Team News

The Man with the Golden Glove

KP Hlatky
Photo Jerald Walliser

Royals’ center fielder KP Hlatky’s stellar defensive play has led to his selection as Gold Glove player in the NWAACC’s North Region while teammates Chandler McLaren, Sean Callegari and Sheldon Sinnott all earned second-team all-star honors.

Hlatky’s long-range arm and skill at making key catches made him the unanimous choice with conference voters.

“Every team in the conference voted for KP as the top defensive center fielder and he also hit over .300,” offered Douglas coach Cavangh Whitely.

“He made numerous game-saving cataches and has attracted some MLB scouts and university attention for his tremendous speed and arm strength. He works extremely hard and puts his body on the line everyday in practice.”

Outfielder Chandler led the Royals with a .341 batting average and was named Douglas’ baseball athlete of the year.

As a starting pitcher, Callegari led the squad with 50 strikeouts and started his Royals career with five consecutive wins. He will hone his pitching skills this summer playing for the Langley Blaze Pacific International team.

Sinnott, shortstop, contributed several game-winning hit and great speed on defensive. He will play this summer in Edmonton in the Western Major Baseball League.

“He is relentless in his pursuit of becoming a great player,” says Whitely.

“Overall it was a great season for our guys even though we fell one game short of the playoffs,” he added. “We are returning 17 player off this year's roster and we have 15 recruits already committed for the Fall.”

Closing loss a costly loss

Shane Kelly
Photo Jerald Walliser

The Douglas men’s baseball team final loss of the season was the toughest.

Needing a two-game sweep over Skagit Valley to earn a playoff spot, the Royals opened with a gutsy 1-0 extra-inning win before falling 9-5 to the Cardinals in the closing game.

The results at Whalley Athletic Park pushed the Royals Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges record to 9-15, one win short of their first ticket to the post-season.

Sophomore right-hander Chris Foreman pitched the shutout in the Royals’ opening win, staying on the mound despite being stung by a hard hit in the third inning.

“Chris pitched the game of his career,” said Royals coach Cavanagh Whitely.

Shayne Kelly’s double in the bottom of the extra frame scored Brad Clarke for the winning run and set up the must-win second game.

The Cardinals outhit the Royals 14-8 and outscored them 9-5 in the closer. Jeremy Kral cracked a bases-loaded double for Douglas in a four-run second inning, but the Royals stranded nine base runners in the game to seal the decision. Right-hander Brendan Clark was tagged with the loss.

Coming oh-so close already has the team looking forward to the next campaign.

“In the end, this is the first time that the program has had a chance play for their lives in the final game of the season,” said Whitely. “Although this is disappointing, there were a number of bright spots throughout the season and the coaching staff is excited about the 19 returning players and top-shelf recruits already signed for next fall.”

Baseball Royals setting sites on playoffs

Despite missing seven tune-up games due to rainy weather, the Royals opened the regular season with a 3-0 record. Douglas swept a series from Olympic College 7-3, 1-0, 1-0 and grabbed second place in the Northwest Athletic Association of Community Colleges’ North Region.

Douglas is the lone Canadian team in the league and head coach Cavanagh Whitely is hopeful the fast start can help the Royals gain an elusive slot in the post-season for the first time.

“Our goal this year is to upset a couple of the Big Four - Skagit Valley, Edmonds, Everett and Bellevue - and get into one of the four playoff spots for the NWAACC Regional tournament,” says Whitely.

“This year’s team is young but we have a great mix of power and speed. Our offense is our strong point as we have shown the ability to score runs but we lack depth in the pitching department so every pitcher must contribute and stay healthy for us to have success.”

Outfielders are expected to spark the offense, led by right fielder Chandler McLaren of Guelph, Ont, a Major League Baseball late-round draft pick of the Milwaukee Brewers in 2009. Center fielder K. P. Hlatky of Gibsons, BC bats in the lead-off spot and displays the tremendous acceleration required in the position, and coincidentally leads the team in stolen bases.

