An Era Ends, Another Begins: Pirates Close Season with Pride and Eyes on the Future
ALDERGROVE, BC - July 26, 2026
The North Delta Pirates' pursuit of a BC Provincial Championship came to an end on Saturday afternoon, falling 7-1 to the Richmond Chuckers in their final round robin game at the BC 18U AAA Provincial Championships. Although the score was not the ending the Pirates had envisioned, it did little to reflect the competitiveness of the contest. North Delta out-hit Richmond 7-5, but timely walks, aggressive baserunning, and capitalizing on key opportunities proved to be the difference as the Chuckers advanced to the provincial final, where they ultimately fell 6-4 to the North Island Cubs.
Saturday's result marked the conclusion of a season defined as much by resilience as by wins and losses. The Pirates battled through significant adversity from opening day to the final out, overcoming injuries to key pitchers, lineup adjustments, and countless challenges that tested the depth and character of the club. Despite those obstacles, North Delta finished the regular season with a strong 20-16 record, secured the sixth seed at provincials, and remained in the hunt for a semi-final berth until the final day of pool play.
Against Richmond, the Pirates once again demonstrated the determination that had become their trademark throughout the season. Payton Harper led the offensive attack with three hits in four at-bats and drove in North Delta's lone run. The Pirates consistently put runners on base, collecting seven hits and drawing five walks, but Richmond's pitching repeatedly found ways to escape trouble. Meanwhile, the Chuckers made the most of their opportunities, using patient at-bats to draw ten walks while manufacturing runs through aggressive baserunning and timely hitting.
The final out marked more than the end of a tournament—it closed a remarkable chapter in the history of North Delta Pirates baseball. For six graduating players and the coaching staff that helped guide them, it was the culmination of a journey that began nearly a decade ago. Together they experienced countless practices, road trips, championships, disappointments, and unforgettable victories, developing not only as baseball players but as teammates and lifelong friends. Many of these players proudly wore North Delta colours through multiple age divisions, capturing provincial championships along the way and helping build one of the program's strongest eras.
The emotion extended well beyond the players. Parents, families, and supporters who have spent years travelling together across British Columbia shared the bittersweet realization that one chapter had come to a close. The friendships forged over thousands of kilometres on the road, weekends in hotels, late-night conversations, and countless games are bonds that extend far beyond baseball. While the players will now pursue new opportunities in university, work, and life, the relationships built through the game will undoubtedly continue for years to come.
The Pirates organization extends its sincere appreciation to graduating players Eliaz Murti, Liam Jones, Lucas Stebbings, Matthew Sarkessian, Noah Grant, Payton Harper, and Tyler Conway, whose commitment and leadership helped shape the culture of this team. Special recognition also goes to Head Coach Jeff Stebbings and assistant coaches Shaun Jones and Alex McKay, whose tireless dedication, countless volunteer hours, and unwavering belief in their players have left a lasting legacy within the program. Their impact reaches well beyond wins and losses, helping develop young men who will carry the lessons of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership long after their playing days are over.
As one era closes, another is already beginning. A talented core of returning players—including Connal Grant, Jack Riley, Jack Utsunomiya, Paul Stringer, Scott Ormston, and Tevin Bentley—has gained invaluable experience competing against the province's best and is poised to take on larger leadership roles next season. Combined with the next wave of talented athletes emerging through the North Delta Baseball system and neighbouring communities, the future of Pirates baseball remains exceptionally bright.
While the 2026 season has come to an end, the foundation has been laid for the next generation and the Pirates are already looking ahead. Next up - 2026 North Delta Pirates Fall Ball - available to families from North Delta and surrounding communities who are interested in becoming part of one of British Columbia's premier development programs. Players born in 2009, 2010, and 2011 are eligible. For approximately $260 players can expect approximately 10 games including a tournament, and a North Delta Pirates hat and fall ball shirt. To register, please find more information at https://www.northdeltapirates.ca/news/north-delta-pirates-announce-fall-ball-program-for-2026.
For more information about the North Delta Pirates, visit www.northdeltapirates.ca. Follow the team on Instagram (@northdeltapirates), Facebook, and Twitter (@piratesnd) for exclusive content and updates throughout the season.
To become a team sponsor or for media inquiries or interview requests, please contact:
Matt Grant
Director with the North Delta Pirates
northdeltapirates@gmail.com
