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The Dawgs Academy have a long-standing tradition of providing their athletes with opportunities to play baseball at the college level. Currently, the Dawgs Academy has 67 athletes on active rosters across all levels of college baseball including 16 NCAA Division 1 athletes.

With the 2023 college baseball season starting this weekend at the junior college level, we wanted to highlight a few Dawgs who look to make a major impact at their respective schools.

Cesar Valero (OF) – Sacramento State University (NCAA D1)

After transferring from Oregon State University, Valero had a breakout season with the Hornets. In 39 games played, Valero hit .297 with 36 runs scored, 7 doubles, 13 home runs, and 38 RBI prior to a season ending injury. Despite Valero’s injury, his outstanding season was more than enough for him to be named Sacramento State’s “Male Athlete of the Year”. With a clean bill of health, look for Valero to try and match last year’s performance as he has his sights set on the MLB draft for 2023!

Max Hartman (OF) – Washington State University (NCAA D1)

Entering his freshman year at WSU, Hartman was a standout for both the Dawgs and Team Canada JNT in 2022 which helped him transition seamlessly to WSU. Look for Max to make an impact coming off the bench for the Cougars with the potential to earn significant playing time if he capitalizes on his opportunities.

Tyrelle Chadwick (RHP)- Illinois State University (NCAA D1)

Entering his freshman year at Illinois State, Chadwick had an impressive Fall for the Redbirds. Featuring a sinker that lives in the 90-95 mph range and a plus slider, look for Chadwick to play a significant role on the pitching staff for the Redbirds in 2023.

Matt Grabmann (RHP) – University of Oregon (NCAA D1)

One of last year’s top MLB Draft prospects, Grabmann enters his freshman season at Oregon ranked in the top 100 for NCAA D1 freshmen. Featuring a fastball in the low to mid 90’s and topping as high as 97 mph with quality secondary offerings, Grabmann has a legitimate opportunity to earn significant innings for the Ducks, especially with the recent injuries of two of their projected weekend starters.

Boston Warkentin (RHP) – University of Washington (NCAA D1)

Warkentin was a workhorse for the Dawgs Academy for the past several years including a couple of stints with Team Canada’s junior national team. Warkentin’s fastball lives in the 88-93 mph range coupled with a true plus breaking ball will give him an opportunity to work out of the back end of the bullpen for the Huskies with potential for some spots starts in 2023. 

Ricardo Sanchez (INF) – Barton Community College (NJCAA); Committed to Lamar University (NCAA D1)

Sanchez had an absolutely stellar season in 2022 for the Barton CC Cougars putting up video game type numbers. In 59 games played, Sanchez hit .442 with 35 doubles, 5 triples, 9 home runs and 90 RBI. Look for Sanchez to try and top those numbers in 2023!

Matt Wilkinson (LHP) – Central Arizona Community College (NJCAA); Committed to Arizona State University (NCAA D1)

Affectionately known as Tugboat, Wilkinson was as dominant as they come for the defending JUCO World Series Champions – Central Arizona Vaqueros. Working primarily out of the backend of the bullpen in 2022, Wilkinson appeared in 19 games including 3 starts for the Vaqs. In those 19 appearances, Tugboat finished with a 5-2 record while pitching 53 innings with a stingy 1.87 ERA while collecting 85 strikeouts. Look for the Arizona State commit to play an even bigger role for the Vaqueros in 2023 as he transitions to the starting rotation for the defending World Series champions.

Andrew Yusypchuk (RHP) – Chandler-Gilbert Community College (NJCAA); Committed to Southern Illinois University (NCAA D1)

Yusypchuk was a staple for the Coyotes in 2022 during his freshman year, earning a spot in the starting rotation. In 15 appearances including 9 starts, Yusypchuk logged 76.1 innings pitched with a 6-4 record while racking up 67 strikeouts with a 4.60 ERA. Look for Yusypchuk to improve upon a solid freshman season in 2023 as he heads the starting rotation for the Coyotes.

Tucker Zdunich (OF) – Reinhardt University (NAIA)

Recently named a 2023 NAIA Pre-season All-American, Zdunich had an outstanding season for the Eagles in 2022. In 59 games played, Zdunich hit .379 with 14 doubles, 3 triples and 17 home runs while tallying 67 RBI. Look for Zdunich to match those numbers as he tries to help lead the Eagles to the NAIA World Series in 2023!