Left-hander Sean Callegari of Richmond is laying claims to be the team’s pitching ace with a 3-0 record.

“Sean has improved a ton over the off-season and his velocity has jumped to the mid-80s with a great slider that’s difficult to pick up for hitters,” says Whitely.

Surrey’s Sheldon Sinnott, shortstop, is another player to watch after transferring to Douglas from an academy in the Dominican Republic.

“Sheldon has the tools to play professional baseball and is learning to use them in a game,” offered Whitely.

The Royals play their home games at Whalley Athletic Park on weekends in a season that runs at the end of May. Get the full schedule and latest team results at: http://www.ballcharts.com/teams/schedule.php?team=douglascollege

DC Baseball Announce New Skipper

Cavanaugh Whitely

The Douglas College Centre for Campus Life is pleased to announce that Cavanagh Whitely has been named the Head Coach for the Royals Men’s Baseball Program.

Coach Whitely is a native of Prince George, BC and just completed his 10th season as a part of the UBC Thunderbirds baseball program. He has worked the last 7 years as a specialist coach in charge of infield, offensive systems development, and the Thunderbirds mental skills training program.

From 2004-2010, Whitely served as the full-time assistant to head coach Terry McKaig and was a integral part of UBC’s impressive run to a fourth-place finish at the NAIA World Series in 2006. It was the first time a Canadian team ever competed for a US National Championship. He was also the head of recruiting for the T-Birds, the facility coordinator and head instructor of the Mizuno School of Baseball at UBC, and the organizer for the UBC summer camp program.

Whitely is also highly involved in community baseball programs. The Coaching Association of Canada awarded him a position as a High Performance Consultant with Baseball BC, and he is currently a coach with both Team BC and the National team program that competes during the summer. He has coached with Team Canada from 2003- 2006 at the Grand Forks International Baseball Tournament and at the 2008 and 2010 World University Championships. Cavanagh is also an active Baseball BC NCCP level four clinician and evaluator. “I’m looking forward to taking over the Royals Baseball program here at Douglas College. The NWAACC is a very competitive conference that gives Canadian ball players a great opportunity to showcase their skills. Our goal here will be to develop student-athletes to meet their potential on and off the field and allow them to move on to good four year programs or even to the professional ranks.” mentioned Whitely.

As a player, Whitely was recruited by the National Baseball Institute and started his college career at Douglas under Coach John Haar. After two solid seasons there, he transferred and spent three successful years on the UBC squad from 1999-2002, playing every infield position while holding down a career batting average of over .300. Whitely has also spent time in the Australia pro league, playing for the Padres organization in Queensland from 2002 to 2003 while concurrently serving as a Director of Coaching and Development Officer for Baseball Australia.

“Cavanagh brings a wealth of experience and expertise in dealing with student-athletes both as a coach and as a faculty member at Douglas in with the Student Success courses. We look forward in having him bring his knowledge to, an already vibrant coaching staff at the College.” stated Dean Howie the Director of Athletics and Campus Life.

Cavanagh currently lives in Vancouver and has his Master’s Degree in Human Kinetics from the University of British Columbia

2010-11 Season ushers new era for Baseball

With numerous highly qualified applicants seeking the head coaching position of the Douglas College Royals Baseball team, the prospects look bright for a program that enters into its 10th year of operations.

"We have really come a long way with our baseball program" begins Athletic Director Dean Howie. "We are pleased at the success that we have had being one of the only schools to compete south of the border in a very competitive NWACC league".

"As we move into our 10th year of providing student-athletes with elite baseball opportunities within the lower mainland, we are focused on continuing our support for the Royals Baseball team while meeting the standards of excellence in both academic and athletic avenues." commented Dean.

More information will be posted in the following days regarding the hiring of the new coach.

Royals Looking for New Head Coach

Applications are now being accepted from qualified coaches looking to take the Head Coaching reigns of our baseball team. Application deadline is June 4, 2010.

