For over 25 years kids have been playing ball at the Rotary Park Field of Dreams. The Park, located just off Victoria Airports’ runway 31, is a place kids can dream of becoming a pilot, playing in the big leagues, or just getting a burger and fries after the game.
The Peninsula Baseball and Softball Association (www.pbsa.ca) is focused on providing a fun, safe and affordable ball program for Peninsula youth. Girls and boys are welcomed into “rally-cap” at age five, advance to “tadpole” at seven, and can play right through high school. If desired, girls can move over to the softball program at six and can advance through competitive levels until they are 19.
Kids learn to interact with coaches and teammates, build self-esteem and confidence, and that there is more to life than Pokémon, Star Wars and ipads. They learn to expect the completely unexpected; to run, bat, catch, throw, laugh and yell, and all as part of a team. With real uniforms. (Some kids have been known to sleep in a team jersey for nights after receiving their first one.) Kids are taught to deal with adversity, failure, and physical challenges, within a supportive and relaxed atmosphere. If they hit a ball – that’s great. If they catch a pop-up – even better. To run the bases, make it home safely, all in front of mom or dad; that’s priceless.
Practices and games are generally scheduled early on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings and the season runs from April through June. The whole experience is designed to complement the many other activities available on the Peninsula.
It’s not hard to understand why ball is such a popular alternative. A child does not have to be the biggest, strongest or fastest to participate. It’s inexpensive, and equipment (a glove and helmet) can last for years. Parents sit together sharing food and drinks, soaking up the sun, discussing potential summer camps and upcoming birthdays, all the while cheering on the junior athletes. The games are not measured in minutes, periods or quarters. An inning takes as long as an inning takes. Every child gets a chance to shine, but all strike out, drop balls, and over throw their target. They soon learn that they get another chance, and another, and another. They learn sportsmanship, to be gracious when winning, and how to shake off a loss. A popsicle after the game never hurt either.
Annual registration for all levels is open for the 2015 season at www.pbsa.ca, and runs through February 15th. There is an opportunity for those so inclined to make some extra cash as umpires, and spectators of all ages are sure to love the experience.
