Thunderbirds Hire Zak DeBeaussaert as Director of Communications

Winston-Salem, NC - The Carolina Thunderbirds are proud to announce the hiring of Zak DeBeaussaert as the team’s new Director of Communications, effective July 2nd, 2018.

DeBeaussaert will be responsible for the play-by-play of all Thunderbirds' games, hosting the weekly recap/Coaches Show, sponsorship sales, media relations, team social media, and other administrative tasks.

Thunderbirds GM Scott Brand had this to say:  “We are very excited to add Zak to our organization. His knowledge of hockey, understanding of media importance, both traditional and social, plus his strong work ethic will allow our organization to maintain its leadership role in the Federal Hockey League. Looking at this young man’s accomplishments in his short career should get our fans excited about the upcoming season, as they will be able to experience an inside, in-depth look at our players, coaches and organization.”

DeBeaussaert, 25, comes to North Carolina after spending the last three years as a traffic reporter and high school sports play-by-play announcer in the Lansing, Michigan area. He also served as a production hand and occasional on-air host in Mid-Michigan Radio.

“Coming out of GVSU (Grand Valley State University) to get a job right out of college, in my desired field, in my home state, was an incredible get, and I considered myself fortunate to land an opportunity that was convenient for myself and my family. Now, after growing for a little bit and realizing professional play-by-play is what I want to do, I was not afraid to spread my wings and move to an entirely different state to pursue my dream. My time in Lansing really helped me get a solid foundation for my broadcasting career. I will always be grateful to the Mid-Michigan area for giving me my start.” DeBeaussaert said.

DeBeaussaert is an alum of Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI, graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Broadcasting and Communication Studies in 2015.

DeBeaussaert also comes to the Thunderbirds from the Chippewa Club Hockey Network in Mount Pleasant, MI where he served as a play-by-play announcer for Central Michigan University’s various club hockey teams in the ACHA. He was part of national championship tournament broadcasting teams for the ACHA in both 2015 and 2018.

DeBeaussaert has a long history in hockey for his age, between playing as a youth, being a certified USA Hockey referee, and the aforementioned experience in hockey play-by-play broadcasting. He has refereed games since the 2010-11 season at various youth and adult levels.

“Over half of my life so far has been dedicated in some way to hockey, be it as a player, referee, or a broadcaster. I’m absolutely obsessed with the game, and to be able to have my first professional play-by-play job be in hockey has me ecstatic. I hope that fans will be able to pick up my excitement for the game in each and every broadcast, and I hope that I can convey my knowledge in a way that is digestible for everybody from the diehards to those listening to their first hockey game ever.” DeBeaussaert commented.

Zak DeBeaussaert can be reached by email at zakd@carolinathunderbirds.com or by cell at (586) 256-1960.

Pronunciation note:

DeBeaussaert = Duh-Bose*-Art

*Like the speaker company