Photos Courtesy of Niki DeSantis

NEWARK, Del. - When the Boston Red Sox begin preparing for their 2010 campaign at the team’s spring training complex in Fort Myers, Florida next week, the reigning American League Wild Card Champions will be graced with the services of Max Orland, a student manager for the University of Delaware baseball team.

Max, who departs for the Sunshine State on Saturday, will complete an internship with the team as a member of the operations and equipment staff. He will be called upon to perform a wide variety of tasks to help assist the organization during their preparations for the upcoming season.

“It’s my lifelong dream to work for the Red Sox,” said Max, who has been a fan of the team since growing up in Westport, Connecticut. “I’m ready for the next step in my life, and this is a great opportunity. I’m just going to go out there and do whatever they need and whatever they ask me to do. I’m going to work hard and keep a positive attitude everyday. I’m very thankful to have this opportunity.”

Since first arriving in Newark in 2006, Max has been a constant fixture in the Delaware athletic department. Despite dealing with disabilities that affect his learning and speech, he has made lasting contributions to the Blue Hens over the past four years.

During his time in Delaware, he has served as a manager on the Blue Hen baseball team while also pulling double-duty as an assistant with the men’s basketball squad. His positive demeanor and undying energy have been hallmarks of his time at the University.

“It’s our loss for the next six weeks when he’s not here,” said Jim Sherman, who is in his 10th season as head coach of the Delaware baseball team. “When Max isn’t around, you realize how much he does. From getting the equipment ready to doing all of the preparations for practices and games, those are all things that we’re going to miss when he leaves. And, obviously, we’re going to miss Max’s humor in the dugout that keeps everyone loose. But I think this is a great opportunity, and I’m very proud of him.”

Along with his dedicated efforts in the athletic department, he has also worked tirelessly in the classroom while accumulating nearly 60 college credits. After concluding his stay with the Boston Red Sox this spring, Max plans to return to Newark to finish out the season as a manager with the Blue Hens.

In addition to his contributions at Delaware, he has also spent time working with the Bridgeport Blue Fish and Pawtucket Red Sox during the summer.

“I’m going to miss Delaware a lot,” said Max, who is pursuing a concentration in sport management at UD. “It’s going to be very hard to leave the baseball team after I’ve been part of the program for four years. I’ve learned a lot here, and the coaches, especially Coach Sherman, have really made me feel like a part of the team. I will miss them all, but I’ll always be checking in and following their season.”