Community slo-pitch tournament hits home run

Beerview Mirrors celebrates their win at the Summer Smash Coed Slo-Pitch Tournament. From left are (front) Kyle Postma, Brant Paulmert, Brie Kett, Danielle Cherewka, and back row, Christian Bevan, Cody long, Jeremy Hill, Delaney Long, Christopher Childerhose, Ling Wong, Martina McCallum, and Curtis Cherewka. 

Alex Hunt

Advocate Correspondent

The Summer Smash Coed Slo-Pitch Tournament took full swing last weekend at Wind-Del Community Park, Windham Centre.

Seven teams hit the diamond, raising money for little league gear, splash pads and more.

Beerview Mirror, with team members from Delhi, Simcoe and Teeterville, was the top team in the day-long tournament, with 2 Out Dodgers placing second and Last Minute third. 

Lacey Warren of Norfolk County and head organizer for the tournament said that funds generated from the tournament will be used to improve the park and purchase equipment for other leagues. 

“Basically, what made me want to do this was from attending other tournaments that I didn’t really enjoy because they were disorganized,” said Warren. “Then we realized that this park is the perfect spot, there were so many diamonds that weren’t being used.” 

Warren said that by running the event she wants to promote enjoyment. 

There are many people who are competitive and want to win but the main objective is for everyone to come out and have fun, she said. And so far, she hasn’t heard any complaints. 

“Any funds raised here are just going back to the park. We would like a pitching screen when everybody comes out to do batting practice,” said Warren.

Minor T-ball needs some new bats, and they also want to do a family turkey dinner draw for Thanksgiving. 

Warren said some of last year’s Summer Smash tournament funds will go toward a splash pad, and with help from the county, it is expected to become a reality next year. Warren hopes the tournament attracts more people in the future and looks forward to seeing the park getting used by the community. More people mean more opportunity, she said.

With every pitch and cheer from the sidelines, the park feels a little more alive. For Lacey Warren, it’s just the beginning of what this field can become.