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The Kelowna Cubs have been working hard all winter to ready themselves for the 2009 season. Head coach Pablo Ramirez and his assistant coaches John Vaughn, Jordan Neufeld, Jamie Wolkosky, Michael Stearns and Rob Bland created a 5 day per week indoor program. Sylvio Leblanc returns as our trainer, responsible for our fitness program and injury prevention and treatment. The eighteen man roster includes 10 of the 11 eligible players returning from last season, giving this year's Cubs a solid base. The players required little time to become a team as 15 of the 18 have played together on various teams over the last 5 years. Players from Penticton, Peachland, West Kelowna, Kelowna, Vernon, Revelstoke and Prince George make this a truly B.C. Interior team. The players and coaches understand the challenges of playing in the BCPBL and look forward to competing every inning. The Cubs seniors include Ethan Vaughn. At 6'3 and 240lbs this hard hitting, hard throwing catcher will be a solid wall behind the plate. Team Captain, left-handed pitcher Dawson Newman, will be counted on to lead the team on and off the mound. First baseman, Cole Leimert is expected to continue this season with his excellent defensive skills only outmatched by his clutch hitting. Back from a season ending hand injury, Aaron Tyacke a tough, competitive middle infielder will contribute significantly to the defense, the offense and the ptiching staff as well. Brendon Mueller, a gifted outfielder, can play middle infield when needed. His speed and in-your- face style will see Brendon leg out hits and lead the team in stolen bases. Our one 2008 Grad, is big Ryan Kiss. This 6'3 255 lbs left- handed pitcher will be an intimidating presence on the mound and at the plate. Our 2010 Grads form the bulk of squad. Returning from last season includes Graham Drope. Graham is one of our best athlete's capable of playing any position on the field, including pitching and catching. Daniel Stearns, a middle infielder with a fast bat, above average range and speed will help create a strong infield capable of supporting their pitching staff. George Currie will once again find himself on the corner at 3rd and his consistent hitting will make a significant contribution to the offense. Brett McLure, will be patrolling the outfield and his strength gains over the winter will see Brett pounding the ball this season. Jeff May, a smooth throwing right handed pitcher/ outfielder is expected to develop into one of the top pitchers on the staff. Todd Leavitt is our stone cold right-handed pitcher, will take the mound in any situation and go after any hitter in the league. Look for Todd and Jeff to contribute off the mound as well. 2010 newcomers include Daniel Ballingall. This middle fielder will bring his gritty, got-to-win style of play to the field, and the plate. At 6'5", Jesse Kendall will be hard to miss whether he is tracking down a fly ball in center field or tossing a curveball from his left hand on the mound.. Kyle Monster, a multi-pitch right hander will also contribute on the field, the plate and have the genetic potential to become a member of the 90 mph club. Crafty left-handed pitcher, Brandon Klym will be counted on to baffle hitters in his middle relief position. Our 2011 Grads, Luke Grant and Dillon Kakoschke, teammates on last year's Bantam AAA team, complete the roster. Luke's coming off a great season and we expect the same from this young left-handed pitcher. Dillon, a natural athlete, will take his spot behind the plate. This pitcher/catcher combo are expected to contribute this season and are the future of the Cubs.
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