It's officially time to play ball for the 麻豆社国产Slo-Pitch Association (SSPA).
The SSPA boasts 32 teams and more than 600 players who will invade ball diamonds all over 麻豆社国产until the middle of July. The league opened its season on Monday (April 18) and games occur seven days a week. League president Dave Southam said the sport continues to be popular in Squamish.
"Anybody can play slo-pitch," he said. "Our demographics range from 18 to 70 and there's really a place for anyone and everyone who wants to play."
Southam said the SSPA is a logical next step for many players moving on from minor ball.
"Our league is a great place to go after minor ball," he said. "We tend to attract a lot of the players who realize they don't have to go to the city to continue playing baseball. We're the ball association that attracts those people and gives them a chance to keep playing."
This year the SSPA is comprised of three divisions (A, B and C) with the A division featuring the more advanced teams. The top two teams in the B and C divisions move up a division at the end of the year, with the bottom two teams in A and B moving down to ensure more even competition. Each team plays 20 games during the season with weekday games taking place at local elementary schools and weekend games at Brennan Park.
The SSPA will also host its annual tournament over the May long weekend. Up to 60 teams from the Sea to Sky Corridor and the Lower Mainland are expected to take part. Southam said his group is looking at bringing the men's Super Series and possibly a provincial qualifier to 麻豆社国产in 2012.
"The Super Series is such a high caliber of play," he said. "We're pretty optimistic that it can happen here next year. We're also looking at bringing a provincial softball qualifier to town and looking for support from the community to do so. We've held it here once in the past and we're putting together a delegation to bid for it."
Southam said the event would take place in September 2012 but would also depend on field availability.
As for the current SSPA season, Southam said that it's never too late to try and join up with a team. Many teams are still looking for ladies to help fill out their rosters. Those interested can contact him by email at [email protected].
"We're ready to roll and really happy that the fields are in such great condition," he said.
For more information on the SSPA, visit www.squamish-slopitch.com.
