After losing their first matchup 13-5, the Oxford Wildcats came back to beat the LWF Mystic 11-10 and 13-9, in the title games of the U-12 girls’ provincial championships, held in Antigonish Aug. 16 to 18.
The host North Nova Highlanders lost all four of their games but played extremely well, especially given the fact the majority of the team had never played organized baseball prior to a few weeks previous.
The players really came together and played as a team, showing improvement in every game; only succumbing to the mercy rule in their first game against the eventual champions from Oxford. Many opposing coaches commented on the local team’s improvement during the tournament as well as their great attitude and spirit.
The inaugural U-12 girls’ provincial tournament was a fantastic success, with many visiting coaches and parents commenting that Antigonish set the bar extremely high for what everyone hopes will be many more U-12 girls’ provincial to come.
A New Waterford coach, who has been at many provincial tournaments, even commented that it was the best tournament he has ever been at.
The tournament was a great opportunity for young female athletes to play on all-girls teams in a fun yet competitive, environment. The girls were able to meet new friends, develop new skills, play great baseball and have a positive team sport experience.
All involved hope this positive experience will encourage them to stay involved in sport at an age when many girls drop out of sports.
The tournament and the North Nova Highlander team were supported by SportFund NS, the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, Baseball NS, Antigonish Baseball Association, 98.9 XFM, and Sobeys.