Sports

Richmond City Baseball sowing the seeds

By Don Fennell

Published 10:36 PDT, Wed March 27, 2019

Every successful venture starts with a solid foundation, one built on basics.

It’s an approach Richmond City Baseball has adopted, following a model that has long been a staple in a game known for its traditions.

But Richmond City Baseball has also been open to thinking outside the box exploring opportunities that further both player development and fun.

“RCBA continues to focus on our grassroots programming model, ever developing and modifying to ensure maximum youth participation and development,” explains Richmond City Baseball president John Braaten.

The association, which has an exciting schedule planned for the 2019 campaign (the College Prep program kicked things off by holding ‘spring training’ in Mazatlan), has reconstructed its practice model. Instead of individual coach and team practices, David van Ostrand is overseeing multiple team practices.

“We also have a new mentoring volunteering program to aid with this, featuring players from our College Prep, 18U AAA and 15U AAA players working in conjunction with our 11U and under division practices and skills sessions as a form of giving back while earning volunteer hours needed in school,” says Braaten.

Optimism is high for the College Prep team, under the guidance of longtime manager Raul Verde Rios, to enjoy another successful season. This will be Verde Rios’ last year leading the program, which began with a five-game exhibition and many cultural experiences in Mexico.

With the official opening day set for 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6 at the fields adjacent to Palmer Secondary School, about 500 players are set to enjoy the great game of baseball. Mayor Malcolm Brodie will throw out the traditional first pitch, joined by several city councillors.

“We continue (for the third year) to provide free baseball programming in conjunction with Richmond Girls Softball (full Kindergarten to Grade 7 physical education week-long classes) in elementary schools, which promotes our sports—maybe to those who may never have had the opportunity,” he says.

“Kids get many benefits from playing sports such as baseball,” Braaten stresses. “Sports are a fun way for kids to be active. They also help kids grow in other ways, such as:

• learning new skills

• being part of a team

• learning to work with coaches

• learning the value of practice

• enjoying competition

“Our focus since I became president has been on our grassroots,” Braaten says. “We have seen player retention remain high, a result of the many changes RCBA has implemented over the years including six-on-six games for 5U to 9U allowing for more opportunities and reps. More player engagement hopefully continues to build our brand.”

2019 RCBA HIGHLIGHTS

• Opening Day: 11 a.m. Saturday, April 6 at Palmer fields

• College Prep Spring Training: March 21 to 28 at Mazatlan

• BC Baseball 13U Selects Camp: May 10 to 12 at Blundell

• BC Baseball John Main 13U AA 20-Team Tournament: May 23 to 26 at Palmer and Brighouse

(Featuring Taiwan’s Hualien County team and Ottawa’s South Bend Bears)

• College Prep Showcase Game: June 4 vs. Ridge Meadows at Nat Bailey Stadium

• Toronto Blue Jays Honda Super Camp: July 18 and 19 at Latrace Field

• BC Baseball College Prep Final Four provincials: Aug. 2 to 4 at Latrace Field

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