Bonivital Softball Tournament a huge success!

Bonivital Softball Association (BVSA) held its first annual tournament June 2-4 and the event was a great success.

More than 30 teams from Winnipeg and southern Manitoba played a total of more than 70 games. Hundreds of young athletes in the U11, U13, U15 and U17 age groups and their families attended several venues. In addition to the action on the field, it was a community event including a barbecue, food trucks, an indoor batting cage and other events, plus 50/50 and other prize draws.

Oak Bluff Storm won the U11 tournament, Winkler ended in first place in the U13s,  and Northeast Storm Orange came out on top in the U15 division. Bonivital Flash Blue and Northwest Grey were the semi-final winners in U17, they are playing their final game at a later date.

The tournament enjoyed great community support, with several local businesses and community groups providing funding, goods or services. Winnipeg city councillors Brian Mayes (St. Vital), Markus Chambers (St. Norbert-Seine River) and Matt Allard (St. Boniface) donated funds to support the event. Mayes and Chambers threw opening pitches at two of the game venues. Riel MLA Rochelle Squires also attended and added support.

The tournament faced a few curve balls from mother nature, but the event's volunteer staff showed great agility in moving venues and changing schedules where necessary due to inclement weather. Venues included Riel Park, Charing Cross Park and Victor Wyatt School in St. Vital, and Optimist Park in Ile des Chenes. 

"I am proud of all our board members, coaches, volunteers , players and families who put in a great effort to make this event a big success," says Bonivital Softball Association President Lucy Chura. "Our young athletes had a lot of fun and made some great memories. And we are very grateful to all our sponsors."

Bonivital Softball Association (BVSA) looks forward to presenting the tournament again in 2024.