The 2017 baseball season saw the return of hardball to Bradford West Gwillimbury, a side of baseball that had been missing from the community since 2009.
In 2009, there were only 64 kids registered. This year, the Bradford Minor Baseball Association had 212 youth players in just the second season of action.
"Bringing competitive hardball back to Bradford gives kids the chance to play at a higher level here at home instead of having to go outside the community. Sports (teach) teamwork and problem-solving skills, boost self-esteem, and promote a healthy and active lifestyle," said Shawna Miller, the association's publicity director.
"The house league will still exist in Bradford for hardball and softball players, but now we can encourage talent and give those kids that want to play in a more competitive stream an outlet for it."
The next season will see the division growing once again with the addition of six select and rep divisions.
The competitive divisions include:
Rookie Select for 2010, 2011, 2012 with head coach Steve Foley
Minor Mosquito Rep for 2009 with head coach Jeff Nazzer
Mosquito Select for 2008, 2009 with head coach Faraz Khan
Peewee Select for 2006, 2007 with head coach John Rose
Peewee Rep A for 2006 with head coach Donnie Censori
Minor Bantam A for 2005 with head coach Pre Svirac
Tryouts will be held throughout September at Joe Magani Park fields.
Full details and registration forms can be found online at bradfordstorm.ca or on the Bradford Minor Baseball Association Facebook page.
— Submitted by Shawna Miller, publicity director for the Bradford Minor Baseball Association. Edited by BradfordToday staff.