See the complete list of Dawgs on active college rosters for the 2023 season ahead!

GO DAWGS!

NCAA D1

Bennett Freiter – North Dakota State University

Boston Warkentin – University of Washington

Cesar Valero – Sacramento State University

Cody Henriks – Cal State University Bakersfield

Cole Tucker – Niagara University

Ethan Francis – Northwestern State University

Jackson Fraser – Northern Kentucky University

Jayden Wakeham – Northern Kentucky University

Jordan Lussier – Illinois State University

Logan Rumberg – George Mason University

Martin Ding – Northern Kentucky University

Matt Grabmann – University of Oregon

Max Hartman – Washington State University

Micah McDowell – Oregon State University

Simon Lusignan – Stetson University

Tyrelle Chadwick – Illinois State University

NCAA D2

Chase Tucker – College of St. Rose

Graham Brunner – Emporia State University

Justin Breen – Arkansas Tech University

Kendall Keller – University of Mary

Matt Dobberthien – Colorado School of Mines

Noah Geekie – Emporia State University

Quinn Tocheniuk – Rogers State University

Tyler McWillie – Shorter University

NAIA

Aidan Rose – University of British Columbia

Ben Swennumson – University of Jamestown

Brandon Woods – University of British Columbia

Brendan Logan – University of British Columbia

Connor Makarus – University of Jamestown

Derek Palmer – Mayville State University

Jack Marlin – Campbellsville University

Kale Seitz – Campbellsville University

Kobe Fredland – Campbellsville University

Logan Grant – Bellevue University

Nash Crowell – Reinhardt University

Roch LaFerriere – Dakota State University

Russell Mattson – Campbellsville University

Ryan McFarland – Campbellsville University

Ryan Olchoway – Ottawa University

Shaun Atamanchuk – Park University at Gilbert

Thomas Bakoway – Siena Heights University

Tucker Zdunich – Reinhardt University

Tyson Kemp – Siena Heights University

Canadian College Baseball Conference

Brandon Green – University of Victoria

Davis Jack – University of Victoria

Devon Moore – Okanagan College

Ryan Dousett – Okanagan College

JUCO

Alejandro Cazorla – Bossier Parish Community College

Andrew Franson – Williston State College

Andrew Yusypchuk – Chandler Gilbert Community College; Committed to Southern Illinois University

Ben Hoshizaki – Chandler Gilbert Community College

Brody Forno – Williston State College; Committed to Oklahoma Wesleyan University

Bryce Libke – Bismarck State College

Connor Crowson – Bossier Parish Community College

Connor Wong – South Suburban Community College

Dryden Howse – Barton Community College

Hank Griffin – Bossier Parish Community College

Jacob Gillis – Bossier Parish Community College

Kaden Zarowny – Crowder College

Kobe Laevens – Bossier Parish Community College

Matt Wilkinson – Central Arizona College; Committed to Arizona State University

Nick Hagen – Antelope Valley Community College

Olivier Vallée – Colby Community College

Ricardo Sanchez – Barton Community College; Committed to Lamar University

Ryder Hancock – Chandler Gilbert Community College

Seth Thompson – Chandler Gilbert Community College

Tyrese Johnson – Central Arizona Community College

Congratulations to Dawgs Academy 2023 RHP Ben Soke on his commitment to North Dakota State University, a NCAA D1 school in Fargo.

Soke will join academy alumni, Bennett Freiter, starting this Fall in Fargo, ND.

The Okotoks Dawgs Academy is pleased to announce the finalized dates for our 2023 Host Tournaments.

For the first time since COVID-19 first shut down baseball and countless other aspects of life, the Dawgs will be hosting their 18U, 15U & 13U tournaments – New Era 18U Mother’s Day Classic, Father’s Day Classic 13U & Canada Day Classic 13U.

To register for a tournament, please contact the following Dawgs staff members for each respective tournament:

Mother’s Day Classic (18U)- Jeff Duda (jeff.duda@dawgsbaseball.ca)
Father’s Day Classic (13U)- Tyler Milton (tyler.milton@dawgsbaseball.ca)
Canada Day Classic (15U)- Lou Pote (lou.pote@dawgsbaseball.ca)

For tournament details, please see the graphic below.

