The Manitoba Prairie Queens, a competitive slow-pitch team that has quickly made a name for themselves in the slow pitch world, returned from Alberta this weekend with a silver medal from the SPN (Slow Pitch Nationals) in Leduc, AB.
"We ended up bringing home a silver medal," said team leader Melora Barton, who also plays and helps run the team. "It was such an incredible feeling."
This year marked the team's first season together, and it's been a journey of growth and triumph. While many of the players had been involved in the slow-pitch scene for years, it was Melora, her sister Ashley Ozunko, and their good friend Jess McDougall who decided to form their own competitive squad.
"We got together and we were like, 'We can make our own team,' Barton explained. "We can make a competitive team that travels."
And travel they did. The team dominated local tournaments, including winning the Winnipeg Women's League, and eventually found themselves competing at nationals in Alberta. Their journey to the finals wasn't without its challenges. After going 3-1 in round-robin play, the Prairie Queens earned a 'double life' in the playoffs, but their momentum took a hit after a tough loss in their first playoff game.
"We had to take the long road all the way back up," Barton recalled.
Their resilience paid off, however, as they ultimately advanced to the finals where they faced a seasoned and talented Alberta team. The Prairie Queens had previously defeated them in round-robin play, but by the time the championship game rolled around, fatigue had set in after eight games.
"Everyone just kind of ran out of steam," Barton admitted. Despite the exhaustion, the team's spirit remained high, and they left the field filled with pride and joy for how far they had come.
"We were just so happy with how far our team had come," Barton said, "We've come a long way this year, and I couldn't be prouder."
Looking ahead, the team has big plans for next season.
"We just plan to get even better and travel more," Barton shared. While the team is considering returning to nationals in the hopes of winning the gold, they are also eyeing the next level of competition. "We're just so proud of our team, and I'm excited to see what the future holds."
As they continue to build their legacy, Barton was quick to give a special shout-out to McDougall, calling her the "Wiley vet" of the team. "She still smashes the ball," Barton said, emphasizing the strong bond the team shares.
The Manitoba Prairie Queens' journey is just beginning, and with their silver medal in hand, they're more determined than ever to reach new heights in the world of competitive slow-pitch.
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