Play ball! Baseball clubs unite to launch Surrey Whalley Bears on opening days
Published 12:00 pm Tuesday, April 14, 2026
Opening-day ceremonies were held at baseball parks in Whalley and Guildford on the weekend of April 11-12.
Saturday, another season of Whalley Little League was launched at Whalley Athletic Park, where players arrived in full uniform for annual opening-day festivities.
Sunday, Surrey Canadian Baseball Association launched its 51st season at Lionel Courchene Park, on 154 Street in Guildford.
“Registration is up 23 per cent this year,” noted David Leavers, SCBA president.
“The energy at the park today was unmatched, and seeing those jerseys back on the field reminds us why we love this game,” raved Surrey Canadian’s Facebook page, where photos are posted.
“What a home-run of a day!”
This season the two baseball clubs in North Surrey partnered to create “a unified pathway” for high school-aged players. For 2026, a co-ordinated program will see players compete in BC Minor Baseball under the name Surrey Whalley Bears, in four divisions (15U A, 15U AA, 18U AA and 18U AAA).
The goal is to help Surrey teens continue to play baseball.
“Combining our strengths means more opportunities, better development and a higher level of play for our athletes,” Leavers says.
Likewise, Whalley Little League president Clint Stewart embraces the new Bears program.
“Today was a special day at the ballpark,” Stewart said. “The park (in Whalley) was full, and our partnership with Surrey Canadian Baseball Association was very well received. Super proud that two leagues have one goal: Create more opportunities for our children.… As I always say, ‘It’s for the kids.’”
Last November, the end of Newton Canadian Baseball Association led to donations of gear and other equipment to Surrey Canadian, the minor baseball association in Fleetwood/Guildford.
Registration for Whalley Little League is done on whalleylittleleague.com, Surrey Canadian Baseball Association on surreycanadian.com.