Strathroy Inaugurates Revitalized Baseball Diamond

Hamilton Spectator

29-05-2025

STRATHROY – Despite a chilly afternoon that felt more like late autumn than spring, spirits were high on Saturday, May 24, as the community gathered at Yorkview Community Park to celebrate the grand opening of a brand-new baseball diamond. The event, which included a ribbon-cutting and ceremonial first pitches, marked the completion of a year-long revitalization project made possible through a $125,000 grant from the Jays Care Foundation's Field of Dreams program, with support from TD Bank.
Hosted by the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc, the opening was both a celebration of sport and a tribute to the power of local collaboration.
Paul Lattimore, Supervisor of Recreation, Programs and Community Liaison for the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc, opened the ceremony by acknowledging the community's enthusiasm and involvement. 'We are here to share an exciting milestone for the Jays Care Foundation Field of Dreams program,' he said, referencing the initiative that helped make the new diamond possible. He also noted the significance of the project in strengthening local recreation opportunities.
The improvements at Yorkview Park are the result of a successful grant application submitted by the municipality in 2024. The funding enabled the complete renovation of diamond #3, enhancing both the playability and accessibility of the space for local youth and families.
Strathroy-Caradoc Mayor Colin Grantham kept his remarks brief but heartfelt. 'This is a great facility. This is commendable to Strathroy, and it just adds to the compliment of recreation that we have,' he said. He also took a moment to thank Jays Care, TD Bank, and the many municipal staff who brought the project to life.
Jason Turnbull, President of the Strathroy Royals Minor Baseball Association, underscored the importance of the project for local youth. 'Fields like this one are more than just diamonds, they are safe spaces where kids learn confidence, resilience and teamwork,' he said. Turnbull noted that the association chose to hold its inaugural 'Baseball Day in Strathroy' alongside the ribbon-cutting.
TD Bank, the title sponsor of the Field of Dreams program, was represented by Rocco Di Cicco, District Vice President of Three Lakes Counties. 'At TD, we are committed to making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work,' he said. 'Congratulations to the municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc, its residents and all other baseball and community associations that will benefit from this incredible space.'
Although representatives from Jays Care Foundation were unable to attend, their presence was felt through Blue Jays-themed hats handed out to children at the event.
The ceremony concluded with three ceremonial first pitches, symbolizing the start of a new chapter for baseball in Strathroy. As players took the field, the message was clear: this diamond is more than a playing surface—it's a home for future memories, teamwork, and community connection.