University of Toronto

U of T’s Varsity Blues baseball team begins its 2006 season with a new home base – the University Playing Fields at University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC).

The new baseball diamond, where the Blues will host the McMaster Marauders in the season opener on Sunday, September 10^th at noon, marks the first time Varsity baseball has had a permanent home, and the first time any Varsity Blues team has been headquartered beyond U of T’s downtown campus – the latest example of strengthened partnerships among the three campuses.

Coach Dan Lang is thrilled that his team has its own field.  “The new field has bleachers for about 200 fans and a lovely setting – it’s a nice boost for the players.�  But the biggest difference, he says, is the impact it will have on practice time.  “Without our own home field, booking practices was very difficult and expensive.�  Lang anticipates the stepped-up practice schedule will stand the team in good stead for OUA playoffs.

UTSC students, who funded over one-third of the new facility, are looking forward to having the first Varsity program on their campus.  “Our students have always shown vision and generosity, stepping up to the plate for numerous projects over the years,� says Jaan Laaniste, Director of Physical Education at UTSC.  “This is just another example of their commitment to enhancing student life on campus.� 

September 10th is also the official opening ceremony for the University Playing Fields, beginning at 3:00 p.m.  To celebrate, the Blues will challenge a team of U of T baseball alumni.  Spectators and community members can enjoy a complementary BBQ and refreshments during the game.

The University Playing Fields were made possible by significant contributions from Clearsight Wealth Management, Manulife Financial, MBNA and TD Meloche Monnex. The Varsity Blues baseball team is sponsored by Scotiabank.