By: Adam Morissette

Canadian Baseball Network

OTTAWA- Baseball Canada is pleased to report that that over 120,000 Canadians played baseball across the country this summer representing an increase of 15,000 participants (14 %) from one year ago.

All 10 Provincial Sport Organization’s for baseball, representing Baseball Canada’s 10 provincial members, reported an increase in registration from their 2015 numbers.

“Obviously this is exciting news and positive for our sport,” said Baseball Canada President, Jason Dickson. “Moving forward, it will be important for our sport to keep the momentum going and build on this growth in the months and years to come.”

Baseball fever swept across Canada in 2015 thanks in large part to the Toronto Blue Jays on field success that carried over into record setting attendance at Rogers Centre in 2016 along with sky-high TV ratings. Baseball, again, became a main part of the conversation for Canadians from coast-to-coast.

“The Blue Jays brand has never been stronger in our country than what it is now and we’ve witnessed it first hand that kids who are Blue Jays fans want to play baseball and be involved with the sport,” added Dickson. “We’re very fortunate to have the Blue Jays’ support through many layers of our day-to-day business. We truly value their partnership.”

Prior to the 2016 season, Baseball Canada reached a historic partnership with Dairy Queen® Canada that saw the fan favourite brand become the exclusive and title sponsor of Baseball Canada’s initiation Rally Cap program, the naming rights sponsor of all three Baseball Canada 13U National Championships, and a Premier Partner of Baseball Canada.

“We’re very happy to report that participation in the DQ® Rally Cap Program jumped by over 3,000 new players in 2016,” said Baseball Canada’s Business and Sport Development Director André Lachance. “This 14% increase represents a huge area of growth for our organization and we look forward to continuing the partnership with Dairy Queen® Canada to make the program available to more players and minor baseball associations.”