TORONTO, Canada – President of the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) Albert Ramcharran has declared that despite the continued reduction of teams over the past few seasons, OSCL still continues to play a vital role in the promotion of the grassroots game in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) during the summer.

Ramcharran, who is also a founding-member of the league, made the disclosure in his message marking the 24th anniversary of OSCL which celebrated the occasion at the East Town Banquet Hall, Scarborough here last Saturday night.

According to Ramcharran, he and colleagues “have been working constantly, in the face of severe obstacles, to promote the game of softball to the best of our ability and in a very democratic way.”

He pointed to the introduction of the white ball in all formats of the game in the 2018 season, after it was rejected the previous year and saw that as growth in the game especially at the international level.

Touching on the thorny issue of discipline, Ramcharran said, “While overall the discipline could be considered quite satisfactory during the season, we were again faced with some burning issues – one of which led to the withdrawal of a top team in Division One. It must be noted that the league tried its best to accommodate the team but the efforts failed.”

Rancharran reiterated the need to comply with the parks and permit rules which are clear on the issue of imbibing in full view of nearby residents at some grounds and players/supporters urinating at undesirable places.

The OSCL president also took the opportunity to extend congratulations to the winning and runner-up teams and all the other participants in all formats of the league during the 2019 season.

“To my hard-working executives, a big thank you for your sterling efforts in sometimes trying and demanding situations.  I would like to take this opportunity to wish the executives, sponsors, players and supporters, best wishes for the yuletide season and a prosperous 2020,” Ramcharran concluded.

In her message, Consul General Anyin Choo congratulated OSCL on its 24th anniversary pointing out that “this is indeed a milestone and an accomplishment which has promoted the spirit of sportsmanship, encouraged youth development and united the people of Guyana and the wider Caribbean.

This wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and commitment of its membership, which has striven to unite the people through sports.”

In extending best wishes to OSCL, the consul general said, “I also wish to encourage you to continue to promote unity and goodwill among all the people through your sports initiatives and make a different in the lives of all.”

The OSCL president also took the opportunity to present appreciation plaques to Consul General Choo and Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC) president Azeem Khan which read: “In recognition of your appreciation, commitment and continued support for the furtherance of softball cricket in the Greater Toronto Area.”

Appreciation plaques were also presented to former executive members Patrick Shivrattan, Bobby Ramlagan and Ranjan Persaud “in recognition and appreciation of your outstanding contribution and dedication as an executive member”.

Also recognised were sponsors Paul & Son, Harri Sukhu of DTE Industries, Norman Sue Bakery, Anil Sarwan of Oil Changers, Nirad Lall, Shiv Misir, Hemant Misir, Mohan Singh of I Saw That on TV, Prakash Singh, Starlite, Cabana and District Lounge and Trophy Stall (Guyana and Canada). Their plaques read: “In recognition and appreciation of your commitment to the furtherance of softball cricket as a sponsor.”

The Norman Sue Spirit Award, given annually to worthy individuals who have played big roles, both on and off the field, went to OSCL secretary/Public Relations Officer and Guyana Chronicle freelance reporter Frederick Halley. The plaque read “your selflessness and charity is an inspiration to all”.