Newmarket Minor Softball Association is using the power of artwork to elevate both girls in sport and multiculturalism.
With the help of the Town of Newmarket, the association has installed permanent art fixtures at the Ray Twinney Recreation Complex ball diamonds made by Indigenous artist Keith Gattie. The artwork depicts hands coming together and a representation of girls playing softball.
Association executive Glenn Burton said it is part of their effort to be an inclusive place to play and meet the organization’s strategic goal of improving things for girls and women in the sport.
“I would like nothing better than a young girl who is walking through the park to see that artwork and see herself in it,” he said.
The association, represented by the Newmarket Stingers, is celebrating its 50th anniversary. Besides the unveiling of the artwork June 1, they hosted games throughout the weekend and celebrated the occasion with alumni.
Burton said research shows girls generally have fewer opportunities than boys if they want to play a sport. The association has worked to address that gap and be a more welcoming palace to girls through its programming, which he added has also helped the association grow its numbers.
“You want to keep girls in sport,” he said. “If you want to keep them playing, if you want to support them to be their best and be their authentic self, these are the things you should be doing.”
But this art project also came about as a way to recognize Indigenous voices.
“We really didn’t have a clear acknowledgement of the local Indigenous community," Burton said. "The voice of some of our players and families who have played with us, and currently play with us, really wasn’t properly recognized."
“We really hope the community will look at this,” Burton said. "We want it to be a celebration and a point of reference, whether you play softball or not, the artwork will be appreciated by the entire Newmarket community.”
