The Bellingham Bells are rolling out a new youth travel baseball club called Bells Northwest Select, extending the reach of their existing Junior Bells Development program. The initiative will field teams from the 8‑under through 18‑under age groups, with tryouts scheduled for late July and additional dates in August.
Year‑Round Development Model
What sets Bells Northwest Select apart is its focus on long‑term player growth. Rather than a seasonal snapshot, the program offers structured indoor practices twice a week during the winter, a spring league that pits teams against regional opponents, and 15 summer practices culminating in five local tournaments. Weekly speed and agility sessions, unlimited cage time, and equipment discounts are built into the package.
Professional coaching is guaranteed at every level. Josh Berry, who serves as the 13U coach and also holds the title of Base by Pros general manager, described the initiative as a lifelong dream. ‘Players can build confidence and sharpen their skills throughout the full season,’ he said, noting that the program is designed to serve roughly 400 children already engaged in the Bells’ development pipeline.
Stephanie Morrell, the Bells’ general manager, emphasized the financial support available. ‘Fees for the youngest groups can reach $3,000, but fundraising efforts are expected to offset a significant portion of those costs,’ she explained. Older age brackets carry higher price tags, with 12U‑13U players paying $3,500 each and 14U‑18U participants facing up to $4,350, though flexible scheduling is offered for recreational leagues.
Tryout logistics are already in motion. The first session, held on July 9, welcomed about 50 kids aged 8‑11 and 12‑13. Upcoming dates include August 6 for the 8‑11 cohort, July 23 for the 12‑13 group, and additional sessions on July 23 and August 6 for the 14‑18 age bracket.