dib:

Since our last interview you’ve developed a rather special relationship with the Yankees that transcends your relationship with Major League Baseball.  Tell me about that.

JM:

Not only are we a proud sponsor of the Yankees – we have a four-year sponsorship deal that puts our banner in their ballpark.  But I have to say, the Yankees are a true partner.  They have assisted us in the community, and with our tournaments.  They have sent representatives to the games, donated baseballs, provided gifts for the kids – even scholarships.  They have given us business and have been a perfect organization to deal with.  They exemplify what perfection is.  I laugh saying all this because as a kid I was a Mets fan! [Laughs loudly]

Dan, whenever we get together you always ask what has been our greatest accomplishment.  Well, it’s being recognized as a partner by the greatest franchise in the Major Leagues, the greatest franchise in all of professional sports.  I work closely with Mike Tusiani (VP, Corporate Sales and Sponsorships) and Brian Smith (Sr. VP, Corporate/Community Relations) at the Yankees – and others; and they have all been great! 

dib:

If your sponsorship deal with the Yankees is your greatest accomplishment, what has been your greatest challenge over the past two years?

JM:

Dealing with the growing pains, beginning with the fact that I don’t have the budgets of my bigger competitors.  The economy has also presented challenges – not in our day-to-day sales, but in terms of getting access to credit and finding a quality partner in the financial services industry.  Demand for our products has remained strong, but getting the credit to meet that demand has been challenging.  Beyond that, our manufacturing and distribution have been good.  Most of our product lines, other than our bats, are manufactured in Asia.  Just like any other business, there have been ups and downs, but overall our overseas manufacturers have come through for us.  The economy did play a role in our staffing.  We expanded and then had to consolidate when the downturn hit, but we still have a larger staff than two years ago.  When I first started out, it was just me, Duke (Covone), my mom and my dog.  Now we have thirteen people in our office; and I would say the biggest challenge is learning to lead and manage all those different personalities. 

dib:

Not only are you dealing with a much larger staff, but your personal circumstances have changed over the last two years.

JM:

Yeah!  I got married and I’m a dad now.  Being a dad has been an unbelievable experience.  It’s been great.  My son is two; and he’s a ball of energy.  Family has changed my whole outlook on life – especially in terms of my priorities.  Now, I look forward to getting home and spending time with my wife and kids.  I also have a step son.  The things I do in business now are not only for me, but for my family as well.  I really have a great family.  My wife, Jessie, is supportive of everything I do.  I’m really blessed.  Go to any of our tournaments and you’ll see my wife there with our son.  It’s great!

dib:

I’m delighted to know your family is such a meaningful and positive part of your life.  As you look ahead, Jorge, to our next interview – say, in two or three years – where do you see Verdero?

JM:

I’m hoping we won’t have the supply/demand problems we have now! [Laughs] 

I really envision us being a major player in sporting goods; and I would like to see Verdero become a household name in terms of our baseball line.  Once we achieve that goal, I’d like for us to branch out into other sports and become a household name in those sports as well.  I’d really love for people to say Verdero makes great baseball products, so you know they also make great soccer products.  Basically, I’m talking about being on par with Nike and Adidas. 

dib:

Jorge, you know I am very fond of you, your organization and your dream. You are out there on the frontlines, breaking ground and making a real difference.  I wish you and your company continued success.  I look forward to updating our readers on your achievements in another two to three years.

JM:

Thanks, Dan. I appreciate your support.