The 1974 Yellowknife Junior Merchants were the first team from the Northwest Territories to win a National Competition.

In August 1974, this team came together to travel to Ottawa, ON to compete in the first-ever Canadian Junior Men`s Softball Championships. Despite a lack of confidence before their first game, the team came out with a win defeating New Brunswick 10-2. Their confidence started to build as they continued their streak to place first in the red division moving on to the double elimination playoff.

Although the team took the long route to the finals, due to a first round loss to Ontario, the team defeated Quebec 6-5 in the finals to win the tournament.

Notable achievements – Greg Vaydik earned a spot on the top 10 hitters list and a spot on the All-Star team, alongside Coach Bernie Boyd. Leroy Eliason was on the top 5 pitchers list and received the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.

The team members are:

• Wilf Chiasson – Coach
• Bernie Boyd – Coach
• Ray Gagnon – Captain
• Rick Muyres
• Ron Muyres
• Ron Lehman
• Steve Vallillee
• Dan Scriven
• Rod Stirling
• Greg Vaydik
• Doug Davidge
• Bob MacLean
• Ralf Lehniger
• Mark Gryba
• Cary Gryba
• Brade Enge
• Bob McLarnon
• Leroy Eliason
• Wayne Jeske