The link between the Toronto Blue Jays and the World Baseball Challenge is now stronger than ever.
On Tuesday, organizers of the 2011 WBC announced that the Blue Jays have become a major presenting sponsor. The international tournament will be held July 8-19 at Prince George Citizen Field.
"We can't say enough about the encouragement and assistance we have received from the Blue Jays -- what a class organization, one that is heading back to the top of the baseball world once again," said WBC co-chair Jim Swanson.
The Blue Jays also threw their support behind the tournament when it made its Prince George debut in 2009. But now, said Swanson, they have "increased their involvement dramatically." In recognition of that fact, the WBC will soon unveil a new logo that displays the Jays brand prominently.
One of the ways in which the Blue Jays have stepped up to the plate this time around is in their decision to hold a skills camp in Prince George just prior to the tournament. From July 4-6, former Jays stars Lloyd Moseby, Duane Ward, Rance Mulliniks and Mark Eichhorn will lead sessions for players aged eight to 14. Registration for the camp, sponsored by Honda, is being run through bluejays.com.
Prince George product Stephen Brooks is the senior vice president of business operations for the Blue Jays. Brooks said the Jays organization is committed to growing interest and participation in baseball across the country.
"Our support of tournaments such as the World Baseball Challenge, as well as our recently-announced Honda Super Camps, are all part of our plans to fulfill this commitment," Brooks said. "We are excited to be part of the 2011 World Baseball Challenge in Prince George."
As for the tournament lineup, the Bahamas Baseball Federation and the Beijing Tigers have already confirmed their participation.
Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster outlets. Tournament passes are priced at $149 and $199.
