The funds were invested in the new building, sewer system renewal, storage spaces, and canteen area.  (Submitted photo/Kelly Baillargeon)

By Kenneth Cheung

New chapter

Edam Minor Ball hit a home run with new building

Aug 20, 2024 | 4:46 PM

Build it and they will come. That’s the hope of the Edam Minor Ball Association.

The community-run organization made up of volunteers from in and around Edam held a successful fundraiser that ended with the construction of a new multi-purpose facility they hope will attract more tournaments to the area.

According to Kelly Baillargeon, an Edam Minor Ball board member, the popularity of the sport is growing in the area. Last year, 114 players were registered. The organization had done many upgrades to the baseball fields at Paul McCaffrey Ball Park including new shale and dugout shelters, but other areas of the facility were lacking.

“Although our playing fields are among the best in the area, it becomes quite difficult to host any tournaments or events at Paul McCaffrey Ball Park because we lack functional washrooms and canteen area to serve/prepare food for the public,” Edam Minor Ball wrote in a sponsorship letter to community members.

The Edam Minor Ball team. (Photo/ Edam Minor Ball Facebook page)

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They launched a fundraising campaign for a $170,000 project that would allow them to build a new multipurpose structure that would address all of the issues and add storage space.

In just six months, the goal was not only reached, but was significantly surpassed. A total of $250,000 was contributed by more than 100 donors. Major supporters like Novlan Brother, Richardson Pioneer, Edam Credit Union, Crude Master Transport and the R.M. of Turtle River each donated $20,000.

Baillargeon said additional funds raised allowed the group to enhance the new facility even more by adding extra concrete, higher ceilings and an extra bathroom. Use for the remaining money will be determined in the future.

Construction on the new facility was completed within four months and Edam Minor Ball believes the upgrades make their ballpark among the best baseball facilities in rural Saskatchewan which they called a huge asset to young and active families in the community.

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com