Download an application

Josh Ridgway resigns as Head Baseball Coach

Josh Ridgway
Photo by Jerald Waliser

Douglas College Baseball Head Coach, Josh Ridgway, has resigned from his head coaching duties after three successful seasons. During his tenure, Josh increased the exposure and profile of Douglas College Baseball, setting new standards for teams in academics and dedication on the field.

“We wish Josh and his family, the best of luck in their future endeavors. Although we are saddened by his departure, we are pleased with the direction Josh and his coaching staff have been able to take the program, quickly becoming a premiere baseball program in the lower mainland“ said Athletic Director, Dean Howie.

“I would like to take the opportunity to thank Douglas College for giving me the chance to coach at the collegiate level. I want to especially thank Dean Howie and the Centre for Campus Life and Athletics Staff for their commitment to the baseball program and all their passion and hard work throughout the season. The experience for me personally was one of the greatest challenges that I’ve accomplished and fee the program has come a long way to establishing itself as a quality place for aspiring student-athletes to get a solid education, while playing elite college baseball” commented Josh.

“Our players and coaches should be commended for their commitment to the classroom and dedication on the field these past three years, as we have left it for the next group to continue building one of the top baseball programs in the country” added Josh.

Royals swept by North Champs Edmonds

Parker Forch
Photo by Jerald Waliser

The Douglas College Royals fell 4 games to the Edmonds Community College Tritons this weekend. Needing a sweep and Everett to sweep Skagit Valley the Royals were in tough this weekend. Game 1 saw Edmonds prolific junp put to an 8-0 lead before the Royals rallied to make the game close several times. Everytime the Royals scored Edmonds answered back and the Tritons won the game 12-8. Adam Masse and Rylan Chin had 2 hits each for the Royals. Game 2 saw the Royals jump out to the early lead but the Edmonds offense responded big in the late innings taking the game 7-5. Brent Lawrence, Ryan Saunders and Parker Forch all had 2 hits for the Royals in the losing cause.

Heading back to Canada with no hope of the playoffs the Royals came out flat in game 1. Downed by a score of 10-0 the Royals only managed 4 hits, 2 by Parker Forch. Game 2 saw a lot more hits for the Royals as 4 players, Parker Forch, Rylan Chin, Grant Malm and Derek Wallace all had 2 hits for Douglas. The double play ball struck te Royals 3 times in key situations and they fell 7-3 to close out the series. Good luck to all the Douglas players in their summer leagues such as the Western Major Baseball League, BC junior Mens and BC Metro League.

Royals Split with Rangers

Rylan Chin
Photo by Jerald Waliser

A scheduling conflict started the Royals series with the Olympic College Rangers earlier than expected this weekend. Friday, instead of Saturday was the first double header, played at Whalley Stadium. Game 1 saw a brilliant pitching performance from Taylor Kipnes, who only gave up 2 hits and 0 earned runs. 7 different Royals contributed 1 hit each for a 2-1 victory.

Game 2 saw the Rangers jump out to an 8-0 lead before any response from the Royals. In the 8th inning Douglas College rallied for a 5 spot but in the end came up short and lost an 8-5 decision. Rylan Chin had a single and a double for the Royals.

Day 2 started with a long bus ride to Bremerton, Wa. Jeff Mottl started for the Royals in Game 1 but thanks to a lack of run support and a 7th inning rally from the Rangers, ended up with a loss despite giving up only 2 hits. Mac Dagleish had 2 hits in the 3-2 loss.

Game 2 saw an offensive explosion from the Royals as clearly they were angry at their previous play. The Royals scored runs in their first 5 innings as they jumped out to a 10-3 lead. Mike Fuller got the win pitching 7 innings giving up 1 earned run and Nathan Kirby pitched 2 scoreless innings of relief. Grant Malm went 4-6 with 4 RBI falling a homer short of the cycle.

