“Get to know your PSO (Provincial Sport Office)” is a new feature on baseball.ca that will provide an informative look at each of the ten Provincial Baseball Organizations throughout Canada. The 2014 baseball season has already begun for some provinces, while others are still counting down the days until they can get on the field. Either way, baseball season is upon us so let’s take a closer look at the organizations that help bring baseball to communities across our country!
Manitoba
The facts…
Name of PSO: Manitoba Baseball Association aka - Baseball Manitoba
President: Ken Sharpe
Executive Director: Morgan de Peña
Phone #: 204-925-5763
Major Awards: Province of the Year (1987, 1990, 1995, 1999, 2008, 2010)
Three things to watch for in 2014…
Growth of Grand Slam program
Grand Slam builds on the Rally Cap program, a program that has been very successful in Manitoba.
“Players, coaches and parents are looking for a follow-up program to Rally Cap, and Grand Slam fits that need,” said Baseball Manitoba Executive Director, Morgan de Peña. “In some areas Grand Slam is formally replacing Rookie ball, while other areas are taking a wait and see approach.
“The smaller sized team may not fly with traditionalist, but over time we hope that Grand Slam will become the program of choice for this age group. One of our associations, Carillon Minor Baseball, has successfully used this model for the last couple of seasons.”
Increase in RBI Approved programs across Manitoba
This spring 13 communities from the Carillon Minor Baseball Association met the criteria of the Reaching Baseball Ideals program and are now RBI Approved. Several other leagues in Manitoba are looking at doing the same thing, so that not just the league but also all communities can be RBI approved.
“We view this as a positive step forward for baseball in these communities, ensuring the participants and parents that quality Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) programming is available, added de Peña, while creating an environment where national standards are being followed.”
Hosting WCBA/Baseball Canada 13U Championships in Altona
Altona, MB will host the Western 13U National Championship August 14-18. The community of 3,500 has an extensive championship background annually hosting 1-2 provincial championships.
“Altona has long been one of the vibrant and active baseball communities in our province,” explained de Peña. “I am sure they are proud to show off their facilities and the volunteers, and will do an excellent job with this event.”
Finally, baseball enthusiasts across the province are still waiting for the lasting effects of a long winter to vacate so that baseball season can officially get underway. Season starts in less than one week!
