CARLYLE - Traditionally, the first weekend in June is Carlyle Minor Ball Days and this year was no exception.
Players ranging in ages from four to 16 enjoyed beautiful weather with girls’ fast pitch held on June 4. The next day, fans were treated to both boys’ baseball and the younger age groups.
On June 5, six and seven year olds played in junior and senior rally cap ball, and the four and five year olds participated in learn to play ball. In addition to Carlyle, there were teams from Alameda, Carnduff, Estevan, Moosomin, Oxbow, Redvers and Wawota. Teams played a round-robin format with no winners being declared.
Brandy East is the treasurer of Carlyle Minor Ball.
“We had great weather to work with all weekend long,” she said. “They are now 17 minor ball teams in our town, with a full complement of coaches. Our board is committed to providing a quality ball program. We have many surrounding communities that participate with us and provincial teams like the super novas that utilize the facilities.”
“Carlyle Minor Ball continues to work at evolving and improving our minor ball program. This past weekend is extremely critical for our finances and the crowds were impressive. We just successfully completed another Southern Plains Co-op gift card fundraiser that generated $7,000.
“This year our profits are being used to purchase a new portable pitching mound to keep up with Baseball Sask. programs.”
“And finally, our organization wishes to thank the local Lions Club. They have had a beautiful vision to improve the food booth, the bathroom facilities and have completed numerous diamond upgrades. We are striving to maintain a collaborative relationship with them and appreciate their efforts.”
Craig Savill of the Carlyle and District Lions Club chairs the Lions food booth committee. “When a service group like the Lions puts a project together, it must be a total team effort. Operating a food booth requires organization, commitment, and a desire to do well. We get many compliments on our work and the quality of our food served. It is great for families to be able to enjoy a day at the park.”
Minor ball league playoffs and provincials are scheduled for the last week in June so Lions Park should remain busy all month long. East concluded the interview with a thought.
“The experiences and friendships made during the spring minor ball season reminds us of why we get involved in sport and teach our youth about commitment, teamwork, and having fun.”