Next weekend is the Royals bye before they wrap up the season against Edmonds Community College. The Royals need a sweep and some losses from the teams in front to make the playoffs.

Royals take 3 of 4 from Dolphins

Antonio Paolini
Photo by Jerald Waliser

The Royals set out to Shoreline Community College on Sunday thanks to a rainout that postponed the Royals home games until Monday. While the series started out on a bad note, the Royals recoverd and have a 3 game winning streak heading into a 4 game showdown with the Olympic College Rangers starting this Friday at Whalley Stadium.

Game 1 at Shoreline saw a 5-2 loss for the Royals. Shoreline jumped out to a 5-0 and Douglas couldnt complete the comeback, losing 5-2 despite out-hitting the Dolphins 9-6. Adam Masse and Aaron Wagner both had two hits in the loss.

Game 2 saw Douglas strike for 2 in the first inning but were effectively shut down until the 9th inning with the score tied 2-2. Rylan Chin knocked in Mitchell Frey with 1 out in the 9th to take a 3-2 lead and Brandon Ross struck out 3 in the bottom of the 9th to preserve the win. Jon Winick had a strong outing pitching 6 2/3 getting a no decision while only giving up 1 earned run. Brandon Ross got the win with 4 K's in 2 1/3 innings.

Heading back to Canada for games 3 and 4 the Royals were looking for a sweep to stay in the playoff hunt. Shoreline started out hot scoring 3 runs off starter Jeff Mottl, who had only given up 2 in his last 3 games combined. Mottl settled down and ended up with a W and 5 strikeouts as the Royals completed the comeback and won 4-3. Grant Malm went 3-3 with 2 RBI. Brandon Ross came in to get the save, pitching two perfect innings.

Game 2, once again, saw the Dolphins jump out to another 3-1 lead off starter Mike Fuller. Once again though, the Royals fought back scoring 4 in the 7th and 1 in the 8th to win the game. Mike Fuller found his groove in the last 5 innings and ended up with a win and 8 innings to his credit. Nathan Kirby picked up the save for the Royals. Antonio Paolini, Rylan Chin and Mitchell Frey all had 2 hits for the Royals. The Royals also stole a season high 5 bags in the game and 8 for the day.

Royals take 2 from defending champion Bellevue Bulldogs

Ryan Saunders
Photo by Jerald Waliser

The Royals faced off against the Bellevue Community College Bulldogs this weekend and for the 3rd consecutive year came away with a 2-2 record. Games 1 and 2 took place down in Bellevue Wa. as the Royals opened on the road for the 3rd straight week.

Game 1 was a blowout in favour of the Bulldogs, the final score was 8-0. Derek Wallace and Brent Lawrence had 4 of the Royals 5 hits. Game 2 saw a completely different story as the Royals jumped out to a 5-0 lead after one inning. They never look back and won the game 9-1 on an outstading perfromance from Taylor Kipnes, who racked up 10 strikeouts in 8 magnificent innings. Rylan Chin, Adam Masse, Aaron Wagner, Mitchell Frey and Oscar Rodriguez all had multiple hits for the Royals.

At home for the final two games of the series the Royals found themseleves in a heated pitching duel for game 1. Once again Jeffrey Mottl came out on top with a complete game, 1 hitter with 7 strikeouts, to win 1-0. Ryan Saunders delivered the last inning heroics with a walk-off single to score pinch-runner Antonio Paolini.

Game 2 was also a nail-biter coming down to the last inning, but this time the Bulldogs prevailed by a score of 4-2. Mike Fuller had another outstanding start giving up 1 earned run in 6 innings. Derek Wallace, Aaron Wagner and Adam Masse once again had multiple hit games as the Royals managed to outhit Bellevue 9-6 but still wound up on the losing side.

The Royals are now 4-8 in conference play and look to make up some ground against the Shoreline Community College Dolphins this weekend. The Royals are home on Saturday (1pm, 330pm) at Whalley Stadium and then head to the Seattle area on Sunday for the last two games of the series.

