-Nanaimo, BC

There has been lots of change taking place in the Hub City on Vancouver Island.  The Vancouver Island Mariners home field, Serauxmen Stadium has undergone major renovations and more importantly the program has a new head coach in Nathan Wedgewood.  The VIU alum replaces Nic Salahub and transitions from assistant coach to the new bench boss.  "I'm extremely passionate about becoming the head coach," adds Wedgewood, "It has been a goal of mine since my play days (played at VIU), and couldn't be more excited."

Wedgewood takes over the Mariners program that finished in 8th place.  Despite their regular season regular there is lots of positives for the Mariners program.  The program finished the 2023 regular season in a much more positive fashion, going 7-5 over their last 12 and headed into the Canadian College World Series with some momentum.  Other positives are key returning pieces to the Mariners lineup.  James Joyce returns as a major threat at the plate and anchor at short stop.  Utility Alex McLaughlan and right handed pitcher Caleb Battye will also be looked upon for leadership.  

"I was really proud of our returners and upperclassmen for the leadership they showed this fall.  I'vs seen examples of this leadership on and off the field and I think that is going to be a huge part of our success this year." says Wedgewood.

Leading into the spring the Mariners will also take advantage of an upgraded indoor facility.  In a recent new partnership with Caged Athletics the group is looking forward to a long over due upgrade.  "We are looking forward to taking advantage of this facility and think it will have a huge impact on our preseason training." finished Wedgewood.

Other new faces looking to make an impact after a strong fall will be freshman Spencer Harbourne (1b), Tyler Olfert (C) and Andrew Klassen (RHP).  All three were major factors to a 7-5 fall record that saw the team hit .272, 6hr and out score their opponents 100-84.

The Mariners will kick off their 2024 season on the road at Okanagan College against the Coyotes on Friday March 29th @ 6:00pm at Elks Stadium, Kelowna. BC

The CCBC Opening weekend kicks off with all 8 teams in action.  Stay tuned as more season previews and the annual coaches poll get released.