North Bay, ON – Nipissing Lakers Athletics and the Nipissing District Softball Club have officially joined forces to launch a new Junior Lakers partnership, strengthening opportunities for girls' softball development in the North Bay region.
As part of the new affiliation, the Nipissing District Softball Club will now compete under the Jr. Lakers identity, aligning its teams with the Lakers brand and the values of Nipissing University Athletics.
Through this agreement, Nipissing District Softball Club Jr. Lakers teams will adopt Lakers branding, colours, and logos across uniforms and apparel, while continuing to operate their programming independently. The partnership officially takes effect in 2026.
Although Nipissing University does not currently field a varsity softball program, both organizations see the partnership as a forward-looking investment in youth sport, gender equity, and long-term community engagement.
"Partnering with the Nipissing District Softball Club reflects our commitment to growing sport in our community and supporting young athletes, particularly in emerging and expanding women's sports," said Sarah Batley, Director of Athletics at Nipissing University. "The Jr. Lakers program represents aspiration, connection, and a sense of belonging. This partnership allows us to extend those values beyond varsity pathways and into grassroots development."
Founded to meet the growing demand for inclusive, organized softball programming in the region, the Nipissing District Softball Club has quickly become a hub for youth fastpitch development. The Board of Nipissing District Softball Club believes the Jr. Lakers affiliation will inspire the next generation of athletes while strengthening ties between families and the University:
"The Nipissing District Softball Club recognizes that the Jr. Lakers partnership is about more than branding—it's about visibility, belief, and opportunity. Aligning with Nipissing University sends a powerful message to our athletes that their sport matters and that their community believes in them. We're proud to become Jr. Lakers and to represent the values of the Lakers brand on and off the field."
The affiliation further supports Nipissing University's broader commitment to student recruitment, community connection, and the advancement of women's sport at all stages of the athlete pathway.
About the Nipissing District Softball Club
Founded in 2025, the Nipissing District Softball Club is dedicated to providing inclusive, high-quality fastpitch softball programming for athletes of all abilities in the North Bay and surrounding region. NDSC focuses on skill development, athlete wellbeing, and creating positive sport experiences that support both athletic and personal growth.
About Nipissing University Lakers
Founded 1992, Nipissing University is located in North Bay, Ontario on a stunning 291 hectare escarpment surrounded by beautiful trails and lakes. Nipissing is a young vibrant University that offers a personalized environment where you can excel in academics and athletics.
Nipissing University Athletics is home to 14 varsity teams, including Men's and Women's Cross Country, Hockey, Soccer, Nordic Skiing, Volleyball, Basketball, and Rowing, as well as Men's Lacrosse, which competes in CUFLA. Nipissing also offers a wide range of club sports and intramural programs, with athletics and recreation continuing to grow each year.