Baseball in tough vs. Trojans

Grant Malm
Photo by Jerald Waliser

The Douglas College Baseball team squared off against the Everett Trojans this weekend, starting in everett then heading home for the final two games. Everett is well known for their pitching and it proved tough to score runs again as the Royal mustered only 7 runs in 4 games offensivley.

In game one the Royals were shut down offensivley and Everett put up 5 runs in the 2nd inning. The game ended 8-1 and the Royals could only muster 4 hits. Game 2 was a different story for the Royals as they were able to put up 15 hits. Despite the barrage of hits they could only manage to score 3 runs. The final score was 7-3 in favour of Everett. Antonio Paolini and Adam Masse had 3 hits each and Bruce Biro scored 2 of the Royals 3 runs.

The Royals returned home on Sunday hoping to get a couple W's against the Trojans. The first game was an outstanding pitching performance from Jeff Mottl. Jeff threw a complete game giving up only 2 hits in a shutout 1-0 win for the Royals. Grant Malm knocked in Brent Lawrence for the only run of the ball game.

In the second game Mike Fuller had another outstanding perfromance for the Royals pitching staff going 7 innings allowing only 4 hits and 0 runs. Unfortunatley Everett scored 3 runs in the last 2 innings of the game and won the game 3-2. The game was very heated, involving an ejection and cleared benches in the 8th inning. The Royals left 12 men on base in the disapointing loss. The Royals play defending NWAACC champions Bellevue Community College this weekend.

Baseball Struggles in Home Opener

Jeff Mottl
Photo by Jerald Waliser

The Douglas College Royals ran into some tough luck on the weekend, losing 3 of 4 to the defending NWAACC north champs Skagit Valley College Cardinals. The first game of the weekend, in Mount Vernon, WA was a tight affair with the Cardinals squeaking out a come from behind 2-1 victory. Jon Winick pitched an excellent game and went all 6 innings. Game 2 saw the Royals jump out to a 4-0 lead after one inning and they never looked back, winning 9-6. Rylan Chin was 4-4 with 2 walks and Taylor Kipnes picked up his 2nd win of the season going 8 strong innings. The next day the Royals hosted the Cards in the home opener at Whalley Stadium. The first game was a similar 2-1 score also going in the Cardinals favour. Jeff Mottl threw a 2 hitter but a lack of run support gives him the loss. Chin chipped in 3 more hits in this game. Game 2 was a lopsided affair as Skagit Valley racked up 12 runs on 20 hits and took the game 12-3. The Royals take on the Everett CC Trojans this weekend with home games once again being on Sunday at Whalley Stadium.

2010 Season Outlook

Behind the Plate

With freshman standout and 2nd Team All-Conference C Will Thorp leaving for NAIA powerhouse Lewis and Clark State, the Royals will have 3 freshman calling pitches behind the plate.

If Oscar Rodriguez can stay healthy, he will be one of the top catchers in the conference. He receives well and likes to be active when runners are on base.

Aaron Wagner is a workhorse. Comes to play every day and has made huge strides in the fall and off-season. He makes our teammates better.

Antonio Paolini was not recruited to come to Douglas as a catcher, but has shown he can fill in when needed and also play in the middle of the field. He has the ability to hit at the top of the line-up and needs to get on base to contribute.

On the Bump

After graduating Toronto Blue Jays draft pick and UBC transfer Brandon Kaye, two-time 2nd Team All-Conference Utility/RHP and Campbellsville University transfer Mike Caleb, the Royals staff have plenty of candidates to fill those huge gaps left behind.

Swiss born RHP Jeff Mottl has been our most improved pitcher over the past 6 months. He’s now topping out at 91mph and gains more confidence every time he walks onto the mound. Look for him to pitch in our most important games.

LHP Jon Winick returns as one of our 3 representatives at the NWAACC All-Star Game. Jon commands a good change-up and if he can spot his fastball, will be one of the top pitchers on our staff. He likes to work fast, which keeps our defence on their toes.