2022 DAWGS IN REVIEW……WITH A GLIMPSE INTO 2023

The 2022 season of Dawgs Baseball at both the summer collegiate and Youth Academy levels can only be viewed as an unmitigated success. Emerging out of a devastating 2 year global pandemic that prompted the cancellation of the entire 2020 baseball season, the Dawgs reached new heights in 2022.

Meeting the “COVID Challenge

Despite financial challenges resulting from the pandemic, the Dawgs remained dedicated to their market communities. In particular, the Dawgs undertook a number of initiatives including but not limited to Dawgs Food Bank Drives whereby the club raised significant funds and collected in excess of 4000 lbs. of non-perishable food items for the local Food Bank. In addition, the Dawgs continued to conduct its School Reading Program for local elementary schools modifying the program to include “Virtual” Reading when necessary in order to comply with health and government regulations.

Further, with over 130 youth players participating in the Dawgs Youth Academy, Dawgs Coaches developed a Virtual Training Program to assist player development and promote mental and physical health and wellbeing. Subsequently, the Virtual Program gave way to an onsite “Health & Safety First” Practice Plan as the Dawgs became the first amateur program to be approved for live practices. It is a testament to the dedication and creativity of our Dawgs coaching staff that despite the shut down and the inability of Dawgs teams to travel to showcase tournaments across the United States, the Dawgs were able to maintain a 100% graduation rate to US and Canadian colleges and universities.

In addition, as restrictions imposed by the health authorities eased, the Dawgs were at the forefront of professional and amateur sports franchises in offering our communities positive, healthy, outdoor, family entertainment. As such, despite the closure of the Canada/US border restricting travel and the participation of American college players, the Dawgs spearheaded an initiative to offer the communities an “All Canadian”, Safety First, 2021 Season. This involved introducing several health and safety features and protocols throughout the Stadium and related facilities. This initiative was a major success the best illustration of which was the fact that the Dawgs were able to host a sellout crowd on Canada Day 2021 with the Premier of Alberta in attendance!

Dawgs & Dawgs Academy Return “Full Force” in 2022

Summer Collegiate Dawgs: 2022 was truly a phenomenal season for Dawgs Baseball at Seaman Stadium highlighted by a 1st place finish with a WCBL record 43 wins during the regular season, exciting playoff series wins and another WCBL Championship before a record breaking crowd in Okotoks. Dawgs Academy grad, Ricardo Sanchez (Barton CC) was named league MVP, Brendan Luther (OCC, Bellevue) captured WCBL Playoff MVP honors and Micah McDowell (Oregon State) was named 1st Team All-star.

Dawgs and Academy grads were also selected in the amateur draft of Major League Baseball. Jacob Melton and Gavin Logan (Oregon State) were selected in the 2nd and 9th round respectively by the Houston Astros and the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Milwaukee Brewers had selected former Dawgs standout Tristan Peters in the 7th round and signed Justin King to a contract.

In terms of attendance, Ballpark Digest reported that the Dawgs were the 4th top summer collegiate draw in North America averaging 4207 fans per game in 2022 for the regular season with 5003 fans attending on Canada Day and a record shattering 6000 fans at the WCBL All Star Game and Home Run Derby. In June 2022, the Dawgs welcomed their 1 Millionth fan to Seaman Stadium! For the season, the collegiate Dawgs attracted a record breaking 130,000 fans.

Beyond the baseball, the Dawgs, its donors and the Town added over $2 Million in facility upgrades to enhance the viewing experience of our extraordinary fan base at Seaman Stadium. Highlighting these were the completion of the Kore 4 (+14) Corner Hospitality Patios and “Front Row” Seating Section, a new Visitors’ Clubhouse, the Grog & Grub Concession, a new washroom building, the expansion of the walkway along the Ford Family Berm, construction of 2 large Pergolas and the addition of Berm Countertop Viewing Areas. In addition, the Dawgs added Satellite Concession Stations, new Fibre Optik High Speed Internet, a Mobile Concession Application and a number of TV monitors.

Dawgs Youth Academy: The success of the summer collegiate Dawgs was matched by the Youth Academy. Perfect Game ranked the Dawgs 18U Black Team the 3rd top (1st in Canada) youth travel team in North America. The Dawgs second 18U squad, Dawgs Red was ranked 70th (#2 in Canada). The Dawgs 15U captured another Alberta Championship.

