IBL's Welland Jackfish sign Essery to contract extension

The Intercounty Baseball League’s Welland Jackfish have signed manager Brian Essery to a three-year contract extension. Photo: Welland Jackfish

October 23, 2025

Official Welland Jackfish News Release

WELLAND, ONT. – The Welland Jackfish have announced that Brian Essery will return as the field manager through the 2028 season after signing a three-year contract extension.

The upcoming season will be Essery’s seventh season with the Jackfish.

After being announced as Welland's first skipper before the start of the 2019 season, Essery has led the club to winning records in all six seasons at the helm. Finishing the 2025 season with a third straight IBL Pennant and second franchise championship, Essery was also awarded the 2025 IBL Field Manager of the Year.

"I’m looking forward to returning and having the opportunity to defend our championship,” said Essery. “This is such a great organization with tremendous leadership and an incredible fan base. This team and organization are still growing, and I’m excited to be working with the players and management for the next three years.”

Finishing his sixth season with the Jackfish, Essery has recorded a franchise 159-75 record with two IBL championships, along with multiple league awards and all-star selections.

"The very first person I signed to begin our time in Welland was Ess. He has been an absolutely integral part of what we have built, sustained, and achieved,” said Jackfish General Manager Jason McKay. "That is why we prioritized re-signing him for another three years in order to maintain a winning culture for years to come."