A group of Inuvik parents are re-starting the minor softball league after being on hiatus for a few years.
Samantha McKay/NNSL photo
"We thought we would stop complaining and start organizing," said Janelle Glemser, president of the new Inuvik Minor Softball League. "It just takes a couple people to take the initiative and start something like this."
Glemser said she and her husband enjoy playing softball and their four kids were asking why there aren't any softball tournaments for kids, so they formed a group of parent volunteers to organize the league.
She said participation is completely free for all youth, they just need to bring running shoes and a water bottle.
"We're not exactly sure who yet, but we have a couple of businesses in mind who are interested in sponsorship. There will be equipment available for the kids to use."
There will be four age categories in the league – five to seven, eight to 10, 11 to 13, and 14 to 16.
"The younger groups will be more of skillset building, learn-to-play kind of program, while the older teams will be play and game based," said Glemser.
Games will take place Monday and Wednesday evenings starting June 4, and will run until sometime in the late summer.
She said parents can register their children by email anytime or in person at the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex from 2 to 5 p.m. on May 26. She said registration forms will be accepted up until the first pitch, but the earlier the better.
She said she hopes to hold a few minor softball tournaments throughout the summer in addition to the regular games.
Glemser said the league is looking for parent volunteers to help out with organizing the league, and hopes that the games will be a weeknight event for both kids and their parents to participate in together.
"It's about the kids, it's about healthy living, being active, good sportsmanship," she said.
The league will communicate and update the public about games and tournaments primarily through the Inuvik Events Facebook page for now.