When Sinead Convery was just starting out in softball, opportunities to learn from high-level players were not easy to come by. That’s part of what makes the upcoming Central Energy youth clinic so exciting, not only for the kids attending, but also for the athletes leading it.
“We never got this chance, which is why it's such a cool opportunity,” said Convery, who now plays catcher for the U15 Central Energy team.
On July 15th, Convery and her teammates will swap their competitive edge for coaching caps as they welcome young players from T-ball to U11 for a free softball clinic at the Winkler ball diamonds. “We're just hosting a fun day where kids can come out and run bases and throw balls around and hit some balls,” she said. “We're going to teach them what we learned as kids.”
Hot dogs, Lightning, and fundraising
Alongside the clinic, there’ll be music, giveaways, and $5 hot dog combos. “Yes, hot dogs sponsored by Co-op,” added pitcher Shyanne Goertzen.
Then, as the sun goes down, the energy ramps back up. The U15 Central Energy team will face off against Winnipeg Lightning under the lights — a rare treat in the local ball scene. “It's a fun team to play. They have really strong hitting,” she said. “Which is a good opportunity for our fielding to get better.”
The clinic is free to attend, but is also part of a broader effort to raise funds for Central Energy’s next big challenge: co-hosting the Canadian U15 Fast Pitch Championship in Winkler and Morden this August.
“We will be selling elimination draw tickets,” explained team organizer Sarah Convery. “The draw will take place at the tournament, and you can win up to $3000.”
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Additional funds will support not only tournament costs like umpire accommodations and field prep, but also long-term investment in local softball. “Any extra funds that we raise will go right back into Central Energy as a whole,” said Convery. “We also have a AA league, which is Central Charge. So, just kind of growing our league and getting more kids interested.”
Whether your child is new to the game or swinging for the fences, the girls agree that this experience will be a great one and well worth the drive.