18U Prep

The Calgary Cubs 18U BAEL Prep program is designed as the final development step before joining our top-tier Elite team. This program serves highly motivated athletes who are ready for a performance-level environment and want the training, standards, and competitive opportunities required to reach the Baseball Alberta Elite League, and beyond.

What Does 18U BAEL Prep Mean?

Baseball Calgary is committed to fostering an environment that prepares, trains, and supports our athletes in a true performance-level setting. The 18U BAEL Prep program is designed to:

• Build the conditioning, skills, and baseball IQ required for athletes to progress into our Elite team
• Provide a high-performance practice structure that mirrors Elite expectations
• Offer AAA-level tournament opportunities for added challenge
• Develop the values, work ethic, and advanced skills needed to succeed at the next level

This is a development-first environment built for players who are serious about their growth and want a clear path into our Baseball Alberta Elite League.

League Play

The 18U BAEL Prep team competes in one of Baseball Alberta top divisions, ensuring challenging and meaningful competition:

• Baseball Alberta 18U AAA or 18U AA (Tier 1/2)
  Final placement pending Baseball Alberta approval

This league structure provides steady, competitive reps and the game experience required to prepare athletes for Elite play.

Tournaments

To accelerate growth and expose players to higher competition:

• 3-5 tournaments per season
  (Exact number determined by league placement)

Tournaments may include AAA-level events, giving athletes an opportunity to test their skills in advanced environments.

Indoor Winter Training (January-April)

Players begin their preparation with structured, high-calibre indoor development:

• January & February: 1 indoor practice per week
• March & April: 1-2 indoor practices per week
• Delivered in partnership with JM Elite

Winter training focuses on:

• Arm care, velocity progression & mound development
• Advanced hitting mechanics and approach
• Defensive reps and position-specific development
• Baseball IQ, situational awareness, and leadership
• Performance habits needed for the Elite level

Outdoor Practices (April-July)

Once weather allows, athletes transition to outdoor team training:

• 2-3 outdoor practices per week
• Held at Heidelberg Playfield Park (formerly Inland Athletic Park)

Outdoor practices emphasize:

• Team systems, communication & game management
• High-rep defensive work and live game scenarios
• Strength, speed, and athletic development
• Executing at the tempo and standard expected at the Elite tier

Program Focus

The 18U BAEL Prep program is built on:

• Preparing athletes for the Baseball Alberta Elite League
• High-performance development in a supportive, structured environment
• Strong culture, accountability, and leadership
• Competing with integrity, effort, and purpose
• Helping athletes pursue advanced pathways, including college baseball