After a successful return last year, the Children’s Camps International (CCI) Ball Tournament is gearing up once again — and organizers are looking to expand. Steve Wiebe, who helps coordinate the event, says they’re hoping to double the number of teams that participated in 2024.
“Last year actually went pretty well, all things considered,” said Wiebe. “We had six teams participating. Obviously we would like a few more teams to join, so this year probably be looking more like at 12 to 16 teams.”
A tournament for all skill levels
Organizers are planning to divide teams based on skill if registration numbers support it.
“If we get to like a dozen teams or whatever... we can definitely entertain that thought of having A and a B division,” said Wiebe. “That pretty much opens the playing field up to everybody.”
The tournament is co-ed, and open to players 16 and up. “This is obviously a play at your own risk tournament,” Wiebe explained. “If you're in that 16–17-year-old range and would like to play, then you just need your parents' consent.”
The tournament uses slow pitch format.
"The Base Invaders", "Bat to the Bone", or "Glove at First Sight" -- Creative team names welcome
Wiebe also encouraged players to have fun with team identity.
“You can come up with just about any name that’s family friendly,” he said. “Last year was not too crazy… but when you have 16 different teams at a tournament, you’ll see a little bit of everything.”
Registration is now open, and team captains are asked to contact Wiebe directly.
“Whoever wants to captain the team… I’d actually like if they could reach out to me via my phone number,” he said. “My cell number is 204-304-0425.”
Tournament dates and fundraising goal
This year’s CCI Ball Tournament is set for July 18–20 in Winkler. Spectators are encouraged to attend, and donations are welcome throughout the weekend.
“We try welcoming as many fans as we can because we can even have donations being made while the event is going on,” said Wiebe. “You can always either donate online [or] come see us at the ball diamonds.”
Teams are asked to pay a $300 entry fee, and the event aims to raise $60,000 in support of Children's Camps International. (HOME | CCI Ball Tournament)
“That is the goal that we’ve set and we’ll see where that takes us in the end,” Wiebe noted.
Why it matters
Wiebe’s connection to CCI goes back over a decade.
“I think it would have been 2014. That’s the first time I played at the tournament,” he said. “Combining your love for the game and also knowing that there’s a bigger mission behind this — that kids get to go to camp — that just makes this tournament a total win.”
According to Wiebe, the impact of camp is life-changing for many.
“Roughly 75% of those kids give their life to Jesus while at camp,” he said. “That’s what we’re about.”
Food, fellowship, and community
In addition to the ball games, Sixteen13 Ministries will be back with their popular food trailer.
“They serve up some delicious food,” said Wiebe. “Last year they had hot dogs, burgers and fries, and I think they had some shish kebabs and rice.”
Wiebe, who typically plays in the outfield, says he’s just excited to chase down another great weekend for a great cause.
“I don’t mind chasing that ball down or whatever,” he laughed.