Kindersley hosts Prairie Showdown

By Jordan Parker

This week will see a fantastic event showcasing the talents of the Edmonton Prospects and the Moose Jaw Miller Express right here in Kindersley.

On June 16 and 17, 2022, the incredible Western Canadian Baseball League game will see a new host of talent.

“The Kindersley games are going to be amazing. They’re due to a unique situation in the WCBL right now,” said Managing Partner Pat Cassidy.

“Edmonton is a team without a home right now, as we couldn’t secure our long-term lease in Edmonton. We are building a new turf in Spruce Grove, Alta.”

They have some home games in Sherwood Park but have found themselves on the road playing other games this season.

“This gives us a chance to get around, showcase the team and the league, and build the brand. We’ll be able to connect with kids and families,” he said. “These locations sometimes don’t get as much exposure.”

“We decided to seek out locations that could facilitate use and expand to more than the franchise centres we already have.”

For Cassidy, the road games are all about connecting to the community around the team.

“This is all about families and people coming out. We have kids camps on Thursday and Friday, and then if you bring your glove to the park for games, you get $5 off entry,” he said.

“We want people to get on the field after the game and just have some experiences together.”

After two years of trials and tribulations with COVID-19, Cassidy is ready to get people in the spirit.

“Connection is important now, more than ever. Baseball is great, and it’s a social sport. You come to the game, and it’s relaxed, and you can visit with people,” he said.

“There is obviously some drama, but you do get to talk and have a good time. It’s an important time in our history to get out and do these things.”

The Prospects team is showing strength so far this season, and Cassidy has been impressed so far.

“They’re a really competitive group. The desire to win takes over when they get on the field. It doesn’t matter what crowd they’re in front of. They want to showcase their talents,” he said.

“These guys train hard and have played most of their lives. This is an opportunity for new things and larger crowds.”

He said one thing has made the players sit up and take notice of the experiences they’re having.

“They’re seeing the adoration of kids who want autographs. There’s this embryonic phase, and the players are taken aback by the kids and how excited they are. They haven’t seen that before.”

They’re excited to head to Kindersley and see a formidable opponent in the Moose Jaw Miller Express.

“We’re happy, and we’ve been in communication with the community for months. We know Kindersley has a good ball history, can host large events, and has a nice facility,” he said.

“The Express are a team we have to be prepared for. They’re currently first in the Eastern Division right now. They’re going to be tough, and the other Alberta teams have told us to watch out.”

At the end of the day, Cassidy just wants everyone to have a good time.

“We really just want people to buy tickets and come out. This is designed to be a fun event and create interaction between players, kids and families.”

To purchase tickets, visit https://tickets.prospectsbaseballclub.com/.

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