The U13 provincials were held this past weekend at the newly renamed Jody Waloshin Softball Diamonds. The new name was announced during the opening ceremonies on Friday. Waloshin expressed surprise and gratitude, noting that the success was due to the support of many volunteers.
Waloshin began with Estevan Minor Softball (EMS) about 15 years ago when his children were old enough to play. "I started when my kids were of age to start softball and then just continued on from there,” he said. He emphasized that the work is done for the kids' development and enjoyment. “It’s for the kids... not only do you do it because you're parents and you want to spend time with your kids, but then it’s also the fun and enjoyment the kids have.”
He highlighted the need to support younger players and improve facilities. “We have some good opportunities and a good vision for supporting the younger groups—U7s, U9s,” Waloshin said. He also noted that Estevan offers both house and competitive leagues, which provide different experiences for players.
Waloshin has been recognized for his contributions, including being named Softball Coach of the Year in Saskatchewan twice, and his time with Softball Sask.
The renaming of the diamonds also included Diamond 5 being named after Don Schroder and Diamond 6 being named after Earl Minchin. Rebecca Foord, an EMS board member, praised the impact of these individuals on female sports in the community.
"Both of them were huge supporters of softball. Don had a hand in putting together a lot of these diamonds he helped build by hand. Earl was the same way. They were both coaches. They helped umpire. They did absolutely everything they could to help out in our community and to help promote girls' sports," said Foord.
The ceremonial first pitch was thrown by Minchin's daughter Amanda, with Schroder's daughter, Jacinda, catching.
Foord also commended Waloshin's role in mentoring her, as well as other coaches, and the hours of work that have gone and continue to go into facility upgrades.
Waloshin looks forward to continuing improvements at the diamonds, with hopes of adding lights and better drainage. “There’s a lot of great volunteers and knowledgeable coaches that can support the development of all the kids,” he said. As the community continues to rally behind the sport, the newly renamed Jody Waloshin Softball Diamonds are set to become a cornerstone for young athletes' growth and success.