Monday, July 21, 2025 – 7:00 PM at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre

The Victoria HarbourCats are proud to host an important evening for parents of young ballplayers looking to better understand the journey to playing college baseball in the United States.

Tonight’s session will begin at 7:00 PM, hosted in the Wilson’s Lounge at the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, with a live Zoom option available for those unable to attend in person. This interactive discussion is open to all parents interested in helping their child navigate the next steps in their baseball development.

The session will be chaired by HarbourCats Managing Partner Jim Swanson, and will feature a panel of experienced parents from programs such as the Victoria Eagles and Mariners. These panelists will share firsthand insight on what families can expect—from recruiting timelines to the realities of college baseball life.

Key topics will include:

• Understanding the U.S. College Baseball System:
  An overview of the different levels—NCAA, NAIA, Junior College (JuCo)—as well as Canadian alternatives like UBC and the Golden Tide.

• Recruitment and Exposure:
  How players get noticed, including tips on recruiting windows, highlight videos, email outreach, tournaments, and showcase events.

• Financing College Baseball:
  A look at athletic scholarships, academic awards, NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) opportunities, and other financial options.

• What Life Is Really Like in a U.S. Baseball Program:
  Honest discussion on the expectations, time commitments, and lifestyle student-athletes experience once they’re enrolled.

There will also be an open Q&A period, giving attendees a chance to ask specific questions and get practical advice directly from those who’ve been through it.

Event Details:

📍 Wilson’s Lounge, Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre
🕖 Monday, July 21 – 7:00 PM
💻 Zoom Link: Click here to join the session

Whether your child is just starting high school ball or already drawing interest from scouts, this is a valuable opportunity to learn how to support their goals and plan ahead.

We look forward to seeing you there.