Burk’s Falls Hits a Home Run with Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball
Every Friday night in the Village of Burk’s Falls, Ontario, something extraordinary takes place on the local ball field. Over the past two years, the Jays Care Foundation’s Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball programs have brought children aged 7 to 13 together, creating a space where inclusivity, confidence, and community spirit thrive. These programs, led by municipal councillor and coach Ryan Baptiste, have become a community cornerstone, showing the transformative power of sport.
A Community Game-Changer
Ryan reflects on the journey with gratitude and pride. “Jays Care has been beyond supportive,” he shares. “They’ve provided everything we needed to make this successful, from adaptive equipment to excellent resources. They’ve knocked it out of the park.” The programs, which ran on the same evening in back-to-back sessions, welcomed over 20 children, each with unique abilities and stories, into an inclusive and encouraging environment.
One standout participant was a young girl with differing abilities who initially struggled with confidence. With adaptive equipment and the encouragement of her peers, she developed her skills and fell in love with the game. So much so that even after the official season ended, she continued to play informal games every Friday. “Watching her grow and seeing her determination was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had as a coach,” Baptiste recalls.
Another unforgettable moment came during the final game of the season. A young boy, who had faced bullying, hit the winning run in a dramatic last inning. His peers had rallied behind him, even writing a heartfelt letter to the coach asking that he be recognized. That evening, he received the game ball and a framed certificate, now proudly displayed next to a photo of his late father. “It wasn’t just about the game—it was about giving him a moment he’ll never forget,” says Baptiste.
Breaking Barriers with Affordability
For families in Burk’s Falls, these programs have opened doors to opportunities that might otherwise have been out of reach. At just $50 per participant—compared to $700 for travel leagues—Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball offered an affordable alternative without sacrificing quality. This affordability ensured that more children could experience the benefits of organized sports, from building friendships to developing confidence and teamwork.
Looking to the Future
With the overwhelming success of these programs, Baptiste sees a bright future. He envisions Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball becoming a permanent part of the village’s recreational calendar. “Jays Care truly knocked it out of the park with their support and resources. We’re excited to see these programs grow and continue to change lives,” Baptiste says.
Join the Movement!
Are you inspired by the incredible success of Girls At Bat and Challenger Baseball in Burk’s Falls? Jays Care Foundation’s programs are transforming communities across Canada by fostering inclusion, building confidence, and inspiring the next generation of athletes. Bring these life-changing programs to your municipality and make a lasting impact—one game at a time.
