Katie Woods has been named tournament director for the National Baseball Congress World Series, becoming the ninth director dating back to 1935.
Woods has spent the last 13 years in Minor League Baseball as an innovative and celebrated minor league executive, serving as the Assistant General Manager of both the Lancaster JetHawks (CA) and Everett AquaSox (WA), and most recently the Director of Marketing & Community Engagement for the Wichita Wind Surge.
Woods has been honored as Female Executive of the Year three times in MiLB, twice in the Northwest League with Everett (2013 & 2015), and once in the California League with Lancaster (2019). She was instrumental in the execution of the 2013 NWL All-Star Game events and operations and has consulted on business operations for teams around the country.
In her new role, Woods will lead all aspects of the NBC World Series, including team selection, tournament operations, budget, schedule, promotions, merchandise, and marketing.
“The NBC World Series is a storied tradition in Wichita, and I’m looking forward to leading the tournament’s growth and evolution as we celebrate its 89th year and beyond,” said Woods. “Not only has the NBC World Series been home to the next generation of Major League players for decades, but its innovative fan experience and rich history makes it one of the most unique tournaments in the country.”
Woods takes the helm of the NBC World Series from Kevin Jenks, who has served as tournament director since 2014, and is now president of the Greater Wichita Area Sports Commission.
“Katie’s passion for baseball, relationships and guest experience is unparalleled. The NBC deserves a dedicated individual with new ideas and a proven track record. Katie is aware of our tradition, but it’s her vision and tenacity that will create unique opportunities for our future.”
In addition to becoming just the ninth tournament director, Woods also becomes the first woman to hold the position.
“For us, there isn’t a doubt that Katie is the right person for the position,” said Jenks. “Her experience in Minor League Baseball, her knowledge of the game, and her drive to create top tier experiences for everyone involved will be a shot of adrenaline for the NBC.”
