Fastpitch fans are in for a treat this week. From August 13th to 17th, the Pembina Valley is playing host to the 2025 U15 Canadian Fastpitch Championships, bringing together elite young athletes from across Canada to the Morden/Winkler area.
Teams from coast to coast, including strong contenders from British Columbia and Ontario, will compete at the Central Energy Park diamonds in Winkler. Assistant Coach for Central Energy U15 Todd Folkett described the tournament as a “once in a lifetime opportunity,” talking about the level of talent on display.
“It’s the best fastball players in Canada coming, and everybody has earned their spot after a long season,” Folkett said. “I think for people to come and see elite athletes, we don’t get this opportunity very often.”
Training for the big one
Local players have been preparing rigorously, practicing three times a week and getting familiar with the diamonds where much of the tournament will be played. Player Bree Pearce said, “We focus really hard on things like defence and batting to be as ready as we can.”
The excitement is palpable among the players, with Bree and teammate Blaine Wiebe sharing their passion for the sport, both inspired by family members who played fastpitch before them.
“My dad and my papa,” Blaine said, “They played fastpitch when they were kids, and then it just grew into me.”
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Folkett encourages families and sports fans to come out and have a great time with the family.
“The city has done a lot of great work, the diamonds look beautiful, and we’re ready to go,” he said. “It takes a big group of volunteers to run something like this, and our community is excited to host.”
Tourney tickets are available at the park, with day passes or full-week passes offered, with children under 12 able to attend for free.