The Nanaimo NightOwls are nearly ready for their second season of West Coast League baseball. One of the priorities before opening day is to secure more billet families for their players. (Nanaimo NightOwls)

By Dan Marshall

Final Preparations

Billets needed as Nanaimo NightOwls put finishing touches on plans for second season

May 3, 2023 | 11:48 AM

NANAIMO — The NightOwls made their long awaited debut in 2022 and the team is excited for improvements on and off the field in year two.

Nanaimo finished just outside the playoff picture last year with a 10-18 record, but ended their season on an impressive five game winning streak.

Co-owner Jim Swanson said it’s now crunch time to get everything ready for the new season of the West Coast League.

“It’s important for us to make sure the players and coaches have a great situation and our fans and our partners in the community have a great situation. We think we’ve only scratched the surface in terms of the entertainment value.”

There were lessons learned through the first NightOwls campaign and some other logistical issues Swanson said won’t be a factor this time around.

off the schedule

BC Ferries preemptively cancels early Saturday sailings

2h ago

firm handshake

B.C. NDP government, Greens reach 'shared priorities' agreement

4h ago

young volunteers

'Make a big difference:' Nanaimo volunteers collecting warm clothing for those in need

5h ago

As fans return to Serauxmen Stadium for the home opener on June 2 against Walla Walla, Swanson believes they’ll notice some positive improvements.

“We’re really excited for the uptick that we plan to have in the game experience and fan entertainment this year. Food services is going to have significantly more options this year and a full PA system will be in place, not the make shift one we had last year.”

The team will also be working with local hip-hop artist Darcy McBride to provide between innings entertainment.

The NightOwls have brought in some new faces to bolster the lineup this year and the club has a strong volunteer base.

One area of need currently is for billet families.

“Being a host family is a great opportunity for people to have a young player in their home that can act as a role model. The difference between this and other sports is the length of our season is extremely short. The season is over in 70 days from late May until mid August.”

Fans will already know several returning players from the first NightOwls season, including hometown Nanaimo athletes Tim Holyk and Aaron Marsh.

“We’re fortunate to have some of our returning players this year be local guys,” Swanson said. “We’re excited about Holyk, Marsh, Cody Hendricks and Brandon Hupe coming back. It’s a great starting point for sure.”

If you’re interested in becoming a host family you can call 250-739-6113 or click on the fillable form on nanaimonightowls.com.

Join the conversation. Submit your letter to NanaimoNewsNOW and be included on The Water Cooler, our letters to the editor feature.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW