In 2022, with the arrival of Canadian coach Kirk McNabb, the Boucaniers de la Rochelle showed their ambition to rise to the occasion. They did just that, finishing with the best championship position in club history: 4th place. This year, the recruitment follows the same trend as last year. Many players from last year will return, starting with the foreign ace Wilce Nieves and the French ace Nicolas Antoine. On Sunday, during the opening day, other European and foreign names will be revealed to complete the team.
BTVF: What’s your take on the 2022 season?
We can now compete with the best and will continue to grow and develop without any complexes, sending a strong signal as the Boucaniers aim to become a powerful club where hard work and enjoyment will be the cornerstones of our development.
BTVF: What’s your main goal for the 2023 season across all competitions for your club?
Playoffs in both Division 1 and Division 2
Denis Brito, utility player (Dominican Republic) Accord Cotonou
BTVF: What collective strengths will you rely on to tackle each match one by one?
- One match at a time
- 27 outs per game
- Multi-cultural team, multi-skilled for the joy of playing and winning while respecting our rival friends
BTVF: In your opinion, which statements best describe your club regarding new players?
All in some way:
1- Wait until the last moment to announce and communicate player names gradually before the season
It’s also strategic
2- Build notoriety by announcing new players on social media
Yes, communication is key to capturing attention
3- Keep quiet to surprise other clubs
The element of surprise is also enticing
4- Communicate with French baseball media to relay the information
That would be ideal
BTVF: Do you plan to broadcast matches, and if so, what improvements do you envision for 2023?
Baseball TV France is a Boucaniers root, a motivation to believe in a project. We’ll do everything we can to facilitate and support BTVF.
BTVF: What are the pros and cons, in your view, of having a team in Division 2 in addition to Division 1?
Player management is necessary, but we aim to unify the two groups for positive competition among players. Attracting top young players from the region and France, and giving more opportunities to local players to compete at the national level.
BTVF: What infrastructure improvements have you made for this new season?
A 170-square-meter container terrace restaurant with a rooftop for marketing partners, a scoring platform with sound system, and a Boucaniers pirate-themed merchandise shop.
BTVF: What were the main adaptations in terms of training and recruitment you considered to prepare for the 2024 season (8 teams, JFL players…)?
Staying among the top 8 teams is a priority, but we’re already preparing for the 2024 season by integrating and developing our JFL players.
BTVF: What do you wish for in 2023?
Fun, victories, and playoffs.
