Photo: Contributed
After a remarkable season of softball, the U15 Okanagan Elite women’s team finished the year as runner ups of the Western Canadian National Championship in Battleford, Saskatchewan.
Earning their way into the dance of Canada’s best softballers, the Okanagan Elite managed to be crowned champions at provincials in Kelowna last month and then went on to represent Team BC against some of the best teams in Western Canada.
Despite a finals loss on the grandest stage, head coach Leanne Spanza couldn’t be more proud of her team after they gave it their all through hard work, blood, sweat and tears.
“The goal was to make Westerns, the dream was gold but the ride this team gave us was the biggest gift. We had an incredible season going 57-16, placing gold in three tournaments, silver in two tournaments and bronze in one tournament,” said Spanza.
“Winning provincials was a huge accomplishment against a team we have never won against. There have only been three teams from the Okanagan to go to Westerns, and we are the only team to bring home medals in both provincials and Westerns.”
The Westerns championship game turned out to be a nail-biter.
Down by three runs, the Okanagan Elite managed to scratch and claw their way back into the game before being defeated in extra innings with a walk off home run.
“Our team played so strong throughout the Westerns tournament and were proud to represent British Columbia,” said coach Spanza.
“The (great) season was a result of our team belief, which is Stronger Together. We wanted to keep this group together because we believed in them so much.”
After a memorable season that resulted in a silver medal, these 15 year old girls will now move up to U17 for next season, with a focus on college recruitment pathways and showcases.
With an eye already on next season, coach Spanza says tryouts are coming up and that they are always on the lookout for better players.
“We are looking for hardworking, fun loving athletes and families as well as coaches who want to be part of it all. It’s unlike any other program in the valley and will continue with our belief of Stronger Together.”
You can contact the team through their website for more information.
