MOOSE JAW — The 13U AAA Moose Jaw Canucks took their fundraising efforts to the community on Aug. 9, where a barbecue fundraiser helped support their journey to the 2025 Western Canadian Baseball Championship in Chilliwack, B.C., scheduled for Aug. 15 to 17.
Held for three hours, the event saw strong community participation, with residents purchasing burgers and drinks for $6, all while helping the team cover travel expenses for their historic trip.
“This is a huge moment for us — we’re the first local team in 15 years to make it this far,” said head coach Rod Bauck. “Winning the provincial tournament was a big achievement, and now, to have the opportunity to compete at the Western Canadian Baseball Championship in Chilliwack, it’s a dream come true for these kids.”
The Canucks' trip to Chilliwack marks a significant achievement for both the team and Moose Jaw, as it's the first time in 15 years that a local baseball team has advanced to the Westerns. The community's enthusiasm has been strong, as evidenced by a steady crowd during the barbecue.
“We are the third team out of Moose Jaw in 15 years to win provincials, and we are the first team to be able to move on to a Western Canadian Baseball Championship,” Bauck said. “It’s kind of unbelievable in a sense — nobody ever expected that we’d be able to do it.”
The fundraiser was supported by local businesses and organizations, including Moose Jaw Co-op, which donated burgers, buns, and drinks for the event. Purposed Financial Corp. provided the space for the barbecue, and many individuals and businesses throughout the community lent their support to the cause.
“The community — individuals and businesses — have really been helping us out a great deal,” Bauck said. “It’s unbelievable, actually. We’re grateful for everything people have done to help get these boys to Chilliwack.”
The barbecue helped raise funds for the team’s biggest expenses: transportation and accommodations. With the championship being held in Chilliwack, the team faces significant costs for travel, meals, and lodging.
For those who couldn’t attend the barbecue fundraiser but still want to help, donations can be made via e-transfer to MJ13UCanucks@gmail.com. Supporters can email team treasurer Carla Harkness or team manager Taryn Mackow for more information.
“The boys really need you, and we appreciate everything you can do,” Bauck added. “Every little bit helps. We will represent well.”
To learn more about the Canucks and follow their journey to Chilliwack, visit MooseJawMinorBaseball.com and look for further updates in the Moose Jaw Express.
