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Lebanon, NH – Upper Valley has officially announced the return of Manager Justin Devoid and Pitching Coach Chad Sturgeon for the 2022 NECBL season. The duo led the Hawks to their first-ever appearance in the NECBL Final Four in their first season in White River, behind an impressive 23-18 record which was good for 2nd in the Northern Division.

The Nighthawks led the NECBL in many categories throughout the 2021 season, including batting average (.276). They were second in hits, doubles, and on-base percentage, while also setting the single-season team record for stolen bases (125). Behind Sturgeon, the Nighthawks boasted the third-best ERA in the league at 4.13, giving up the least amount of home runs and grabbing the second-best WHIP at 1.38 and lowest number of walks allowed (144). The duo also produced seven all-stars. 

Turning the page to 2022, the coaches have a positive outlook for the season ahead. “I’m very excited for the opportunity and I am fortunate to have Chad back for the summer”, said Devoid. “I could not be more excited to work alongside Justin for another season. We complement each other well and I am looking to build on one of the most successful seasons in team history”, echoed Sturgeon. The duo has high expectations for their second campaign, and want to build on the growth they experienced last season. Devoid continues, “With the success we had last season, I am extremely hopeful we will have another great summer and couldn’t be happier to have some familiar faces coming back”.

Upper Valley is in the midst of their offseason and continuing to form the roster that will be led by Devoid and Sturgeon, who will also be joined by former 'Hawks hitting coach Mat Pause. Having the coaching staff already committed takes a large task off the to-do list before opening day. “It is a big win for our organization to have Justin and Chad back in the dugout for 2022. They did an exceptional job this past summer and I look forward to having them back at Maxfield”, said Nighthawks President Noah Crane. The front office is looking forward to big things from the team in the coming season. “The game of baseball has changed in recent years”, said General Manager Matt Wright. “To have two young coaches with such experience, understanding, and respect for the sport puts us ahead of the competition and in a great position to compete every night”.

The Nighthawks will be competing in their sixth NECBL season. Stay up to date as the offseason progresses by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter and Instagram @UVNighthawks.