Barriere Hits a Home Run with Girls At Bat: Building Skills and Friendships Through Basebal
In the small community of Barriere, British Columbia, baseball has always been more than just a game—it’s a way to bring people together. This year, the Girls At Bat program brought new energy to the town of 1,200, creating a transformative experience for young girls and reigniting a passion for coaching among local leaders like Kevin Kershaw. Kevin, a seasoned coach with 40 years of experience, stepped up to lead the Girls At Bat program. Held over eight weeks in a local school gym, the program brought together 18 girls aged 7–10, many of whom had never picked up a bat. Despite early challenges—like a few participants struggling with anxiety or unfamiliarity with the sport—the program created a space where every girl felt included. Grace Bakers, a women’s counsellor, helped to build emotional resilience and self-confidence among the girls. Her presence ensured participants felt supported on and off the filed, contributing to a well-rounded experience.
“We had one girl who cried when her mom left the room at the start,” Kevin recalled. “But by the end of the program, she was proudly showing off her new skills. Watching these kids grow was incredible.” For Kevin, involving four U15 players as assistant coaches was a game-changer. These young mentors served as role models, fostering a sense of camaraderie among participants. With help from Brad Bakers, who stepped in as an extra coach and provided invaluable support, the girls honed their baseball skills while also forming strong friendships, frequently helping and encouraging each other along the way.
“At the fall fair, seven participants were hanging out together like lifelong friends,” Kevin shared. “There was no bullying, no outsiders—just teamwork and laughter.” The program's success wasn’t just measured by smiles and friendships. Twelve of the 18 participants signed up for the local ball league, with eight planning to attend an upcoming camp. Parents also became an integral part of the journey, with 10–15 joining practices to cheer on the girls and lend support. Barriere’s small-town charm and close-knit community provided fertile ground for the program’s impact. “This came at just the right time,” Kevin explained. “Our minor baseball league was on the verge of shutting down a few years ago.
Girls At Bat has revived interest in the sport and given us hope for its future here.” Kevin credits the program’s structure and resources for its success. From the Coach’s Manual to athlete cards and skill-building videos, Jays Care’s comprehensive toolkit empowered him to create engaging, effective practices. “Even after 40 years of coaching, I learned new techniques,” Kevin noted. “This program is backed by thoughtful planning and quality resources.” The program’s emphasis on inclusivity also left a lasting impression. One participant with a disability found her stride alongside her peers, reinforcing that baseball is a game for everyone.
Barriere’s Girls At Bat program is set to return next year, with plans to expand its reach. Kevin hopes to see more fun, interactive games that strengthen teamwork and encourage bonding. For other communities considering adopting the program, Kevin offers this advice: “The support from Jays Care is outstanding. They’ve made it easy for a small town like ours to succeed. If you’re on the fence, just go for it. The benefits—for the kids, the parents, and the entire community—are immeasurable.” Barriere’s story is a shining example of how Girls At Bat can create a ripple effect of positivity. From building confidence and friendships to sparking renewed interest in baseball, the program is a testament to the power of sport to transform communities.
