RETURNING Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) President, Guyanese-born Shiv Persaud has described the past year as one filled with achievements and challenges for the league.
In his report, at the OSCL’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), held at Platinum Lounge & Events, Scarborough, Toronto, on Sunday, Persaud pointed out that “recognising the importance of quality facilities for our league; we have worked tirelessly to improve playing grounds and amenities.

From lobbying for upgraded pitches on grounds for softball cricket to better outfield conditions, these improvements aim to elevate the playing experience for our members and their supporters.”
Persaud disclosed that the OSCL is hopeful of an upgraded Littles Diamond field for the 2024 or 2025 season to include a wider playing area and better outfield. “I have organised and completed a walk through inspection of all OSCL permitted fields with the City supervisors.

During the visit, I identified areas for improvement at all of the grounds. In 2023, we saw some work being done at Littles Soccer and Diamond with rolling, seeding and regular grass cutting.
“Our commitment to community engagement remains unwavering. Through the Guyana Independence Festival games, and partnerships with local organisations like Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC), Canada Cricket Umpires Association (CCUA) and the Scarborough Cricket Association (SCA), we have strengthened our ties with the cricketing community across Ontario, fostering goodwill and camaraderie beyond the cricket field.”

According to Persaud, he’s delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of the league members on and off the field. “From individual accolades to team triumphs, each success contributes to the rich tapestry of Ontario Softball Cricket League’s legacy. This was celebrated and well received at the OSCL End of Season Social with one of the largest turn-out in the longest while for an OSCL end of season event.”

However, Persaud cautioned that “while we celebrate our successes, we must also acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead. From financial sustainability to maintaining competitive balance, we must navigate these obstacles with resilience, innovation, and collective effort. We have been faced with a decreasing number of teams participating in the league which has resulted in a shorter playing schedule and reduced membership fees.”

This also comes with the existing costs for the functioning of the league.
“While we had a successful end of season social, we understand that it was not the ideal location as we would have preferred to have it in a hall setting. Unfortunately, due to the increased costs after the pandemic, it was unaffordable. As a result, we saw the social as a way to build our way back to having end of season celebrations in a hall.”

Persaud extended heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated board member, clubs, members, officials, sponsors, and supporters who have contributed tirelessly to the success of the league. “Your passion and commitment are the driving force behind our achievements, and I thank you for your unwavering support.”
Persaud, who was elected for another two-year term, called on members to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead with optimism and determination. “Together, we will continue to uphold the spirit of softball cricket, fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship, and excellence within our community.

I would continue to create new ideas for more involvement, I have received the support from sponsors for potential long-term partnership and there are possibilities of adding a round-arm division in 2025 from team organisers.”

Apart from Persaud and Patrick Shivrattan who retained their respective posts as President and Registrar/Statistician/Webmaster respectively, there were several changes to the executive committee. Kenny Ramsawak, who previously served as Assistant Secretary/Treasurer is the new Secretary/Public Relations Officer; Ravin Babulall takes over as Treasurer while Bobby Ramlagan is the new Coordinator. Amit Bacchus, whose Vice-president post wasn’t up for election, continues in his post. A new Assistant Secretary/Treasurer is expected to be named at the upcoming Captains Table. (By Frederick Halley)