The University of the Fraser Valley athletic department has struck a partnership with University Baseball Academy of Chilliwack to launch a club baseball program in 2016-17.

The UFV Cascades Baseball Club will become the sixth team in the Canadian College Baseball Conference (CCBC), and will play out of Chilliwack’s Fairfield Island Park.

University Baseball Academy began operations last summer and played an exhibition schedule in the CCBC in 2015-16. The program has obtained full CCBC membership status for the 2016-17 season. Under the new affiliation agreement with UFV, University Baseball Academy will continue to cover all operating costs for the team, while the Cascades athletic department will provide general support for the student-athletes.

“Baseball has strong roots in the Fraser Valley, with many players moving on to post-secondary or professional leagues,” noted Steve Tuckwood, UFV director of athletics and campus recreation. “This group has had a solid first year and has proven they can compete in their league. We’re excited to see where things go, and we’re pleased to bring 30 student-athletes to UFV.”

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