Softball is coming back to the ball diamonds in Prince Albert. (File photo/paNOW Staff)

By Jeff D’Andrea

Play Ball!

Ball coming back to Prince Albert, tournaments and provincials planned

May 27, 2021 | 3:14 PM

As restrictions are starting to ease, ball is coming back to diamonds in Prince Albert and across the province.

That’s music to the ears of softball players, some of which have been stuck in practicing in groups of eight since the beginning of March inside the Alfred Jenkins Field House.

Prince Albert Minor Softball player and coaching development coordinator Kalen Kovitch said each of Prince Albert’s minor teams will play at least one game by June 6. Teams will play their first game as soon as Monday.

“I know being around practices at the ballparks this week, there’s been a new level of excitement between the players and the coaches,” Kovitch said. “All this training in groups of eight wasn’t all in vain because we’re going to get to play games and do what we want to do on the softball diamond this summer. We’re all excited and we’re ready to go.”

Although currently tournaments are not allowed, there are still plans for tournaments this season. Starting on June 20 as part of Step Two of the province’s re-opening plan, tournaments will be allowed.

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Kovitch said there will be a full female softball tournament in the middle of July, and various teams are looking to head down to Moose Jaw for a tournament at the end of June. And like normal years, the provincials will be decided in a tournament format. Tournaments run across the province from July 23 to Aug. 15. Three provincial championships will be held in Prince Albert, the U-12 A Girls North, and the U-12 Open Girls North will be held in Prince Albert on July 23-25, while the U-16 Open Boys will be hosted in P.A. Aug 6-8.

When Step Two is engaged, outdoor gatherings up to 150 are permitted. Kovitch said Prince Albert Minor Softball is getting clarification from the Saskatchewan Health Authority of how that relates specifically to venues like Prime Minister’s Park that have several diamonds, football fields, soccer pitches, and a track—and whether or not the participating teams count towards the 150 limit.

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Jeff.dandrea@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow