The boys from the Bahamas are coming back to Prince George.
Organizers of the 2011 World Baseball Challenge announced Monday that the Bahamas Baseball Federation (BBF) has committed to sending a team to the tournament, July 8-19 at Citizen Field.
At the 2009 WBC, also at Citizen Field, the Bahamian club failed to win a game (0-7) but was a clear favourite of the fans.
"We are so pleased to welcome back the Bahamas -- they were tremendous ambassadors for their association and their country and so many people in Prince George became friends with those who represented the BBF with class and determination," said Virginia Sprangers, the WBC's director of international protocols. "They were so impressed with the level of this tournament, the organization, and the hospitality they felt from the people of Prince George. From the time they left to return home, they stated they would do everything they could to come back and put their best foot forward. We're excited to know we'll be seeing them again."
In 2009, the BBF fielded a young team and that was part of the reason for the winless record. As well, the club was hurt by the fact that some key players didn't attend because of injuries or commitments to professional teams.
"The administration was a bit disappointed in the team's showing in 2009, but understood it was due to youth and inexperience," said Craig Kemp, president of the BBF. "The BBF is excited about returning to British Columbia and is in full preparation mode."
Some players have already been selected to the roster, and a coaching staff is already in place. It will be led by Lionel Ferguson, Sr., who was at the controls when the Bahamas defeated host Cuba 2-1 at the 2006 World University Games. That result still stands as one of the biggest upsets in international baseball history.
The WBC committee will announce the participation of more teams in the coming weeks. Invitations have been extended to Cuba, and to the Canadian and U.S. national teams.
Tournament passes are available at Ticketmaster.
