Keeping Girls in Baseball
A movement to keep girls in baseball is gaining momentum on the North Shore, thanks to leadership from local little leagues and strong community support. Teams on the North Shore, D5 in baseball geography, see steady participation from girls at the youngest levels, but as they age, participation drops sharply. “Historically, girls move to softball or leave the sport altogether at around ages nine or 10,” explains Steve Pipkey, Past President of West Vancouver Little League. “We want to create a pathway where girls can keep playing baseball and the additional, directed funding from Neptune will support this important initiative.”
The push comes at an exciting time for women’s baseball in North America with the launch of the Women’s Professional Baseball League in the U.S. to which several local players have been drafted, piquing further interest in girls’ baseball.
Determined to keep lowering barriers to entry, Steve got a grant from Parks and Recreation Canada to help launch affordable development opportunities. Early efforts are focused on low-cost clinics led by female coaches, ensuring young players could see themselves reflected on the field.
At the provincial level, Baseball BC has also made girls baseball a priority. The organization hosted a summer league last year, which the D5 Lionesses proudly won, and continues to build competitive opportunities. Registration is now open, and organizers say they won’t turn anyone away. The program welcomes girls who want to play exclusively on a girls’ team, as well as those who wish to participate in both their home Little League and the dedicated division just for girls.
For registration details, visit: wvll.ca/programs/d5-lionesses