In itself, the simplicity is beautiful; a bat, a ball and four bases. In its reality, it became the passion and pastime for many miners in the valley.
In the centennial year of coal mining in the valley, organizers are bringing baseball back to the dozens of men who grew up on the field. On June 17, there are plans for a five inning classic ball game featuring some of the baseball legends of Drumheller.
The organizers are looking for players to fill out the roster for the classic game. This is a chance for players to relive days gone by on the field.
Remie DeFoor is helping to put together the game. He realizes a number of players are now elderly, and may not be in game shape. Despite this, he hopes they will get involved as umpires and managers. He said there are a number already signed up.
“It is the heritage here that we want to praise,” said Cindy Clark, who is helping to organize the event.
Ron Bell and Jason Blanke are emceeing the event that will feature an east valley versus west game. They hope to compile biographical information on the players to introduce during the game.
DeFoor said even if some of the players from the early days are not able to play, they could join in the event just by coming out to watch. They are also hoping that residents bring some mementoes from the early days of baseball including uniforms, equipment and any other kind of memorabilia.
The action on the diamond does not end with the classic game on Friday night. On Saturday and Sunday, plans are in the works for an eight-team slo-pitch tournament.
DeFoor says spaces are filling up for the tournament, including former residents who have already assembled teams to play. The plan is that each team will take the name of a mine in the valley and create their logos for their uniforms.
The concession for the weekend will be managed and run by volunteers from Youth Bowling Canada, the Special Olympic Meteorites and the Club 55 Senior Bowling group. These groups are the named charities that will benefit from the concession.
“What a way to pull the communities together,” said Clark.
For more information or to register as a player for the Friday night classic game, or to enter a slo-pitch team contact DeFoor at 403-820-1314. Also for more information, e-mail Clark at sanddstonelanes@shaw.ca.
