Sunnyside Park in South Surrey was busy with softball players over the weekend (May 4-5), with the South Surrey White Rock Minor Softball Association holding its annual May Madness event.
Offering young U11 players their inaugural taste of competitive tournament play, May Madness holds a special place in the SSWRMSA, as an invaluable experience that fosters growth, learning and a deeper passion for the sport, noted SSWRMSA president Thomas Bell in an email.
Complete with round-robin matches, playoffs, championship games officiated by real umpires, and the thrill of earning MVP awards and medals, the May Madness tournament allows players, coaches, and budding umpires plenty of opportunities as they set their sights on future tournaments such as the U11C District Jamboree and the Softball BC Regional Championship.
This year’s May Madness tournament showcased an impressive lineup of teams, including the Blueberry Muffin, Purple Cobras, Flames, Sour Snipers, Orange Crushers, The Gators, and a guest appearance by the Fleetwood Crushers.
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Despite Sunday’s less-favourable weather conditions, the teams exhibited remarkable determination, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament.
“It was a joy to witness the exceptional plays, hits and spirited defense, and the resounding cheers echoing from both players and fans alike,” Bell said.
A highlight was the championship game, featuring the Blueberry Muffins, led by coach Kyle Stevens and The Gators, under the guidance of coach Greg Gallaher.
The intense match reflected the teams’ resilience and skill, with the Blueberry Muffins emerging victorious after a stellar performance in the playoffs.
The bronze medal game showcased the promising talent of first-year U11C team, the Sour Snipers, coached by Courtney Parker and Kylie Brine, alongside the Purple Cobras, under the guidance of veteran coach Yvette Callewaert.
Bell said both teams demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship and competitiveness throughout the tournament.
May Madness winners:
• First place: Blueberry Muffins
• Second place: The Gators
• Third place: Sour Snipers
• fourth place: Purple Cobras
“The Blueberry Muffins overcame having to play an extra (fourth) game on Saturday,” Stevens said.
“The players were tired on Sunday, but dug deep and rallied their team spirit, played hard, and won the final three games to bring home the gold. Another year with a team full of heart!”