News: Welland Jackfish to Host 2024 IBL All-Star Showdown

The Intercounty Baseball League announced this morning, November 15, that the 2023 Dominico Cup Champion Welland Jackfish has been awarded the 2024 IBL All-Star Showdown.

The 1st IBL All-Star event since 2016 will make its first trip to Welland Stadium in Welland, Ontario, July 20, 2024.

“We are very excited to announce that the Welland Jackfish will be hosting the 2024 IBL All-Star Showdown,” said IBL Commissioner, Ted Kalnins. “Welland has taken in-game entertainment and fan interaction to a new level, and the All-Star Showdown will be no different.”

Fans can plan for the festivities to begin on Saturday, July 20th at 1 PM, with the full format of the IBL All-Star Showdown being announced on December 9th during the Jackfish Christmas Party at Tailgates Bar and Grill in Welland. 

“This will be unlike any All-Star event fans have ever seen,” said Jackfish President and Director of Fun, Ryan Harrison. “We are breaking away from the traditional format and making it an event of non-stop action, entertainment, and showmanship.”

Tickets to the IBL All-Star Showdown will be available to fans based on priority with current 2024 Jackfish Season Members and ticket package holders having first access to All-Star ticket options.

“In the coming month, we look forward to sharing more details on the events surrounding the All-Star Game and Home Run Derby which will make it extra special for the fans and players of the IBL,” said Kalnins.

The Jackfish, entering their fifth season in 2024, earned IBL Executive of the Year honors in 2019. They continued their success in the league’s return in 2021, doubling attendance ever since. In 2023, the Jackfish won their first IBL championship while leading the eight-team league in attendance.

“Just get your popcorn ready and get mentally prepared, we are giving fans something to root for and get behind,” said Harrison.

Stay tuned to www.theibl.ca and www.wellandjackfish.com for all future All-Star related announcements. Those interested in purchasing tickets can contact the Welland Jackfish at 905-735-9834.

The Intercounty Baseball League (IBL) is the top-level baseball league in Canada, boasting ex-major league professionals and elite NCAA college baseball players. The 2024 season marked the IBL’s 106th year in operation. The IBL is one of the longest continuously operated baseball leagues in the world and serves as a valuable training ground for coaches, umpires, and front office staff. More than 40 IBL players have advanced to Major League Baseball or returned to the IBL following their MLB careers. The league is comprised of teams from Barrie, Brantford, Chatham-Kent, Guelph, Hamilton, Kitchener, London, Toronto and Welland. For more information, visit www.theibl.ca or @ibl1919 on Instagram and Twitter.

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