Softball spotlight on Oshawa this October
OSHAWA, Ont. – Two is better than one.
That is the philosophy the Durham College athletic department is going by this fall as they are set to host two major softball championships on campus..
For the first time in school history, Durham will be the host site for the Canadian Collegiate Softball Association (CCSA) national championship. The three-day event will run at Durham Field as well as Alexandra Park from Oct.. 9-11. Two weeks later, the Lords will host the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) provincial championship from Oct. 23-24 at Durham Field.
"What an exciting time for softball in the Durham Region," said Ken Babcock, director of athletics. "This will mark the first time that the provincial and national championship will be hosted in the same city in the same year.. Both events will be a great opportunity to showcase our campus facilities, hospitality and the Oshawa community to the rest of the country."
The national championship will feature the top eight teams in the country battling it out for the national crown. The Western Mustangs will have their sights set on another crown as they enter the championship as the four-time defending champions.
The Lords have already booked their spot in the championship as the tournament host. Their best result at nationals was in 2012 where they claimed silver after reaching the gold medal game against Western.
"We are very proud to be hosting the national championship for the first time in school history," said Babcock. "The host committee and partners around the community are stepping up and working hard to make it a memorable experience for those involved."
Durham is no stranger to hosting the OCAA championship, having last hosted it in 2011. That also marks the last time Durham won the provincial championship having gone on a three-year gold medal drought, their longest since 1991. The Lords will be looking to end the streak and claim their record 17th OCAA title in October.
The two-day double knockout championship will highlight the top four teams during league play.
"We always look forward to hosting the OCAA championship on home turf," said Babcock. "Coach (Jim) Nemish and the rest of the coaching staff have been working hard this offseason on building a championship contender."
Pitchers and catchers report to training camp on Aug. 25 followed by all players on Aug. 27.
The Lords full schedule including exhibition games is now available on durhamlords.com.
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FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Scott Dennis
Sports Information and Marketing Coordinator
Durham College and UOIT Athletics
905.721.2000 Ext. 2784 (P)
905.721.3117 (F)
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