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Church softball league gets underway

A group of players cheers and pats each other on the back
Players from the Christ Church/St. Bede team celebrate after winning the tournament last year.
By 
 on May 1, 2019
Photography: 
Michael Hudson

When it comes to baseball in Toronto, the Blue Jays get all the attention. But a church league has been running in Scarborough for nearly 60 years, and new teams are welcome.

The SAYM (Scarborough Anglican Youth Movement) softball league begins its 58th season on May 14. Eight teams made up of players from local churches will play 14 games over the summer, culminating in a tournament on Sept. 7.

“It’s for people who just want to play and have fun,” says Martin Walkes, co-organizer of the league and a parishioner of St. Bede, Toronto.

Games are held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. at baseball diamonds in Scarborough. The registration fee for each team for the season is $400, and teams need to supply their own bats and gloves. Adults and youth over the age of 13 can join.

“It doesn’t matter what skill level you have,” says Mr. Walkes. “It’s just about getting together to play some friendly games.”

Mr. Walkes has been playing in the league for 32 years. He started when he as a 17-year-old in St. Bede’s youth group. “It’s enjoyable playing with other Christians,” he says. “We all have the same beliefs and it’s all about having fun.”

Most of the players are lay people and clergy are welcome, too. A prayer is said before the beginning of every game.

Teams from four Anglican churches will be taking part this year, in addition to two Baptist churches and a Methodist church. There will also be a team made up of people from various other churches.

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