Owlz announce Kotchman manager for 2006 season

The Orem Owlz announced, via the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, their 2006 field staff. Manager Tom Kotchman will return for his 23rd season in the Angels organization after leading the team to its second consecutive Pioneer League Championship.

He will be joined by long-time colleague and Orem native Zeke Zimmerman at pitching coach and Francisco Matos at hitting coach. Mike Metcalfe will serve as the team's athletic trainer.

"We are thrilled to have Tom Kotchman back as manager," said Owlz co-general manager, Zachary Fraser. "He has been, without a doubt, the integral force behind our success."

Kotchman, a resident of Florida, not only owns the longest tenure of any Angels' manager but is also the winningest active manager in Minor League Baseball. Since the team's arrival in 2001, he has won five divisional titles, competing for a championship each year.