Holdfast, Saskatchewan was chosen as one of 14 communities to receive funding for baseball diamond upgrades from the Toronto Blue Jays’ Jays Cares Foundation in 2024. The village currently has two fully furbished diamonds, with construction underway for a third. The donation from the Blue Jays will assist Holdfast Baseball in putting tin on the dugouts and a safety railing cap on the fence. Holdfast Baseball President Lora Bast expressed her excitement for the upgrades and the resurgence of baseball in the community, with teams from surrounding areas now utilizing the fields.
The recognition from the Blue Jays is particularly exciting for Holdfast, as Bast stated that it can be a struggle for small communities to secure funding and support for projects like these. The community has rallied together to bring baseball back to Holdfast, with organizations like Richardson Pioneer in Imperial, Saskatchewan and the Community Gardener Trust Fund (formerly known as Bigfoot Construction) contributing to the construction of the new diamond in 2023. The newly renovated field will be named Bigfoot Diamond, symbolizing the collaboration and efforts of various local groups in reviving baseball in Holdfast.
The resurgence of baseball in Holdfast has brought together families and community members who share a love for the sport. Bast recalled how the ball diamonds were always full when she was a child, and after years of no baseball in the village, the sport has started to flourish once again. The fields now see teams from nearby areas like Dilke, Craik, and Imperial utilizing the space, enhancing the sense of community and camaraderie in Holdfast. The upgrades to the diamonds will not only improve the playing experience for current players but also inspire future generations to engage in baseball.
The partnership between the Toronto Blue Jays’ Jays Cares Foundation and Holdfast showcases the positive impact that sports can have on small communities. The funding for baseball diamond upgrades will not only benefit current players but also foster a sense of pride and unity among Holdfast residents. The recognition from a major sports organization like the Blue Jays is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the community in revitalizing the local baseball scene. By investing in infrastructure and facilities, Holdfast is creating a lasting legacy for youth and families to enjoy for years to come.
The donation from the Blue Jays represents a significant milestone for Holdfast Baseball and the community as a whole. It serves as a reminder of the importance of sports in bringing people together and strengthening community bonds. The upgrades to the diamonds will provide a safer and more enjoyable playing experience for all, ensuring that baseball remains a cherished pastime in Holdfast for generations. Through collaboration with organizations and community members, Holdfast has demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming challenges and revitalizing the local baseball culture. As a result, the village is poised to continue thriving as a hub for sports and community engagement.
