The stands were packed at Diamond 5 for St. Paul Minor Ball's first Future All-Star Game last Thursday.
The Future All-Star Game was held as a wind up for the season, and featured young players from the Rookie and Mite divisions in a showdown of boys versus girls.
“I think it was pretty successful, we had a lot of people show up," said St. Paul Minor Ball President Rick Austin. “The kids played well, I was worried about the boys playing the girls but it actually worked out pretty good, they were pretty equally matched."
Austin added that the Future All-Star Game was a very positive end to a season that was heavily affected by the weather.
“Overall it was a very tough season because of weather. We had a late start and a lot of rainy weather," he said. “The final tournaments came and went and we didn't play a lot of ball, but we got through it and I think the kids had fun."
Players, parents and spectators were treated to a barbecue and giveaways throughout the game, which saw a number of big hits from the littlest players around.
The highlight of the game came in the bottom of the second inning when the girls team hit back to back home runs to give the boys a run for their money.
“Back to back jacks, you bet," said Austin. “That was awesome."
Player of the game awards went to Kiyah Warholik and Eric Hurtubise.
At the end of the game, every player met long-time minor ball volunteer Shauna Gates at the mound, and presented her with a blue or red rose – the team colours of the St. Paul Storm - as a thank you for her service to the organization.
“Shauna's one of those ladies that you'll talk to her about four different items you'd like emailed out, and before you get home from the ball diamond they're all sent out," Austin said. “She's great with communications, she runs our meetings, she does everything."
Gates said she was surprised to receive the recognition, and loved the team themed roses.
“I was blown away, I was not expecting that. It was very sweet, and it was fun having them here." she said, adding that the Future All-Star Game was a great change from wind ups in previous years, and will likely become a trend. “The kids liked it, and I think it will be fun. The other kids will hear about it, and then they'll want to come, too."
Austin added that this year the Midget boys, Bantam boys and Peewee girls advanced to provincials, and he hopes to help those numbers increase in the coming years.
“My goal is to have every level send a team to provincials and play into July," he said, adding that the goal will require greater coaching support. “I like having three or four coaches. I like having a bullpen coach, two base coaches and one on the bench."
