The future of Amherstburg baseball has become an election issue

There are many issues facing this town in the upcoming election, and the future of baseball in Amherstburg is one of them. 

Since its’ revival in 2021, the Amherstburg Minor Baseball Association (AMBA) has grown exponentially. 

This year, we have 300 kids playing baseball in Amherstburg, and our projections for next year are between 350-400 (and that is a modest projection). 

Countless volunteers, parents and coaches have given much time and energy to make the AMBA a success. This year alone, we have expanded our T-Ball and Interlock programs and introduced three girls’ fast pitch teams. We have Rep travel teams from U9 to U12, with multiple teams having qualified for the OBA Championships. Amherstburg baseball has come back in a huge way.

However, with this growth and success comes needs. Malden Centre baseball complex has been a gem for many years, and the new playground has contributed to this. The diamonds themselves are excellent, but the facility is in need of upgrades. 

We need a fieldhouse for our equipment, tools and machines, as we have severely outgrown the existing building. 

We need accessible bathrooms as well, as the present bathrooms are much too small. A dedicated parking lot is also a top priority, as presently one does not exist. 

The future of the baseball diamond at Bill Wigle Park is another important aspect of this election. This has become a showcase diamond for our association. 

As we have become more competitive, this diamond has seen many big Cardinal wins. We have received countless compliments from other teams about how beautiful a setting Bill Wigle Park is, and the huge crowds we get for those games are a testament to this. 

We cannot lose Bill Wigle Park. Period.

Amherstburg baseball is alive and very well. Through hard work and dedication - and with a major assist from the town’s parks and rec department - we have become a valuable part of our community. 

Now is the time when we need the Town of Amherstburg to continue to be a willing and enthusiastic partner for us. 

The newly elected council must make the AMBA a priority. 

For our candidates: The AMBA and its’ significant membership will be watching very closely this election season. 

We look forward to hearing your thoughts and ideas on how to continue making Amherstburg baseball a huge success for the children of Amherstburg.

Go Cardinals!

—Mike Mathieson

Amherstburg

The future of Amherstburg baseball has become an election issue