It was a nail-biter of a gold-medal win.
The South Surrey White Rock Minor Softball Association debuted its first-ever team in the Lower Mainland U11 Rep Softball League, the Thunder 2013 U11 Rep team, who won the coveted first-place gold medal in their first tournament of the season.
Hosted by the North Shore Girls Fastpitch Association, the weekend tournament (April 20-21) featured teams from various regions, including the North Shore Stars, Langley Wild (McRae), Ridge Meadows Pride 14, TriCity Titans 13, TriCity Titans 13 (Anzinger), TriCity Titans 14, South Surrey White Rock Thunder 13, Coquitlam Chaos, Abbotsford Outlaws 14, Ridge Meadows Pride 13, and Chilliwack Impact, noted SSWRMSA president Thomas Bell in an email.
The Stefan Durston-coached U11 Rep team “made an impressive entrance by securing victory at their inaugural tournament,” Bell said. “Demonstrating exceptional talent and unwavering determination, the Thunder players distinguished themselves among 12 formidable competitors, earning the coveted gold medal and affirming their position as strong contenders in the league.”
Bell said the championship game, which “unfolded in a nail-biting fashion,” saw the Thunder pitted against the formidable Cloverdale Fury 13.
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“In a display of grit and skill, the Thunder team outshone their opponents, securing a thrilling victory and cementing their place at the top of the tournament standings,” he said in his email.
“Thunder’s triumph is a testament to their dedication, hard work, and the guidance of their coaches. The team’s stellar performance has not only brought home the gold medal but has also set the stage for an exciting and promising season ahead.”
Durston praised the dedication and hard work of the players, highlighting their phenomenal pitching, precise base running, and impressive hitting that led to four hard-hit home runs in the championship game.
Bell congratulated the entire SSWRMSA community and the Thunder players for their outstanding achievement.
“Their victory serves as inspiration for all our association’s young athletes, showcasing the power of teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship,” he said.
Visit sswrmsa.ca for more information about softball on the Semiahmoo Peninsula.