Spring is on it’s way and Barriere Minor Ball (BMB) is gearing up for the season ahead.
BMB executive say this year is already looking positive in terms of player/parent participation. Last week BMB hosted a pitching clinic instructed by Joni Frei of Next Level Athletic Training, and it proved to be a great success for all concerned.
Three sessions were held with players as young as four-years-old and up taking part. Participants traveled in from Kamloops and Clearwater.
Proper pitching technique was taught to the participants, as well as many useful tools to help players become competitive softball pitchers. Everyone was reminded not to forget to keep practicing their pitching.
A number of other softball clinics are being offered to players and coaches this season as well. The clinics are being held in Barriere and will include a Certified Umpires Course.
BMB encourages people to take advantage of these opportunities and participate in as many clinics as possible.
“With some practice and ongoing support, our ball teams can once again, participate at the competitive level of softball being played here in B.C.,” says BMB.
This year the Squirt Girls Provincials are being held in Cranbrook and the Squirt Boys Provincials are being held in Cloverdale. The amount of interest from players, parents and coaches will determine if BMB teams will be competing.
BMB notes that in 2011 all teams and their players are guaranteed two home games in Barriere per week with the exception of the Peewee Boys team (Peewee Boys will be required to travel). In addition, out of town games can be scheduled at coaches and parents request. Based on registration numbers and individuals interests, there is also a possibility of creating a Rep team and/or teams.
• Ongoing indoor pitching, throwing and hitting practice is held weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays at The Ridge. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Please bring appropriate footwear and your ball glove.
• An outdoor batting cage will open to all players and coaches starting early April at the main Barriere Ball Field.
• One-on-one instruction by Ron Deflice will be available on certain days and times throughout the season.
Barriere Minor Ball dates to remember:
• Umpire clinic on Apr. 2, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., in The Ridge gymnasium. Chris Wilkinson, umpire in chief for District 11 to run the clinic. Barriere Minor Ball will sponsor individuals interested in certification in exchange for umping three games during the season ($25 per game) Participants must be thirteen years of age or older. All 2011 coaches are strongly encouraged to participate.
• Throwing clinic, Feb. 22, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m, in The Ridge gymnasium. Ron Deflice and Jen Beaudoin to coach. Parents and coaches are encouraged to come and watch and/or participate.
• Hitting/Batting clinic, Feb. 24, 5:30 – 7 p.m., in The Ridge gymnasium. Ron Deflice and Jen Beaudoin to coach. Parents and coaches encouraged to come and watch and/or participate
• Coaches meeting will be held in early April. Time and place TBA.
• Certification coaching clinic. Time and place TBA. Barriere Minor Ball will sponsor the certification for all 2011 coaches. All coaches are strongly encouraged to attend. (coaches must be certified to compete at Provincials)
• Registration Dates:
– Feb. 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at AG Foods
– March 9, 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., at Barriere Elementary School
– April 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at Barriere Curling Rink
Parents are asked to bring their child’s card number, and a cheque payable to Barriere Minor Ball as well as any Barriere Minor Ball uniforms that they may still have from previous years when signing up for the 2011 season.
For any additional information please contact:
Phil Ransome at 250-672-5846, or Joanna van Nieuwkerk at 250-672-2161.
