It’s a clear cut goal for Maryjo Tait and her association.
Ensure Dutton is the hub for baseball in West Elgin.
However the aging diamonds in Sons of Scotland Park are in dire need of rejuvenation. And so the Dunwich Dutton Softball Association and the municipality have partnered to fundraise for upgrades, explains Tait.
The Dutton area has a rich and colourful baseball history points out Tait.
And the municipality wants to build on that heritage moving forward. The Association plays host to the only remaining program in West Elgin, offering a full suite of softball, fastball and hardball.
Tait explains the facilities currently available.
There is only one option when it comes to a baseball program in the Dutton area.
Upgrade two diamonds in Sons of Scotland Park or baseball registrations will have to be downsized, cautions Tait.
She explains the work needed before the start of next season.
Tait says the association has budgetted $130,000 for Phase 1 of the upgrades.
Tait stresses they are looking at donations of all kinds, whether financial or in-kind contributions.
She emphasizes the diamonds are in desperate need of some upgrades.
The backstops have been patched together with netting and fence over the years and the dugouts need to be updated to accommodate the growing ball program in Dutton.
The dugouts need new benches, they need to be made wider and longer to fit a full team and need a roof to offer a break from the hot sun during games.
For more information, or to make a donation, contact Dunwich Dutton Softball at ddsoftballa@gmail.com
