After 60 years of hosting countless memorable moments, Unity’s iconic Cardinals baseball diamond is undergoing a complete transformation. The summer of 2024 will mark the final season for the diamond in its current state, as disrepair and costly patchwork repairs have made it increasingly difficult to maintain. However, plans to revitalize the diamond, long discussed but slow to materialize, have now been fast-tracked thanks to an exciting opportunity.
North West Terminal has donated farmland, giving the long-awaited Cardinals Diamond Revitalization Project the green light. In response, the Cardinals Diamond Revitalization Project committee was quickly formed, with current Cardinal Cory Wildeman stepping in as president. Unity Minor Ball president Regan L’Heureux serves as secretary, while Dan Feser takes on the role of vice president, and Ward Snell handles finances as treasurer. Other members include Nathan Kuhn, a farm advisor; Lisa Feser from the Town of Unity; and Brad Sloboda, who will act as the liaison for youth baseball programs.
Determined to do things right, the committee has turned what began as a renovation plan into a complete rebuild. The new facility will honour Unity’s rich baseball history while providing a modern venue capable of hosting major national events. "We’re building a field of dreams," said Wildeman. "This diamond will reflect our town's incredible past and brilliant future, giving Unity a facility that meets our growing needs."
Three Phases of Transformation
The revitalization will be broken into three phases over three years, with the donated land secured for the duration of the project.
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Phase One: Construction of the playing field will begin immediately following the final out of the Senior Provincials in 2024. The old diamond will be removed, and the new field, reoriented for a better playing and fan experience, will take shape. This phase includes new fencing, featuring a “right-field monster,” fresh grass for the infield and outfield, new dugouts, and a sprinkler system. The goal is to have the field ready for play by the 2025 season.
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Phase Two: Will focus on the construction of new bleachers, washrooms, and a shelter for spectators.
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Phase Three: Stadium lighting will be installed to allow for night games and larger events.
Bar Engineering has been brought on board to oversee the construction and ensure the project’s success.
Phase One is nearing completion after some minor weather delays
Community Support and Future Opportunities
The response from the community, local sponsors, and rural municipalities has been overwhelming, with donations and sponsorships pouring in. The committee is encouraged by the support and excited about the opportunities the new facility will bring.
Once completed, the upgraded diamond will make Unity eligible to host large-scale events such as Western and Canadian championships and college summer league games—opportunities the town had to decline in the past due to inadequate facilities. The goal is to have the new diamond fully operational and capable of hosting such events by the summer of 2027.
For Unity, a town with a strong baseball tradition this revitalized diamond will be a source of pride and a beacon for future generations of players and fans alike.
To see the progress visit Cardinal Diamond Revitalization Project on Facebook