Here we are at mid-July and we’re pretty much wrapping up our regular season/tournaments for community-level softball here in Springfield.  And what a season it has been.  Everyone at SMSA is hugely proud of all of our players for their efforts and achievements.  And of course, a heart-felt thank you to the parents who supported the teams in any way they could – it means a lot.

We’re hoping to bring several ‘Reports from the Diamond’ as general recaps from the season from individual coaches or teams.  To kick things off, here is a report from Coach Perry (Ducharme) on his U10B team:

Congratulations to the Springfield Heat U10B for a successful 2017 season!  For the second year in the row, they continue to set new records for the SMSA U10B program at both Provincials and regular season action.  Also, player stats were just as impressive, such as more hits off pitchers compared to the opposition in every game.  Plus our pitchers hand delivered more strikes too!  Who is more ready for U12 ball?!?  What is most important is the growing smiles and the little swagger in their step as they entered the batter’s box.  Our goals were all about player development again, and I’m confident to say that each player elevated their game.  Most of the team will be moving up to U12 for next season, and I hope they return because they definitely have game.  I’m very proud of this group for all their hard work and memorable accomplishments.

I’d like to say a special thank you to all the volunteers for contributing to this outstanding season: David Duval (Team Manager), Cory D’Ottavio (Assistant Coach), Marty Piec (Assistant Coach), Erin Toews (Bench Mom), Kim Harmatiuk (Stats), Dawn D’Ottavio (Stats), Maddy Hopkins (Assistant Clinician), Ruth Hiebert (Head Pitching Instructor), Charmaine Bergen (Lead Clinician), and especially all the parents for their contributions.  Seeing a sea of fans dressed in red at each game was motivating for both the players and the volunteer coaches.  Hot chocolates at that cold practice, ‘The Candy Jar’ for game hits off the pitcher, cupcakes, fruit shish kabobs, reading my story book emails, etc…..were all impactful towards our success.  Most importantly, the players literally invested blood, sweat and tears!  That second Provincials game in the windy rain with 5 degree temperature just goes to show how tough our girls truly are!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coach Perry