Van De Ven: Women making their mark in Canadian baseball

Women’s National Team star Sena Catterall (Pierrefonds, Que.) was one of the panelists on the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame’s Women in Baseball event that was held on Wednesday night. Photo: Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame

February 5, 2026

By Stephane Van De Ven

Rawlings Canada

I was proud and humbled to represent Rawlings Canada as a co-host in Wednesday night’s Canadian Women in Baseball Live Panel & Discussion with Lindsay Earle from the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame.

It was a powerful reminder of just how much talent, leadership, and momentum women are bringing to the game and baseball industry across Canada.

We gathered to spotlight women who are not just part of baseball—but who are actively shaping it, strengthening it, and pushing it forward at every level.

Our panelists were nothing short of inspiring including:

-Toronto Blue Jays Vice President of Communications; Andrea Goldstein, sharing insight from inside one of the most recognized organizations in the sport.

-Sena Catterall- Baseball Canada's Women's National team & 2024 MVP -whose work continues to elevate the game and the people within it.

-Elizabeth Benn - Numerous roles in baseball and previously the director of operations for the New York Mets- bringing perspective, experience, and leadership.

-Tosha Hains - Umpire - Baseball Canada National Umpire Program - reminding us that growth in baseball happens through passion, persistence, and community.

-Candy McEwan - Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame Board of Directors.

We were also joined by special guest Sam Woj, an incredible visual artist whose work captures the heart and energy of baseball. Sam generously gave away one of her original pieces—an unforgettable moment that beautifully blended art and baseball.

The vibe of the evening was electric: confidence, connection, and collective pride. From grassroots diamonds to professional front offices, women across Canada are making waves, hitting home runs, and redefining what leadership in baseball looks like.

This panel wasn’t just a conversation—it was a statement.

You'll have to watch the stream on Youtube in the coming days for more inspiration and insight!

The live event will be featured on Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Youtube Channel in the coming days and we will be posting it on Rawlings Canada social media.

There are incredible women at all levels of baseball in this country. From the diamond up, they are showing up, standing tall, and continuing to make "the mark of a pro" in the baseball world.

To every girl and woman in baseball: it’s your turn. The path is lit. Step in and swing hard.