In the fall of 2022, the Academy scheduled another West Coast College Tour playing 18 games in 17 days against premier NCAA college competition including the University of Utah, Washington State, Gonzaga, the University of Oregon, Oregon State and the University of Portland.

A few other Dawgs Academy highlights:

• 72 College placements including 25 NCAA D1 commitments, 13 of which are Power 5 commits;
• 8 Canadian Junior National Team selections in 2022;
• 12 Dawgs attended the Toronto Blue Jays Showcase;
• Dawgs Academy alumni selected in the MLB Draft Tristan Peters (7th round; MilwaukeeBrewers) Gavin Logan (9th round pick; Arizona Diamondbacks), Justin King (Milwaukee);
• Dawgs Academy alumni Alejo Lopez makes MLB debut with Cincinnati Reds;
• Dawgs Academy and collegiate alumni Jim Henderson makes MLB Coaching Debut withMilwaukee Brewers;
• 5 Dawgs Academy alumni earned College World Series Championships including Ayden Makarus & Jackson Fraser (LSU-Eunice; NJCAA D2), Ty Johnson & Matt Wilkinson (Central Arizona College; NJCAA D1) & Clayton Keyes (Southeastern University; NAIA).

Looking Forward to Dawgs 2023

The Dawgs will continue to raise the bar in 2023 in terms of enhancing our player and fan experience. Facility upgrades in process for the 2023 season include an iconic new Da Dawgs Beach Bar on the Anthem Hospitality Patio, a new “Ay Caramba” Cantina on the Fortis Family Patio and 2 new Pergolas.

In the fall of 2023, the Dawgs plan to add a new Indoor Batting Facility to compliment the Duvernay Indoor Fieldhouse and Training Center as well as new Ground Level Hospitality Suites with Rooftop Patios in order to afford more fans with an opportunity to experience the grassroots phenomenon that is Dawgs Baseball.

Dawgs wish all of our incredible fans, donors, sponsors and partners, a fabulous 2023!

GO DAWGS!!

Congratulations to Dawgs Academy 2023 catcher Jacob Wrubleski on his commitment to Chandler-Gilbert Community College in Chandler, Arizona.

Wrubleski is the third Dawg of the 2023 class to commit to the Coyotes, joining RHP/OF Brandon LeBlanc & RHP Rowan Robinson.

The Dawgs Academy would like to congratulate 2023 catcher Andrew Johnston on his commitment to NJCAA program, Indian Hills Community College.

Johnston joins former standout Dawgs- Ryan Humeniuk, Justin King, Soren Graversen & Jared Spearing in heading south to Indian Hills.

Congratulations, Andrew!

Congratulations to Dawgs Academy RHP Rowan Robinson on his commitment to Chandler-Gilbert Community College in Chandler, Arizona.

LeBlanc joins a long list of Dawgs that have attended Chandler-Gilbert including Dawgs General Manager & Chandler-Gilbert Hall of Fame member, Tyler Hollick.

During the 2022 Spring & Summer season, Robinson was utilized as both a starting pitcher and reliever over the course of the season. In 9 games, Robinson pitched 22.2 innings while collecting 18 strikeouts with a 1-2 record.

Congratulations, Rowan!

The Dawgs Academy is pleased to announce that RHP|OF Brandon LeBlanc has committed to Chandler-Gilbert Community College in Chandler, Arizona.

LeBlanc joins a long list of Dawgs that have attended Chandler-Gilbert including Dawgs General Manager & Chandler-Gilbert Hall of Fame member, Tyler Hollick.

LeBlanc was one of the aces on a deep pitching staff for the 18U Black team in 2022. In 14 appearances including 8 starts, LeBlanc pitched 50 innings while surrendering only 28 hits with a 0.98 ERA. Offensively, LeBlanc hit .327 in 52 AB’s while driving in 14 runs on the year.

Congratulations, Brandon!

The Okotoks Dawgs will be hosting their annual Holiday Hoopla on Saturday, December 10th from 9am to 1pm at the Duvernay Fieldhouse.

Admission is free of charge but we will be accepting donations for the Okotoks Food Bank. This is a great opportunity for the Dawgs, our fans, and the community of Okotoks to help those in need! There will be plenty of fun and activities including inflatables, pictures with Santa, arts & crafts, face painting and more for people of all ages to enjoy!

This is one of our favourite events of the year and we look forward to celebrating the holiday season with our fans and the community of Okotoks!