Vermilion Minor Ball cancels season

Major fundraiser Brian Poon Tournament delayed from 25th anniversary

Due to the overhead from Baseball Alberta and Softball Alberta, Vermilion Minor Ball executives made the decision to suspend their season as a whole.

“It was a very difficult decision to make,” said vice president, Karen Selte.

“Most of the associations in the area that we would participate with also suspended their seasons. In addition, we will need to make changes going forward, and needed time to be able to make those changes. Having to follow the two association’s rules, everyone was disappointed but they understood that safety for everyone was a priority.”

She also said that they were very disappointed to not be able to host the annual Brian Poon Tournament. Aside from being their major fundraiser, they had been looking forward to celebrating the 25th anniversary.

Last year the club saw 115 participants throughout the season aged 3 – 19. The Brian Poon Tournament generally sees about 300 people through the gates.

Selte said that last year they had promoted the new businesses and the visitors were given a chance to experience the downtown. Some participants camped at the Provincial Park and made use of the spray park or mini golf, as well as the golf course making it a whole weekend event.

“Lots of people rave about our ball diamonds. We have excellent facilities and the town does a good job of maintenance,” said Selte.

“In the meantime, some of our members have been going for runs, practising their pitching, or simply playing catch. I encourage players and their families to do whatever they can to keep their love of the game alive.”