns a record of 56-39.

For more information on the Thunder or to purchase season tickets for the 2007 season, contact Aaron M. Moore, general manager, at (815) 965-7000 or amoore@thunderprofastpitch.com. Additional information on the team can be obtained on the web at www.thunderprofastpitch.com..

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