2024 Coed Ceremonial First Pitch
The St. Thomas Coed Slo-Pitch League’s 2024 season began on May 5th with a full slate of 53 games and all 68 clubs in action. The League grew significantly from its 2023 version, expanding from 6 to 8 divisions while adding 12 more teams. Games will be played on Sundays at the Doug Tarry Sports Complex’s 5 diamonds, along with Gorman-Rupp, Talbotville’s Optimist Sports Park, and Burwell Park now renamed Goddeeris Luyks Park.
Building on the first iteration held in 2023, the season’s Ceremonial first pitch also expanded this year. The League welcomed back City Mayor Joe Preston and City Councillor Jim Hebert. Both Joe and Jim are strong supporters of St. Thomas Slo-Pitch and continue to lobby on behalf of the Association’s over 2000 members across the Mens, Womens, and Coed Leagues. With Jim and Joe involved, the league and facilities have benefited tremendously.
Joining Joe and Jim on the mound this season was long-time London Major’s star Cleveland Brownlee. Starting in 2010, Cleveland has played 563 games for London (season and playoffs) while belting 135 home runs, 516 RBIs, with a lifetime batting average of .292. The Majors began their season on May 12 with a 7-5 win over Toronto.
Also returning for another season, Markus Hawco and the Ice Box will be serving tasty treats all year long at the booth and they have expanded to operate the Beer Garden both on the weekends and throughout the week.
St. Thomas Coed Vice President Carrie Daugharty and Community Liaison Freddy Sinclair spearheaded the event, with the longest-serving member Melanie Power and newest Executive member Mike Walt helping to catch the first pitches.
After a long winter, it is official! Play ball!
