Mississauga North 18U AA: A Two-Year Journey of Growth, Grit and Friendship

The Mississauga North 18U AA team’s 2025 season came to a close in the playoffs, finishing as one of the top four teams in the division. Their playoff run was as competitive as it was emotional, defeating the top three teams in the standings (Oakville, Burlington, and Erindale) before falling in a heartbreaking walk-off to Milton and later being eliminated by Erindale.

This season had no shortage of accomplishments. The team put together an incredible 18-game win streak, captured one tournament championship and were finalists in two others. Those milestones speak to both their consistency and their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

How It Started

My connection to this group goes back long before these players put on their Mississauga North jerseys. Assistant Coach Gary Costa has known me my entire life, he was friends with my cousin and older brothers, and years ago, when his son was playing for Martingrove, he brought me in to work with that team. When Gary and his son later joined Mississauga North, he suggested to Head Coach Darnell that I could help train the team in the off-season and continue to support them during the season. That was two years ago and since then, I’ve been fortunate to be part of their baseball journey.

Building a Team of Students of the Game

When I first started with this group, they were tough, rugged and not overly interested in listening to instruction. But over time, they bought in. They became students of the game, players who not only executed but also understood the “why” behind each decision on the field.

They were also a lot of fun to watch. Their banter, enthusiasm and passion to compete was something special, the kind of energy most teams don’t have. It was infectious and in many ways, enviable, because that drive and joy for the game is what will make them successful in life beyond baseball.

Every team is made up of different personalities and skill sets and while this group kept the core of players from last season, they welcomed five new players this year. Those new additions were accepted right away and together they became a tight-knit unit, playing as if they had known each other for years. Seeing that bond form was just as rewarding as watching their skills develop.

A Word About the Coaching Staff

Working alongside Head Coach Darnell has been a privilege. His dedication, attention to detail and commitment to his players stood out from day one. Coaching at this level isn’t just about running practices or making lineup decisions, it’s about managing personalities, building a culture and shouldering the pressure when it counts. Darnell did all of that and more and I’m grateful for the trust and friendship we’ve built along the way.

And to Gary, thank you for once again opening the door for me to work with a group you care so much about. Without that connection, I wouldn’t have had the chance to share in these past two years.

Final Thoughts

This team’s season was defined by resilience, competitiveness and a willingness to grow. The wins, the streaks and the championships are impressive, but the relationships built and lessons learned will last even longer.

Here’s to the Mississauga North 18U AA team, for their grit, their growth and for making the last two seasons an experience I’ll never forget.