The Bellingham Bells will start providing a new youth baseball initiative in Whatcom County in spring 2025. The Junior Bells Development Program (JBDP) led by several local coaches will offer leagues, camps and other learning opportunities to kids ages 5–8.
Also, new Bells head coach Ed Knaggs will help direct coaches and baseball instruction.
“We wanted to be a part of helping make Whatcom County a place where there are opportunities for young athletes to participate in baseball,” Bells general manager Stephanie Morrell said. “It is a new take on what the Bells are planning to do to support youth baseball.”
For the first season, each division will be capped at 12 teams, and no more than 12 players per team or eight players per camp. The 5–6 age division will involve a coach tossing from close proximity to the plate, while the 7–8 division will be a coach pitching from the mound.
The JBDP will be a 10-week program, costing $150, and practices and games will be held at Joe Martin Stadium. Scholarships will be available through an application process. Each team will have one practice and one game per week. The spring baseball league will run from April 14 to June 14.
The beginner camp will run April 8–9 and the advanced camp will run April 9–11.
“Our organizational mission is to create a positive environment where kids not only get to play the sport they love but also develop lifelong skills,” Morrell said. “Baseball is a great way to teach teamwork, discipline and responsibility, and we want to ensure that every player, no matter their experience level, has a chance to play the game we all love.”
Each participant will receive a Bells branded team jersey and hat, Bellingham Bells Kids Club membership and recognition at a Bells game.
“Our hope is we will grow the program as these athletes grow,” Morrell said. “For right now, it is for families to have the opportunity to compete in a baseball league at the younger level.”
Registration for the league is open now, and players can sign up through the league’s official website at JuniorBells.com.
Nick Zeller-Singh is CDN's sports reporter; reach him at nickzellersingh@cascadiadaily.com; 360-922-3090 ext. 104.
