The Senior B Western Canadian Fastpitch Championships are returning to Abbotsford in 2016.

Abbotsford last hosted the event in 2012, and bid committee member Harv Wiens confirmed that the 16-team event returns to Exhibition Park from Aug. 18 to 21.

Wiens said these types of events can help build the sport locally.

“We’re trying to grow the game and bring these events here so we can get more kids and families interested in the sport,” he said. “This is a game you can play for life. It’s not something you have to give up when you turn 18 or 19. I played with a guy who was 76 last year.”

The event will feature eight men’s and eight women’s teams from B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Northwest Territories. The teams are all either provincial champions or provincial runner-ups.

Both the men’s and women’s draws will feature a team from Abbotsford – the top local finisher at provincials will receive a host berth.

Wiens said the event is looking for volunteers, and those interested can contact him at 2016westerns@gmail.com. No previous experience is necessary for any of the volunteer positions.

The championships are part of a busy summer for fastpitch in Abbotsford, with the sport also being played at the BC Summer Games from July 21 to 24.