Lake Elsinore Storm's Front Office Announces Departure Of 2 Managers

The Lake Elsinore Storm has officially announced that Vice President/General Manager Bruce Kessman and Assistant General Manager Tracy Kessman will be leaving the Storm Family and relocating to Goodyear, Arizona. 

Bruce was recently named Ballpark General Manager for the City of Goodyear, the spring training home of the Cleveland Indians and the Cincinnati Reds. He will oversee the operations of the 103-acre facility which encompasses 12 fields and a 10,000 seat stadium. He will also act as a liaison to both major league clubs.

Bruce started his professional career at The Diamond as an intern in 1999 and ultimately took over as the GM of The Diamond Stadium and Storm Events in 2007. Through his vision and leadership, he helped create various off-day events such as concerts, motor sports events, Field of Screams and even revitalized the historic Lake Elsinore Grand Prix. Bruce was also responsible for managing the upkeep and upgrades to The Diamond that have kept the stadium as one of the finest ballparks in Minor League baseball.

“I am truly thankful for the Storm organization for giving me the opportunity to get my start in baseball, but also investing in me to develop my career here,” said Kessman. “It was a difficult decision to leave but I am excited about this new opportunity to further grow and evolve my career in sports.”

Tracy has been very influential as a pioneer for women in sports as she got her start in baseball with the Salem Avalanche in 1997. She then joined the Binghamton Mets before arriving in Lake Elsinore as assistant GM of community relations for the Storm in 2001.

Tracy was a vital part in the growth and success of the Lake Elsinore Storm with her commitment to the community. She created and implemented the popular Little League and Reading for Rewards programs that have been duplicated by many Minor League teams across the nation. Under her guidance the Storm this year was honored as the first ever California League recipient of the John Henry Moss Community Achievement Award. Tracy has been involved with Cops for Kids, H.O.P.E  and various other programs benefitting children/ families in need.

“Words cannot express the feelings and gratitude I have for Bruce and Tracy,” said Storm Team President Dave Oster. "The countless hours and passion these two have invested in the Storm and for the City of Lake Elsinore are immense and may not be truly recognized until they are gone. The City of Goodyear and their complex will now get to see firsthand how special the Kessman family truly is.” 

With a combined 28 years with the Storm, Bruce and Tracy leave a lasting legacy in helping build the Storm into what is now one of the most recognized brands in all of baseball. The Storm would like to wish them the very best on their new endeavors and remind them they will always be part of the Storm family.

Editor's Note: The Kessman's are husband and wife.