The lower mainland isn’t the only place that plays or produces quality ball players and when you look around the success is or should be given to those who make it happen.
I am talking about the one’s behind the scenes such as the Coaches, the Managers, the waterboy’s and even the parents who spend timeless hours helping line the diamonds through not only BC, but Canada as well.
Ball in Kelowna is growing with the area hitting a “home run’ both on and off the diamond and with the local club being the Falcons it’s interesting to note that this is their 17th summer of ball in Kelowna.
At first he was undecided, but Bryan Donohue made it official and announced that he will return for his second summer as the Falcons bench boss following the 25-29 club record last season.
He (Donohue) is also the manager for Mount Hood Community College in Oregon mentioned about his return stating “I began conversations with GM Mark Nonis before the season was even in its last weeks about coming back and seeing this team be successful at the championship level is really important to me.”
The level of ball the club provides the area helps the team look at managing to put together another championship season of ball.
The community itself is focused on the Families and given the tourism in the area in the summer months it’s only certain they will attract a larger audience to all games.
After being in the league a year, it’s very apparent how consistent play can rack up a lot of wins and keep you toward the top of the standings.
We knocked on the door all year to break through from being a .500 team but lacked the consistency on the mound and at the plate to push forward.
We also need to work more on things throughout the week to find ways to put more pressure on teams from the offensive end.
The biggest thing that stands out to me for this team is the proven depth that we have at a lot of spots.
We are much older as a whole than last year and have much more talent that has already produced at a higher level than last year.
Unfortunately, when you grab a high projected freshman or someone that didn’t play much during the spring, that guy may not be ready to produce right away.
Our first game counts, so I want guys that already have the innings and at bats to be ready to go right away.
He (Bryan) wants his team to be one that constantly puts pressure on the opposition both on and off the field, while causing problems for opposing defenses and pitchers when they can.
The Falcon’s season opener (home) takes place June 2nd when they welcome in the newest franchise to the West Coast League; the Port Angeles Lefties, formally known as the Kitsap Bluejackets.
Season tickets and affordable family fun are available now by calling the Falcons headquarters at 250-763-4100.