Clarendon College transfer RHP Jeff Schmidt adds depth to our starting rotation. He has a sharp curveball and mid 80’s fastball. When he’s on, he can be great.

RHP Mike Fuller is our most fearless pitcher we have. He goes out and throws his guts out and players like playing behind because he throws strikes and gets lots of action for our fielders.

In the Bullpen

Closer RHP Nathan Kirby made some interesting adjustments in his delivery this summer and has seen drastic results in his outings. After dropping down to side-arm, Nathan gives hitters a tough angle to pick up the ball and has been dominating at times.

LHP Brandon Ross was outstanding last year out of the bullpen. He can command his change-up, and keeps runners close with a good pick-off move. He will need to be that good again this year for us to have success.

Freshman RHP Taylor Kipnes is unorthodox in his delivery and gives hitters an uneasy look at his pitches. When focused, he can be dominating. He will get better the more experience he gains.

Also Swiss born Freshman RHP Beni Montag comes into the season raw and inexperienced. He will though, see innings because he improves through his attitude and his coach ability. He needs to be sharp every outing to help us.

2-way players LHP Derek Wallace, LHP Adam Masse and RHP Grant Malm will add depth to our staff. They are athletic, can throw strikes and will be a huge part of our team’s success.

In the Pits

Lead by NWAACC All-Star 2B Rylin Chin, the versatile infielder can change the outcome of a game through his bat, his glove and his outstanding speed. He will be looked upon to be one of our leaders on the field.

Frank Phillips transfer DH/1B Ryan Saunders has a big swing and can also change the outcome of a game. His swing have gotten a lot better since the fall and he has worked hard to get himself into the middle of our line-up.

1B/LHP Derek Wallace is inspiring. He brings his lunch pale everyday and plays like a “dirtbag.” He gives our infielder’s confidence knowing that he can catch everything and anything thrown his way. Look for Derek to be one of the leaders on the field as well.

SS Mitch Frey is our “sparkplug.” He’s improved his footwork and glove drastically since his freshman year. He works extremely hard and is our voice on the field. Look for Mitch to have a great year.

3B Parker Forch is our most improved position player. He gains more confidence everyday he plays. He is a quite leader through his actions and has worked extremely hard to get where is at.

Freshman UTL James Zamko is a heady ballplayer with a high IQ in baseball. Can play every position on the field, runs well, and has a good arm. He has worked at his swing and strength all off-season. He can put the pressure on the sophomores to be focused and hard-working because he waiting to get his chance.

Near the Warning Track

Speedy OF Brent Lawrence can play both CF and RF because of his speed and arm strength. He can impact a game with the power in his bat. If he’s motivated, he can be the best OF in the league.

NWAACC All-Star LF/RHP Grant Malm is our most gifted player on our team. He has a PRO frame and polished swing from the left side, plus he’s 87mph on the hill. Needs to stay aggressive and determined because when does, he can be the most dominating hitter we have.

OF Bruce Biro is the type of player that every team needs to have. He listens, works hard and when he is in control of himself, can contribute with his speed and ability to get on base. He’s a solid teammate through maturity and positivity.

OF Mackenzie Dalgleish can be our best defensive outfielder. If he can stay fearless, he gets such good read on fly-balls, he can help our team defence tremendously. He has made adjustments to his swing which can get power and contact more consistently.

Freshman OF Adam Masse pushes our teammates to be better through his attitude and work ethic. He has put on 20 pounds of muscle through the off-season and you can notice that in both his swing and his arm since the fall. He will be tough to keep out of the line-up.

Freshman OF Steven Steel is improving every day. He’s aggressive in the OF and is one of our top 3 fastest players we have. He will need to be one of our best base runners, as he can impact a game through his speed.

For the coaching staff, this has been one of the most enjoyable groups of players to work with. They all work together, like each other and play hard. When it’s all said and done, we believe this will be one of the most memorable teams the baseball program has ever had.

