Former President, Co-Chairman, and Board Member of Choice Hotels International, the world’s third-largest lodging chain. Co-founder and owner of the Coastal Plain League from 1996 until 2022. Jerry is also the former owner of the Holly Springs Salamanders in the league, as well as Creative Hotel Associates, which owns 19 hotels, and the Echo Mountain Ski Area in Colorado. The Petitt family’s goal is to bring top-quality summer collegiate baseball and family-friendly entertainment to Greenville.

John McCormick enters his first season as the General Manager of the Greenville Yard Gnomes.

With a strong background in baseball and community engagement, McCormick brings valuable experience from his time with the Coastal Plain League, East Carolina University, and the Texas Rangers organization.

A 2019 graduate of ECU, McCormick began his career in 2017 as a multimedia intern with the Coastal Plain League. He later worked with the Morehead City Marlins, contributing to back-to-back Petitt Cup Championships. McCormick also gained expertise in food & beverage management, special events, and account executive roles with the Rangers’ Minor League teams. McCormick was a part of the 2023 Texas Rangers World Series Championship.

“I’m thrilled to return to the Coastal Plain League and build something special in Greenville,” said McCormick. “Our goal is to make the Yard Gnomes a community staple, where families can enjoy baseball and local talent can grow.”

A Washington, NC native, Kevin graduated from Campbell University in 2022 with a degree in Sport Management and a Minor in Business Administration. He brings experience from the Coastal Plain League, Minor League Baseball and Division I athletics, including roles with the Morehead City Marlins, Campbell University Athletics, Down East Wood Ducks and REV Entertainment.

“I’m excited to join the Yard Gnomes and help grow the team’s presence in Greenville,” said Kevin. “I look forward to providing unforgettable fan experiences and driving team success.”