With the new DC Royals era in full swing, Head Coach Cavanagh Whitely is proud to announce that three former professional players have signed on to help coach the Royals this season:

Pitching Coach Brooks McNiven brings a wealth of experience to the Staff as a former pitcher in the San Francisco Giants organization for the past six seasons. Drafted in the 4th round in 2003, Brooks has also played with the Canadian National team on numerous occasions including the 2008 Beijing Olympics and 2009 World Cup and World Baseball Classic teams. Brooks is dedicated to developing the pitchers at Douglas College and throughout the lower mainland to give them the chance to play at the next level.

Outfield Coach Derran Watts adds his impressive resume to the 2010/2011 Douglas College squad this Fall. Derran, who was the first UBC Thunderbird ever drafted back in 2001, spent five years in the NY Mets organization before coming back to Vancouver to pursure firefighting as his career of choice. He will work closely with the outfielders and hitters to help them achieve their potential on the field.

Douglas College is also proud to announce that Jake Elder has joined the Athletic Department as their full time Strength and Conditioning coach. Jake spent four years at the University of Minnesota as their starting catcher before being drafted and signed by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2006. After professional baseball, Jake has returned to the lower mainland to pursue his career as a personal trainer and strength coach. After receiving his certifications, he has worked as a trainer with both the Toronto Blue Jays and Arizona Diamondbacks organizations. Jake will spend time working with the catchers along with Craig Tessier when he is not in the weight room.

The baseball team at Douglas College is excited to have this elite coaching staff assembled to help develop this year's current group of players. Coach Whitely had this to say about the hirings.

"I hope the players realize how lucky they are to have these coaches around. Its not often that a Junior College baseball team can have a staff of this caliber. I would be surprised if we don't have the most professional experienced staff in the entire Pacific Northwest. Having these guys on board will not only allow us to compete against the strong US teams in the NWAACC, but will allow us to develop to be one of the baseball powerhouses in the area."

While the Royals competitive season doesn't start till Spring 2011, they will be working hard each day to have every player compete on the field and in the classroom to reach their full potential.