Medstead and District Recreation Association (MADRA) is finishing up its t-ball and toss ball season for the year. Through the work of the association, volunteers and the coach, local children of Medstead had the opportunity to learn valuable skills. Crucial abilities to growing children including sportsmanship, teamwork and technical skills were brought forth in the program that began in May.
Local community member, Pam Ross, was the coach of the Medstead group. The team practiced for five to six weeks. Practices have been held on Tuesday evenings, depending on the accommodation of the weather. The program boasted an impressive membership of 21 participants. Children with ages ranging between four and eight years were split into two teams. The younger partook in t-ball and the older in toss ball.
Naturally, a small fee was associated for the participants. This covered the use of equipment and the diamonds. The program serves as an effective introduction to the sport of softball, a Saskatchewan favourite.
According to Ross, “We practice skills like throwing with technique, batting, catching, field movement and field positions.”
All of the noted skills are vital to success in softball, not to mention the team spirit and camaraderie learned through sporting exposure. Having been actively involved in the learning focused program over the last four years, either as an assistant or coach, Ross noted that the program has gotten smaller over the years. Ross stated that in the past the endeavour involved many teams that played in leagues.
This gives all the more credit to Ross and the remarkable help from parents which she noted receiving. It is important to continue sporting traditions. Sports are a key method of keeping the modern generation of children active, healthy, happy and in touch with more traditional recreation. 2017 had a fantastic team turnout, with the coach expressing her excitement at having so many kids playing this year.
The season was to have its grand finale with a game on Tuesday, June 20 at 7 p.m. against the Glaslyn team, giving the children a chance to display the learned skills, both social and technical, in a competitive environment.
With such a successful turnout of participants, the facilitation of enthusiastic and helpful parents, and dedicated coaches like Pam Ross, the program is sure to be a big hit for years to come. The t-ball and toss ball endeavour is just one of the many events coordinated by MADRA, with Canada 150 celebrations right around the corner. The July 1st weekend event will also host a plethora of excitement, including softball, a bonfire and a demolition derby.
MADRA is truly one of the organizations that keeps Medstead an engaged community. The annual program of t-ball and toss ball is one of the best ways to involve the youth in the spirit and culture of Medstead and Saskatchewan as a whole.
