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This past weekend, Killarney was buzzing thanks to the annual ball tournament that saw hundreds come out and enjoy great on the field talent, as well as the community.
One of the organizers, Pam Skeoch, couldn't be more thrilled with how well the event went. "On Saturday, we had 44 teams join us. 25 softball teams and 19 baseball teams from around the region. It was awesome. We were able to play some teams that aren't in our league, so it was nice to see some different teams in action. The weather was amazing this year. Last year's tournament was cancelled because of snow, but this year we couldn't ask for better weather."
As far as attendance goes, Skeoch says it was a smashing success and welcoming so many people the community was very special. "We had 1450 fans and players go through the gate on Saturday. We heard lots of positive feedback all day on how the tournament was run and organized. Teams got two games each, each age group played twice and this was a fundraiser for our big diamond project that we'll be doing later in the summer and fall. It takes a lot of volunteers to make a day like that work, so we want to thank all the people that worked the gate and canteen shifts, as well as all the board members that made it happen. We had umpires from Killarney, Boissevain, Wawanesa and Hartney. With that many games going on, we needed help from surrounding communities and they stepped up.
Skeoch says she made sure to take a few moments and appreciate all that was taking place. "It was a great, great day. The diamonds were full, people were coming and going all day. We went around and made sure things were going well, it was great to talk with people. It was a special day. Getting to see the kids and the players enjoying the day, it was great. We really appreciated all the people coming from far. We had teams from Rock Lake, Rivers, Virden, Hamiota, Reston, Brandon, just lots of communities were able to come take part."
Having over 1400 people on the day highlighted the importance of the diamonds project that they were raising money for. "It absolutely showcased a need," Skeoch says with a smile. "Right now, we have two diamonds in really good shape and now, with the upcoming fall project, we'll be able to do the other seven diamonds and have them look great as well."
The event is a huge boost for Killarney and many local businesses benefited. "We gave the restaurants a heads up, because we know it would be a busy day for them. I'm sure families took some time to go up town and check out the local stores."
Looking back, Skeoch says the biggest reward was that families and teams got to spend a lot of quality time together. "When the teams were not playing, teams and families were sitting around and enjoying the day. Seeing them spend time together really means a lot."
The annual event is already being thought about for 2026. "We have it on the same weekend every year," Skeoch says proudly. "It's that weekend in May and it's known as Killarney's annual ball tournament. We're already looking forward to next year."
@steinbach_online The annual Killarny ball tournament was a huge success!! Check out the story on #SteinbachOnline for more information.
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