Andy Bilesky Memorial Park will be the site of more provincial baseball action as B.C. Little League awarded Trail the 2014 Provincial championship for 9-10-year-old minor baseball.
Seven districts from across the province will vie for the B.C. Title including the host team from the West Kootenay in a round robin that begins July 12th and goes until the final match on July 19th.
“We are very excited for the opportunity to host these provincials,” said tournament co-chair Keith DeWitt. “It is not just about putting on yet another great sporting even, it is a chance to show off the excellent facilities, parks, and businesses in the Greater Trail area. Any time you get the chance to bring people and attention to our city, I think you should jump at it. ”
The team selection process will begin in March as players start workouts in the Willie Kraus Field House, with players from Trail, Rossland, Beaver Valley, Castlegar, Nelson, and Grand Forks eligible to play. The selection of the All Star Team is to be completed in June.
The Trail Minor Baseball Tournament Committee will be looking for volunteers to help with the planning and running of the tournament.
Organizers are also on the lookout for sponsors to help raise funds for maintenance to the ballpark, signage, programs, souvenirs, a welcome banquet, and an opening ceremonies.
“We have excellent facilities and parks, and the people and businesses always step up to welcome visitors.
“Trail hosted the Provincials for the 11-12 year olds a couple of years ago, and they put on such a great event, that BC Little League didn’t hesitate to give us the opportunity again. I think it will be a great week for the kids and the families, and I hope that we can generate a lot of support from the community to put on a first-class event.”
Trail Minor Baseball hosted the 2012 B.C. Little League championship which brought over 200 players, coaches, parents, fans, and support staff to Trail.