Three teams of slo-pitch players hit the field last weekend to kick off the season and remember one of Innisfail’s most dedicated ball players.
About 30 players participated in the third annual Teuling Fun Tournament, a memorial and fundraiser tournament for former Innisfail ball player, John Teuling.
Several of John’s children played in the tournament and more were in attendance at the diamond to watch a game that was once their father’s favourite.
“He just loved playing ball. No matter how the game was going he was always in a good mood,” said Sara Teuling, one of John’s daughters.
John had played in the league since it started and most people will probably remember him by his nickname Tag, said Sara.
John passed away shortly after he was diagnosed with Leukemia and at one point during his illness had to be airlifted by STARS, which is why half of the proceeds of the tournament were donated to STARS in John’s name. The rest of the proceeds go towards paying tournament costs.
During his life, John passed on his love of ball to many of his friends and all of his six children, some of which still play.
“He was one of the oldest but one of the most committed players (in the league). He always had fun and loved the sport right until the end,” said Rob Kirtzinger, a friend, and former teammate of John’s.
“Ball was his life.”
The fun tournament also helps the players get to know each other as everyone signs up as individuals and the teams are mixed to help integrate new players to the league, said Brian Burkitt, vice-president of the slo-pitch league.
The regular mixed slo-pitch season will begin on May 24th and there are currently 18 teams registered to play this year.
