Canucks fire up barbecue fundraiser to send U13 champs west

MOOSE JAW — A local baseball team is cooking up a community fundraiser this weekend as they prepare to represent Saskatchewan on the national stage.

The 13U AAA Moose Jaw Canucks will host a fundraising barbecue on Saturday, Aug. 9, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parking lot of Purposed Financial Corp., located across from the Moose Jaw Co-op. Burgers and drinks will be available for $6, with all proceeds supporting the team’s trip to the 2025 Western Canadian Baseball Championship.

“We won our provincial tournament, so the Western Canadian Baseball Championship is going to be held (in Chilliwack, B.C.),” said head coach Rod Bauck. “We’re trying to put money together to get the kids there.”

This year marks a major milestone for the team — and for Moose Jaw — with the Canucks becoming the first local team in 15 years to advance to the Western Canadian championship after winning provincials.

“It’s a great honour. These boys really worked hard to be able to do it,” Bauck said. “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 in 15 years … It’s kind of unbelievable in a sense — nobody ever expected that we’d be able to do it.”

The road to Chilliwack isn’t without its challenges. Bauck noted that travel and accommodations represent the team’s biggest expenses.

“Transportation costs is the big one — just because it’s so far,” he said. “Logistically, we have to get a bus to get us out. We’ve (also) got hotels and meals because we can’t do the trip in just one day.”

The fundraiser is supported by several community partners, including Moose Jaw Co-op, which donated burgers, buns, and drinks, and Purposed Financial Corp., which is providing its lot for the event.

“The community — individuals and businesses — have really been helping us out a great deal,” Bauck said. “It’s unbelievable, actually.”

For those unable to attend the barbecue, donations can be sent via e-transfer to [email protected]. Supporters may also 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. “If you could show up and get yourself a burger and a drink and give a donation … every little bit helps. We will represent well.”

To learn more about the team, visit MooseJawMinorBaseball.com.

Purposed Financial Corp. is located at 81 Athabasca Street West.