Indigenous Rookie League

Status: Closed

About

The Indigenous Rookie League (IRL) is a slo-pitch baseball league hosted by Métis Nation British Columbia in partnership with the Jays Care Foundation, the charitable arm of the Toronto Blue Jays. The IRL is the first of its kind in British Columbia, joining 14 other leagues across Canada. It offers an incredible opportunity for Indigenous players ages 12 to 18 to come together, develop leadership skills, and build on culture and connections.

Eligibility

Players

  • 15-20 players per roster
  • Open to ages 12-18
  • 1 practice and 1 game per week

Coaches

  • 1 Head Coach, 2 Assistant Coaches per team
  • Open to ages 18+
  • Coach training provided by Softball BC
  • Honorarium (based on attendance)
  • Criminal Record Check needed

What the Service Provides

A typical season includes one practice and one game per week.

All equipment is provided, including a jersey and hat.

Transportation may be available when needed.

Availability

The 2026 season ended in August.

How to Access or Apply

Stay tuned for the 2027 season! 

Past Seasons

2026

The second Indigenous Rookie League season ran from June 8 to August 9, 2026.

Two new teams joined for the season: Team Surrey Delta and Team North Vancouver. Returning teams were Team Chilliwack, Team Vancouver, Team Tsawwassen, and Team Fraser Valley.

2025

The inaugural season featured Team Chilliwack, Team Vancouver, Team Fraser Valley, and Team Tsawwassen.  

Congratulations to Team Fraser Valley for showcasing the most Honour Points and to Team Tsawwassen for securing the most Compete Points.