Newmarket Baseball Hits A Home Run!

In January, the Association announced the construction of a new permanent batting cage facility thanks to a $66,400 grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation.  Newmarket-Aurora MPP Frank Klees and Rick Beatty, a volunteer from the Foundation presented Tim Brown, president of the Association, with a plaque to celebrate the news.  Mayor Tony Van Bynen and Ian MacDougall, Assistant Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture also offered their congratulations.

“I know that the funds will be put to good use on behalf of the children in our community,” said Klees, MPP for Newmarket-Aurora.  “Every skill the coaches gain will greatly enhance the game for the players,” added Mr. Klees.  

For over 54 years the Newmarket Baseball Association has provided a quality baseball program for players four to 21 years of age.  The Association is forecasting enrollment of over 850 players for the 2008 season.  Registration for the 2008 season is now open.

The one-year grant provides funds to build a new permanent batting cage at the Newmarket Fairgrounds for the use of the Newmarket Baseball Association players.  In addition, money from the grant will be invested in training clinics for coaches and umpires, upgrades to the website and the purchase of new equipment. 

“This is great news for the Association and the community,” said Newmarket Baseball President Tim Brown.  “The funds allocated for the batting cage, teaching and umpiring are very much appreciated and align perfectly with our commitment to the development of players, coaches and umpires at all ages and levels.”

The Ontario Trillium Foundation is an agency of the Government of Ontario.  The Foundation allocates grants to eligible charitable and not-for-profit organizations in the arts and culture, sports and recreation, environment, and human and social services and sectors.