***PRESS RELEASE ***
February 20, 2025
(WEST CHARLOTTE, NC) — The Knothole Foundation of the Carolinas is excited to announce the addition of Tommy Viola as the organization’s new Chief Communications Officer. With two decades of experience in communications and public relations within Minor League Baseball, Viola brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for community engagement that will help further the foundation’s mission.
Over his last 20 years working in Minor League Baseball, Viola has successfully managed a wide range of communications efforts, including media relations, strategic messaging, baseball information, social media and fan engagement. Viola’s expertise in cultivating strong relationships with media outlets, local organizations, and community leaders has led to increased visibility and recognition for the teams and initiatives he has worked with.
“I am so thrilled to join the Knothole Foundation at such an exciting time in its growth,” said Tommy Viola. “Baseball is my life and the growth of youth baseball in West Charlotte is very important to me. I look forward to working with this amazing team and its board of directors to continue building meaningful connections with our supporters, ensuring that our message resonates with the communities we serve. This is a dream come true.”
A graduate of Penn State University (2003), Viola embarked on his career in baseball in 2004 as a photography intern with the Altoona Curve (Double-A affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates). After that, the Brooklyn, NY native jumped into the communications and media relations side of professional baseball, spending two seasons with the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Triple-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies) and two seasons with the Reading Phillies (Double-A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies). Over the course of those four seasons in the Philadelphia organization, Viola earned a chance to work for the Phillies in the National League Playoffs in 2010. As part of that experience, Viola assisted the Phillies communications staff and was there for Roy Halladay’s no-hitter in the 2010 NLDS.
Over the past 13 years, Viola made his mark in the Charlotte community, helping the Charlotte Knights (Triple-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox) make the move from Fort Mill, SC to Uptown Charlotte, NC. After joining the Knights in January of 2012, the team quickly established a strong media presence thanks to Viola’s tireless efforts. From the team’s groundbreaking on Truist Field in 2012 to welcoming over five-million fans through the ballpark’s gates, Viola was there every step of the way. Over his time with the team, Viola was promoted to Vice President of Communications and helped bring the team to new heights in the Queen City.
With the Knothole Foundation, Viola will lead all aspects of the foundation’s communications strategy, including media relations, public affairs, social media, marketing, fund development, and brand development. Viola’s leadership will help amplify the foundation’s efforts to support youth sports, community outreach, and the long-lasting impact of baseball in local communities.
“Tommy’s extensive background in communications and his passion for community engagement makes him an ideal fit for this role,” said Jeff Schaefer, Co-Founder of the Knothole Foundation. “As a former Charlotte O’s and Charlotte Knights player, I saw the passion in Tommy when he welcomed former players and teams to the ballpark for tribute nights. We’re very excited for him to come on board as we continue to grow The Knothole Foundation. He’s perfect for this new role.”
The Knothole Foundation is dedicated to increasing access and opportunities for underserved youth through a focus on baseball instruction, academic support and life skills development. Viola’s experience in baseball will serve to strengthen the foundation’s ability to connect with key organizations to continue its work in making a difference in the community.
“We are confident that Tommy’s leadership will play a key role in advancing the foundation’s mission and enhancing our relationships with community partners,” said Morris Madden, Co-Founder of the Knothole Foundation. “We are very excited for the future of The Knothole Foundation.”
About The Knothole Foundation
The Knothole Foundation of the Carolinas is dedicated to enhancing the lives of youth by increasing access, skills, and opportunities through ball and bat sports. Emphasizing the role of athletics in character development, teamwork, and resilience, Knothole helps kids see, play, and apply the game to improve their quality of life. Key initiatives focus on offering transformative athletic experiences through baseball and softball instruction, developing athletic skills, and partnering with community organizations to provide educational resources for younger students. We aim to promote diversity in baseball while building a community of sponsors and donors dedicated to the future of our youth.
For more information, please visit our website at knotholecarolinas.org. You can also follow us on social media: X | Facebook | Instagram
You can email Tommy Viola at tommyviola@knotholecarolinas.org.
