As the 2024 baseball season comes to a close in Ontario, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible journey of growth, competition and success that I’ve had the privilege to be part of. Working with several talented teams and athletes I am grateful for the opportunity to have been involved in their development. Each team, each player and each moment contributed to an unforgettable season. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights.
This year, I had the pleasure of working with several Vaughan Vikings teams: 17U AA, 14U AAA, 13U AAA and 13U A. Each team brought something special to the field and their dedication was evident from the start of the season through to their respective playoff runs.
The 17U AA Vaughan Vikings continued to build on their foundations with players pushing themselves to new heights. Watching them develop throughout the season and reach key milestones was incredibly rewarding top 4 in Ontario.
The 14U AAA Vaughan Vikings enjoyed a remarkable season that culminated in their victory at the YSBA Playoffs. Their determination and teamwork have consistently shone through game after game. Having trained with this group throughout the year I’m proud to see how far they’ve come and can’t wait to see how they perform in the future.
At the 13U AAA level the Vaughan Vikings displayed grit and talent in every game. I had the pleasure of helping this team through their off-season training and also served as a guest coach during their remarkable third-place finish at the Elimination Tournament. Their resilience and fighting spirit in a tournament that began with adversity was a testament to their heart and passion for the game.
The 13U A Vaughan Vikings also showed tremendous growth throughout the year. Working with this team was a true joy as I saw each player improve and take strides in their skillset setting a strong foundation for future success.
Beyond the Vaughan Vikings I had the honor of working with the Mississauga North 17U AA and the Markham Mariners 13U A teams this season. Both teams showcased a love for the game and a commitment to improving with each practice and game. It’s exciting to see these young athletes grow in confidence and skill as they move forward in their baseball journeys.
A huge congratulations to Emma Howorth and Reese Velocci for their incredible achievement in winning the Bronze Medal at the 21U Women’s National Championship, proudly representing Ontario. This prestigious event took place in the picturesque city of Summerside, Prince Edward Island, beginning on August 8th. Reese Velocci made a significant impact throughout the championship, batting an impressive .474 and showcasing her dominance behind the plate. Her performance was nothing short of stellar, making her a key player for Ontario. Emma Howorth also played a vital role in the team’s success, batting .333 and leading by example both on and off the field. Her leadership and consistency were crucial in guiding the team to their podium finish. Having had the pleasure of working with both Emma and Reese over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand their dedication, growth and passion for the game. Their hard work and commitment have truly paid off and they are fully deserving of this accomplishment.
This season also brought a proud moment as two of the athletes I coached in previous years achieved a dream that every young baseball player aspires to: being drafted into Major League Baseball. Congratulations to Brendan Lawson who I had the privilege of coaching at the Canada Summer Games in 2022. His journey to being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 19th round of the 2024 MLB Draft is nothing short of inspirational. His hard work and passion have truly paid off and I couldn’t be more proud. Likewise a big shoutout to Ryan Magdic who I coached at the 2017 Canada Games for being selected by the Oakland A’s in the 14th round. Ryan’s dedication and perseverance have brought him to this incredible achievement and it’s been an honor to have been a part of his development.
As the 2024 season wraps up I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all the teams I’ve worked with this year: Vaughan Vikings 17U AA, 14U AAA, 13U AAA, 13U A, Mississauga North 17U AA and Markham Mariners 13U A. Your commitment, passion and love for the game have been inspiring and I’m excited to see where your baseball journeys will take you in the future. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have played a role in your development this season and I look forward to seeing your continued success on and off the field. Here’s to another great season of Ontario baseball full of memories, achievements and the bright promise of the future!
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