Legion baseball looking forward to 2023 summer season

The North Idaho Lakers American Legion baseball teams are gearing up for the summer season — and are looking for local baseball players to join their team.

Ken Oler, who will head into his ninth season as head coach, said he could not be more excited for what is to come.

“I love being part of the player growth process. Sharing my passion, love of the game and knowledge with those who have the desire to improve on and off the field,” Oler said about why he coaches. “There are a lot of life lessons that go hand and hand with any sport.

Oler himself is a veteran, which is another reason why he loves coaching American Legion baseball. He said it is important to him to play in the honor of those who protect our freedoms. He believes being a part of Legion baseball is much larger than the game itself.

“We join together, we believe in one another, and we push each other to achieve a level of greatness that can only be reached when we all work together as one,” Oler said when asked about why athletes should join the team this year. “If you truly want to get better and be a part of something big, then this is the environment for you.”

Not only do the Lakers provide a sense of belonging to athletes, but they also are able to compete in state championships unlike club baseball teams. The Lakers have made it to the state championship game multiple times in recent history.

The Lakers have had great success during Oler’s tenure. They competed at Borleske Stadium in 2015, won the Big Bucks Championship in Libby in 2017, the district championship in 2021 and 2022, and went to the state championship game three out of the last six years.

“I am extremely proud of the guys for getting us there and I smile as I reflect on all of this,” Oler said.

For information about eligibility, tryout and registration, the coaching staff and more, visit the North Idaho Post 15 American Legion Baseball and Ladies Fastpitch Facebook page or contact Ken Oler at koler@verifunds.net

The deadline to register for tryouts is April 15. A tryout will be held May 15 to get a feel for the number of players and number of teams the Lakers will have for the season.