MACKLIN--Six teams competed in Twilite 35+ Baseball Provincials in Macklin July 8-10, with the home team, Macklin Lakers Twilite team coming out with a 7-6 victory in the final over the Kipling Knights.
Town of Macklin, CAO, Kim Gartner, who was also a member of the winning team, says of the event, “It was a good, competitive event. Macklin is fortunate to have volunteers step up for multiple hosting duties this summer that include four provincial ball events as well as the World Championship Bunnock tournament in August.”
Gartner says proceeds from the weekend were donated to Macklin Minor Ball Association as they have done a fantastic job in the upkeep and upgrades at the beautiful diamond’s venue ball teams and these events get to experience.
Special recognition for long-time ball supporter
The opening ceremonies included a special presentation to long-time supporter of the ball program in Macklin, Jack Daley. Daley was invited to throw out the official first pitch of the provincial event.
Gartner says Daley began his senior baseball career at the ripe age of 13 when a local senior ball club was in danger of folding. He continued to play until 1986, spanning a 23-year career with 20 of those years serving as catcher for the team. Daley was acknowledged for not only being a great teammate but a great mentor to younger players. Daley graduated to the Twilite Baseball Club where he competed for an additional 10 years, again as catcher, finally retiring in 1986.
Daley served as player, coach, and volunteer for ball programs in Macklin. During the first construction phase of the community’s ball diamonds, Daley spent many hours moving dirt as areas were levelled for the red, blue, and green diamonds. His desire to help provide great ball facilities for future generations kept him engaged in the ball program, even to this day.
Also on July 10, the U15 Macklin Lakers girl's softball team, captured a provincial silver medal in Saskatoon.
Macklin will play host to three more provincial championships as July 22-24 they will host both 13U and 18U provincial baseball and senior baseball provincials Aug 5-7.
