Jamie Mitchell - Technical Director and 18U BAEL Head Coach
Baseball has always been at the center of Coach Jamie’s life. From the time he picked up a glove at five years old, he developed a passion for the game that carried him through a standout playing career and into a highly respected coaching journey. Though primarily a catcher, Jamie also pitched professionally and has spent years working closely with both college and professional pitchers, giving him a rare dual perspective on the game.
Jamie’s early playing years were highlighted by major achievements, including winning the 2004 Bantam Canadian National Championship and the 2004 Alberta Summer Games, as well as representing Alberta at the 2007 Canada Cup. After high school, he moved to Lethbridge to join the Prairie Baseball Academy, where he quickly became a force in the lineup—leading the league in batting average and earning All-Canadian Catcher honors in both 2009 and 2010.
His college career continued to soar. Jamie competed in the 2011 College World Series, and in 2012 he was named GNAC Conference Catcher of the Year and All-Around Defensive Player of the Year, throwing out over 65% of base stealers—a statistic few catchers ever approach. His performance earned him a professional opportunity, and in 2014 he signed with the Tampa Bay Rays, where he learned under renowned catching guru Paul Hoover.
As a coach, Jamie has spent the past decade giving back to the sport that shaped him. In 2018 he launched JM Elite Baseball, a winter skill-development program designed to help Calgary athletes elevate their game. His background in kinesiology and certification as a personal trainer give him a deep understanding of biomechanics, movement, and proper technique—allowing him to help athletes reach their full physical and athletic potential. He also served as the Strength Coach for the Vauxhall Baseball Academy in 2017 and 2018, working alongside performance expert Jeff Krushell.
Within the Calgary Cubs organization, Jamie’s leadership has been transformative.
In 2024, he guided the Calgary Cubs 18U AAA team to a Provincial Championship, securing the program’s first opportunity to compete in Baseball Alberta’s Elite League. In 2025, he once again led the Cubs to a standout season—taking the BAEL roster to the Provincial Finals and successfully earning the honor of representing Alberta at the Western Canadian Championships.
Through every chapter of his career, Coach Jamie has remained committed to one mission: simplifying the hardest game in the world and helping athletes develop confidence, discipline, and a deep love for baseball. His experience, passion, and dedication continue to shape the next generation of talent in Calgary and beyond.