Guelph Minor Baseball Association is pleased to announce that John (J.D) Yari will serve as the head coach for the Junior Royals for the 2012 season.

This team, which will be operated by GMBA, sees Guelph return to the Junior Inter County Baseball League after a one year absence.

Mr. Yari’s baseball resume is extremely impressive. He played professionally in the Toronto Blue Jays system for three seasons and has coached extensively at all levels for Waterloo Minor Baseball. One of Yari’s many highlights as a field manager came in 1990, when he led the Kitchener Panthers to the IBL title.

“We are very fortunate to have someone of Mr. Yari’s caliber leading our junior program,” says GMBA President Shawn Martens. “This will lay a foundation for the junior program to be successful for many years to come as we emphasize player development over the long-term.”

Jeff Laplaunte, a long-time coach with GMBA has agreed to take on the role of Administrative Manager for the Junior Royals.

A date for player tryouts and announcements regarding the coaching staff and Junior Royals schedule for the 2012 season will be available shortly on the team and GMBA website.

For any additional information, please contact GMBA President Shawn Martens.  www.gmba.ca