Prévost Minor Baseball Association Gears Up for 2022 Season
The Prévost Minor Baseball Association (ABMP) is making meaningful changes too ensure a successful 2022 season. To streamline operations, the organization has hired Julie Berniquez to manage the scheduling of referees and scorekeepers, a role previously handled by dedicated volunteers.This move allows the ABMP to focus on othre crucial aspects of the upcoming season.
Strengthening the Foundation
The ABMP acknowledges the challenges faced in 2021,notably the shortage of referees and scorekeepers. Brigitte Lacaille, who stepped up to manage this critical area, will now transition to the role of secretary on the board of directors.
Recognizing the need for stability and expertise, the ABMP has also brought on Claude Chalut to oversee referee training. These strategic additions, coupled with the experience gained from hosting playoffs in 2021, position the ABMP to potentially host a tournament in Prévost this year.Attracting and Retaining talent
To address the referee and scorekeeper shortage, the ABMP has implemented a considerable salary increase for the 2022 season. This move aims to attract and retain young talent, competing with other industries that offer competitive minimum wages.
Registration Update
While initial registration numbers were strong, the ABMP is seeing a slight slowdown in sign-ups for the 2022 season. As of March 3rd, 128 young players have registered, putting the ABMP on track to reach a similar number to 2021 (approximately 145 players).
The Rally-Caps category, however, is experiencing a decline in registrations. The ABMP plans to actively engage with past participants and welcome new players and volunteers to ensure a vibrant youth baseball community.
PSSA Partnership Continues to Thrive
The collaborative project with Sainte-Sophie and Sainte-Agathe (PSSA) is progressing well. In the Bantam (U15) category, the PSSA will field an A team and two B teams, while the Midget (U18) category will likely have only one B team. This strategic decision aims to ensure competitive balance and a positive experience for all players.
Indoor training for the PSSA will commence on March 19th at Val-des-Monts and Champ-Fleuri school gymnasiums.the regular season is scheduled to begin on may 28th, with playoffs and provincial championships taking place throughout September.
The ABMP remains committed to providing a high-quality baseball experience for young athletes in Prévost and surrounding communities. With these strategic changes and a dedicated team, the ABMP is poised for a successful 2022 season.
Benching the Volunteer Struggle: A Chat with Coach Jean-Pierre Dubois on Prévost’s Baseball Future
welcome back, sports fans! today we’ve got a home-run guest, Coach Jean-Pierre Dubois, a legend in the Prévost minor baseball scene, joining us to discuss the Prévost Minor Baseball Association’s (ABMP) big plans for the 2022 season. Coach Dubois, thanks for taking the time to chat with us!
Coach Dubois: Always happy to talk baseball, especially when it comes to the future of our young athletes hear in Prévost.
Moderator: You’ve witnessed a lot of change over the years. What are your thoughts on the ABMP’s decision to hire dedicated staff to manage scheduling and referee training?
Coach Dubois: I think it’s a stroke of genius.Volunteers are the backbone of any minor league organization, but asking them to handle complex tasks like referee scheduling stretches them thin. Bringing in professionals allows those volunteers to focus on what they do best – supporting the players and fostering a love for the game.
Moderator: Absolutely! It sounds like the ABMP is taking a proactive approach to address the referee shortage that plagued the 2021 season. How do you feel about the notable salary increase for referees and scorekeepers?
Coach Dubois: It’s about time! Frankly, the previous compensation wasn’t competitive. Young people have options these days, and if we want to attract and retain qualified referees, we need to offer fair wages.
Moderator: The article mentions a slight dip in registrations, especially in the Rally-Caps category. What are your thoughts on this trend, Coach?
Coach Dubois: A little concerning, but not unexpected. The pandemic definitely had an impact on youth sports participation. I think the ABMP is right to actively recruit new players and families. Engaging with past participants and highlighting the social and physical benefits of baseball could be key to reversing this trend.
Moderator: You know,the partnership with Sainte-Sophie and Sainte-Agathe (PSSA) seems like a smart move.What are your thoughts on the collaborative approach to team formation?
Coach Dubois: I commend the ABMP for prioritizing competitive balance rather than simply maximizing numbers. Having well-matched teams at the Bantam and Midget levels creates a more positive and rewarding experience for everyone involved.
moderator: Well said, Coach. It’s clear the ABMP is working hard to create a winning season both on and off the field. What advice would you give to young players and parents considering joining Prévost Minor Baseball this year?
Coach Dubois: Jump in! Baseball is more than just a game; it’s about teamwork, discipline, and having fun. The ABMP provides a safe and supportive habitat for kids to learn and grow.And who knows, maybe we’ll see some future major league stars emerge from Prévost!
Moderator: Coach Dubois, thank you so much for your insights and inspiring words. We wish the ABMP and all the players a fantastic 2022 season!
Now, it’s your turn, folks! What are your thoughts on the changes the ABMP is implementing? Do you think these initiatives will lead to a triumphant season? Share your opinions in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going!
