Thomas beck
Shawville July 17, 2021
The weather was perfect for ball games this weekend as the Shawville R.A. held a fastpitch showcase. Four teams competed, Quyon Flyers, Kingston Axemen, Napanee U19 Express and the Quebec U19 team.
The showcase kicked off Friday evening and held back-to-back games all day Saturday. The event was used as a way for teams to get games in this summer since some leagues didn’t begin their regular seasons due to COVID-19 restrictions in Ontario and Quebec.
“We need games. There’s no leagues, there’s no tournaments, there’s none of that competitive edge. So, when we heard there’s a good quality men’s showcase, we jumped on the opportunity to play right away.” said Express head coach Cory Brooks.
The showcase was organized by Matt Greer who plays a huge role in putting together major tournaments in the Pontiac.
“The softball community is pretty small,” said Greer.
Greer alluded to his connections with past coaches and teammates being a factor in getting clubs to come to Shawville and compete. He was happy to have both the Napanee and the Quebec U19 programs come to Shawville, Greer has been trying to help grow the sport of softball and demonstrate the sport’s accessibility to younger generations in the Ottawa Valley.
“In a sport people say is dying, this is an example of how it is still thriving here in Canada. These young kids are taking an opportunity to travel and play competitive ball,” said Greer, “It’s amazing to see.”
Overall, the morale was high as players were excited to finally get out on the diamond and play some competitive ball in front of fans.
“Seeing these guys all back on the field smiling and bonding off the field is second to none,” said Brooks.
Brooks had a big smile on his face as he compared playing in the showcase to scratching a winning lottery ticket.
