Former Waterloo Bucks Field Manager Pete Lauritson has been hired as the new Express third-base coach. Lauritson replaces Shawn Peck on Eau Claire’s staff. Peck had determined in recent weeks that he would not return for the 2011 summer.

“I’m very excited to have the opportunity to join the Express staff,” Lauritson said. “Managing in Waterloo, I always had a great deal of respect for Dale and how he focuses his program on player development. It’s great to be back in the Northwoods League knowing that the focus is on preparing these players for the next game and to play at the next level. I look forward to a great season.”

The Mason City, Iowa native has a great deal of experience in the Northwoods League, spending three years with the Waterloo Bucks. He began in 2007 as the team’s bench coach, before leading the Bucks to a four-game improvement in his first season as Field Manager for the 2008 season. Lauritson remained in that role for the 2009 season.

“Pete’s experience in the Northwoods League will be a great addition to our staff this year,” Express Field Manager Dale Varsho stated. “He has a great understanding of the teaching aspect we focus on here and he has a great deal of experience in the league that will definitely help us.”

Lauritson is in the midst of his eighth season as the hitting coach for North Iowa Area Community College. Under his leadership, NIACC has led the ICCAC in team batting average four of the last five seasons. The 2005 team finished fourth in the nation in batting average at .357. In addition, he serves as the team’s outfield coach and assists in recruiting.