Border Cats hire new manager

Andy Judkins is out and Dan Holcomb is in as manager of the Thunder Bay Border Cats.

The team on Tuesday announced the switch, saying Judkins is leaving the Northwoods League team after one season because he and his wife are expecting a baby in January.

Holcomb, 25, is the 10th manager since the franchise formed in 2003. He played in the NWL from 2008 to 2010 with the Battle Creek Bombers and has fond memories of his new summer city.

"Having played in Thunder Bay, I remember the great facilities and beautiful city and I look forward to the challenge of putting a winning team on the field," he said. 

Cats owner Brad Jorgenson says having a manager with NWL experience is a bonus.

"Dan has familiarity with the Northwoods League having spent three years in Battle Creek as a player and one season in the front office as he finished up his degree.  As a former player in Battle Creek his experience will serve him well especially with the busy 70-game season and Thunder Bay's unique travel schedule," Jorgenson said.

Judkins guided the Cats to a 32-37 record in his only season at the helm.

"Of my three years coaching in the NWL, last summer was by far the most enjoyable experience I've ever had," said Judkins in a release issued by the team.