Safety concerns raised again over ball diamond

Posted on June 8, 2026 by Ryan Dahlman

Maple Creek News

Player safety concerns have been expressed again in connection with the ball diamond behind the Maple Creek Community Arena.

Last season, Leah Baratta, a former Town councillor, wrote about large gravel on the infield, particularly around home plate. It led, she said, to girls leaving the field limping, with torn pants and cuts, and bleeding after sliding into the home plate.

Unfortunately, the issue has not been resolved, she said, adding that as another softball season gets under way, the same concerns are being raised by athletes, parents, coaches, and visiting teams. In a letter to Mayor and Council, Baratta said: “In U13 softball especially, players are often required to slide into bases during close plays. The current surface contains large, sharp rocks that are causing players to fear sliding and, in many cases, sustain injuries when they do.”

She added: “These are young athletes who should be able to play safely without fear of injury from the field surface itself. Maple Creek has a strong sports community, and our ball diamonds are something both local families and visiting teams notice. At present, this particular diamond is not providing a safe playing environment for children. I respectfully ask that Council revisit this issue and consider replacing the current material with an appropriate ball diamond surface before another season passes. Even small improvements would make a meaningful difference in player safety and confidence.”

Baratta’s letter was discussed at the May 26 meeting of Maple Creek Town Council.

Councillor Tina Cresswell asked whether any work had been done on the ball diamonds referred to in the letter.

Barry Elliott, chief administrative officer, said he was aware of seasonal maintenance being carried out.

Michelle McKenzie, the mayor, recommended that the letter be sent to committee for discussion.

Councillor Corrine Collura wondered whether the Town had reached out to people involved in softball, such as a coach, for their opinions.

Elliott said there had been conversations.

It was agreed that the ball diamond surface was usable and seemed to be at least adequate, even if it could be better.

McKenzie said in those conversations it was felt that the surface wasn’t dangerous, and the issue depended on athletes being taught to slide properly.

Councillor Betty Abbott said the argument about girls learning to slide properly, while getting hurt made her even angrier.

“That doesn’t sit well with me,” she said.

Councillor Mike Stork said there had been talk about a parks committee and recreation committee.

It was time to get moving on both, ensuring good representation from the community.

These committees, he said, could come up with recommendations.

Councillor Len Barkman said residents often looked to the Town to improve facilities. Here was an opportunity for the community to be involved.

Councillor Abbott agreed that it would be good to have a board set up to identify issues that needed addressing and volunteer to help.

She understood McKenzie’s wish to refer the matter to committee, but pointed out the ball season was short.

“By the time we have a committee meeting, the season will be over.”

McKenzie said the next committee meeting was in June.

There was more to discuss than just shale, she said. For instance, there needed to be a conversation about bleachers.

Although it might be too late to resolve the ball diamond issue this season, it could be sorted out for 2027, McKenzie added.

Council agreed to refer the matter to committee.