A Brooklyn, P.E.I., resident, Ellsworth is captain of Canada’s national team.

He’s optimistic about Canada’s chances on the world stage, but acknowledges they find themselves in a very tough pool, which includes host New Zealand, which was a finalist in the last eight world championships.

The always-tough Argentina, Mexico, Venezuela and Japan are also in Canada’s pool, along with the Netherlands and Philippines. A total of 16 counties comprise the two pools of eight teams.

The tournament has been held every four years. When it was held in Saskatoon in 2009, Ellsworth and Team Canada claimed bronze. After this year’s championship, the tournament will be held every second year, and will be back in Saskatoon in 2015.

Ellsworth believes Canada is sending a stronger team this year than the one that won bronze in 2009. They are bringing five pitchers.

“They all throw really well,” he said, adding all of them have the ability to shut down opposing batters.

“It’s a tournament of momentum,” added Team Canada’s veteran outfield. “If you get the momentum going, you can win games.”

The tournament runs March 1 to 10. Team Canada is heading over to get some games in, and to get back in playing condition because, unlike the New Zealanders and the defending champion Australians, this is Canada’s off-season.

Ellsworth has been getting some throwing and batting practice in at a practice facility he built at West End Elite Gym in Alma.

Several of the players’ wives, including Ellsworth’s wife Lori, will fly to New Zealand a week later, and will be in the stands for the tournament.

 

 

wbureau@journalpioneer.com