OUR COACHES
Tyler Rathwell
Tyler Rathwell is a passionate and experienced baseball coach who has spent years helping young athletes grow both on and off the field, emphasizing goal setting, mental skills, and a deeper understanding of the game.
Tyler spent his playing years with the Ottawa Nepean Canadians before managing their 16U programs from 2019-2023. He then spent a season coaching professionally overseas with the Stockerau Cubs of the Austrian Bundesliga. He has been coaching with the Pirates for 2 years, and will be the programs technical director for the 2026 season.
Tyler believes in using baseball to teach life skills such as hard work, communications, and resilience, and is dedicated to creating positive, supportive environments where players can thrive.
Jim Bonner – Baseball Coach & Community Mentor
Jim has been deeply involved in baseball for most of his life. Growing up in the Pinecrest area, he began his playing career in Pinecrest Baseball Association, followed by 2 season with the Ottawa Canadians organization and eventually representing his teams at both the provincial and national levels.
For over 12 years, Jim has dedicated himself to coaching youth baseball in Kanata, giving back to the sport and community that shaped him. He has led competitive teams ranging from 10U to 18U, earning multiple tournament victories and helping players develop both on and off the field.
In recent years, Jim has focused on coaching within Little League, particularly at the Major and Junior levels. He is also known for offering specialized pitching support, working with multiple teams and individual players throughout their seasons to refine technique and build confidence on the mound.
Jim’s passion for the game, combined with his experience and commitment to youth development, makes him a valuable asset to the baseball community
Russ Mullins – Baseball Coach & Program Leader
Russ Mullins has been actively involved in baseball for most of his life, contributing to the sport in a wide range of roles. Head Coach for Kanata’s competitive and select teams, leading age groups from 10U through 16U with a strong emphasis on player development and team success. Through these years Russ coached the teams to successful seasons and tournament wins and qualifying to attend multiple OBA provincial championship tournaments.
In addition to his work on the field, Russ served on the Board of Directors for Kanata Baseball as the Director of Competitive Programs. In this role, he played a key part in organizing and overseeing the Kanata Rep Program from Rookie Ball through 18U. He also represented the association at the National Capital Ontario Baseball Association (NCOBA) league meetings for three years, helping shape local baseball policy and competition structure.
In recent seasons, Russ has led both Major and Junior Little League teams as Head Coach and has contributed to the West Ottawa Pirates organization as both a Head Coach and Assistant Coach, providing leadership and on-field instruction throughout the season.
Together, Russ and fellow coach Jim Bonner are committed to ensuring that every player they work with finishes the season as a stronger and more knowledgeable ballplayer than when they arrived at tryouts. Their coaching philosophy centers on player development, in-game strategies, baseball IQ, preparation, and fostering a competitive mindset.
Russ and Jim are excited for the 2026 season as part of the 16U West Ottawa Pirates coaching staff, where they’ll continue to build skilled, confident athletes both on and off the field.