Put them in coach, they’re ready to play.
And have fun.
Mixed softball teams like Don’t Hassle The Hoff, Legitimately Bad People, Mooseknuckles, Ninja Squirrels and Belly Itchers are making their way to the North Okanagan for the annual Funtastic Sports and Music Festival, which kicks off Thursday night with games in Vernon.
Games will also be played throughout the holiday weekend in Armstrong and Enderby.
The are 216 teams – a sellout – playing in Vernon while another 84 teams converge in Armstrong and Enderby for a weekend of softball, fun, laughs, good times, and a lifetime of memories.
Teams can dress up in costumes and, hopefully, enjoy the tournament under a hot valley sun.
Besides softball, there is also the music aspect of the tournament, especially at the main stage in Vernon, where thousands will gather Thursday night to hear Canadian rock legends Glass Tiger belt out their hits from the 80s and 90s. American band Great White takes the stage Friday, and closing things out Saturday night is Bon Jovi tribute group Blaze of Glory.
A number of local and area bands also take the stage to provide a musical interlude from the softball.
More than 25 years since its inception, several teams and players are again taking part in the tournament, having never missed a Funtastic July long weekend.
The four-day event brings millions of dollars into the region, which the Funtastic Sports Society donates back into the community.
All in all, it’s a very fun way to celebrate Canada’s birthday.
—Vernon Morning Star
