Prince George, B.C. – So what could the Prince George Cougars and the Prince George Symphony Orchestra possible have in common that would prompt them to hold a joint news conference.

I mean we have all witnessed the poetic artistry that a hockey player can exhibit on the ice: the sensationally sleek strides of an Eddie Shack(!), the passionate pirouette of a Phil Esposito, the shimmeringly smooth glide of Robert Gordon Orr (followed closely by Paul Douglas Coffey), the deftly devine form of a Dave “The Hammer” Schultz, and how about tossing in a bone-crushing, open ice hip check from Danny Hamhuis.  All examples of majestic grace, right?

Well, back to reality here.  What the Cougars and PGSO have announced is that after two years as Orchestra G.M.,  Marnie Hamagami is joining the Cougars as their new Director of Sales and Marketing, starting Monday.   Hamagami is credited with infusing the orchestra organization with positivity, growing ticket sales by 15% and bringing about excellent labour relations with the musicians.

Hamagami says the two organizations will be working together on some very unique ideas for the future.  The first joint effort has the Cougars sponsoring the Pops in the Park concert this September.  The free event marks the beginning of the PGSO’s new season.

Cougars Vice President of Business Andy Beesley says "I'm really looking forward to working with Marnie and having her play a major role with our team.  She brings great energy and a wonderful sense of community engagement to our organization."