The Emerging Players Programme (EPP), an initiative designed to identify, develop and increase the number of young players able to meet the standards for national team selection, will start in early 2026.

The EPP is a joint initiative between the British Baseball Federation, Great Britain Baseball and BaseballSoftballUK with funding being made available through Sport England.

Two pilot programmes, for 11 to 15 year olds, will be held across London & the South East and the West & East Midlands.

Each pilot will be led by a team of experienced coaches. Will Lintern heads up the London & South East programme and will take overall charge of the EPP.

The Midlands pilot will be led by Birmingham Baseball Club’s Bob Rowe who will be joined by GB U18 head coach Matt Moran.

During January, February, March and April, there will be a total of six weekend training sessions across both programmes three at each site. The dates as follows

  • 25th January – London & Southeast
  • 31st January – Midlands
  • 22nd February – London & Southeast
  • 28th February – Midlands
  • 28th March – Midlands
  • 29th March – London & Southeast

Later in the year, a EPP Series of games is planned for the participants as well as a three day Summer Camp.

Expansion of the EPP into more regions is planned for 2027 and beyond, along with the reintroduction of a National Academy.

“Increasing youth participation and developing young talent to enable a pipeline into the Great Britain Baseball age groups is a key priority for the Federation and I am delighted that we have been able to work closely with coaches involved in the GB programme, the performance team at BSUK and Sport England to bring this initiative to fruition,” said Richard Evans, BBF President.

The EPP is also designed to improve the development of coaches across the country and strengthen the links between clubs and the national programme.

“Being able to develop young players and coaches is vital if we are to compete on the international stage in the long term,” said EPP Director Will Lintern.

“The EPP is designed for young players who have shown interest and ability to play above the grass roots level and is a vital bridge between club and national team.

“It will also provide an opportunity for coaches who have shown competency and have a desire to grow and develop.”

Alan Dean, BSUK’s Performance Programme Manager, said, “This is an excellent opportunity for younger players to come together regionally and experience great coaching, whilst developing their skills and exhibiting a desire to learn. This is a hugely important stage of the Player pathway developed jointly by the BBF and BSUK.”

Clubs with existing youth programmes in the two regions have been asked to recommend suitable players for the EPP Pilots.

Further details will be published early in the New Year.

For further information, please email epp@britishbaseball.org.uk.