Where are they NOW???

Mike Caleb
Photo by Jerald Waliser

As the college baseball seasons begin begin across North America, three former Douglas College baseball players from the 2009 team are taking aim at establishing themselves in their new surroundings. Toronto Blue Jays draft pick (45th round) RHP Brandon Kaye is attending the University of British Columbia at the Point Grey Campus. The T-Birds, coached by Terry McKaig, will be looking for Brandon to be an impact pitcher for them this spring.

Two - time NWAACC 2nd Team ALL CONFERENCE SS/RHP Mike Caleb will be attending the Campbellsville University in Kentucky. Mike will continue his duties in the infield, as well as on the mound. Last year’s standout Freshman and 2nd Team ALL CONFERENCE C Will Thorp is attending NAIA powerhouse Lewis and Clark State. Coached by the legendary Ed Cheff, the sophomore looks to make his impression felt on the always competitive Warriors line-up.

Three Selected to NWAACC All-Star Game

This year's NWAACC All-star game between the North vs. the East takes place at Longview, WA Saturday, September 26th at David Storey Field. Douglas College had 3 players selected based on their year they had as freshman. Led by INF Rylin Chin (Strathmore, AB) LHP Jon Winick (Delta, BC) and RHP Grant Malm (Coquitlam, BC) they will play in front of dozens of NCAA, NAIA and MLB scouts and have an opportunity to showcase their talents amongst the best in the NWAACC.

DC Players drafted to the Big Leagues

Brandon Kaye
Photo by Jerald Waliser

Sophomore Brandon Kaye was selected in this year’s 2009 June Draft by the Toronto Blue Jays, the same team his half-brother, Scott Richmond plays for. The 6’4, 210 RHP, has committed to play for Terry Mckaig at the University of British Columbia and is currently playing for the Okotoks Dawgs of the Western Major Collegiate League in Alberta. Brandon will be closely followed this summer, as the club has until August 15th to sign him.

Former Douglas College and NWACC All-Conference player Bobby Wagner (2006)was also selected in the Draft. The 6’3, 210 3B, who played under former Head Coach Gerig Merritt, was chosen in the 38th Round by the Chicago Cubs. Bobby played at Panola College in Texas last season. Congratulations on this exciting achievement to both of you!

NWAACC Announces All-Conference Selections

Stevi Prosser
Photo by Jerald Waliser

Two of the Douglas College Royals baseball team members received Second Team All – Conference awards based on their play in the 2009 season. Freshman C Will Thorp led the Royals in batting AVG. (.340), 2B (8), SB (12), HBP (12) and 2nd in RBI (19). Sophomore SS/RHP Mike Caleb was voted by NWAACC coaches for the second consecutive year as a utility player. Caleb hit .310 and was 3-3 with a 3.33 ERA this season before breaking his thumb in week 6.

Quite a studious bunch!!!

ast night, the men's baseball team took home the Douglas College Academic Team of the Year Award by passing 119-121 classes for a 97% success rate and a Team GPA of 2.65. Head Coach Josh Ridgway, "The standard has been set for the Douglas College Baseball team and that the value of education is first and foremost to our players."

• Other Recipients:
• Jesse Penner Award - In Memory of former Douglas College player who demonstrates leadership and team spirit: Bruce Biro (Bowser, BC), Tyler Dechka (Coquitlam, BC), Jeff Mottl (Zurich, SW), Jack Thompson (Coquitlam, BC), Rylin Chin (Strathmore, AB)
• Gord Ellis Memorial Award - For excellence in community service and commitment to Baseball: Will Thorp (Surrey, BC)
• Coaches of BC scholarship - Highest Team GPA: Bart Kitson (3.66) & Kyle Boyko (3.55) BC Little League Award- Player who played in a Little League Organization growing up and demonstrates leadership and strong work ethic: Chris Foreman (Coquitlam, BC)