A raincloud situated right over Labatt Park could not dampen the high spirits of the young baseball players who gathered on a July day to honour Frank Colman, one of the founders of Eager Beaver Baseball Association (EBBA). Colman Day is a time-honoured tradition of youth baseball games played by all-stars from the league (as chosen by their peers).
All players, from T-Ball to Midget, were scheduled to showcase their skills on the major-league sized field at Labatt Park. The T-Ball division played through a light rain, then played in the stands during a half-hour rain delay, before resuming their game in the outfield. The Rookie division was able to start on the diamond, before more rain and another delay forced them to complete their game in the outfield (with the added bonus of their own coaches pitching to them).
More rain closed the field, and the Mosquito teams packed up and headed to Mornington Park for their game. PeeWee players were diverted to Mornington Park as well. Both divisions were able to get their games in without the music and atmosphere of Labatt Park, but with all the enthusiasm. Unfortunately, the Bantam and Midget games had to be cancelled, but not without promises to meet up again next year (and requests for drier weather).
EBBA is London’s longest running youth sports league and is fully run by volunteers. To get involved with the 2019 season and to be a part of special events, such as Colman Day, please circle October 1 on your calendar for the annual meeting and go to ebba.ca for more information.
Submitted by Eager Beaver Baseball Association
