A ladies fastball team is set to represent the community and the country at tournament down south. The Lambton Shores Lightning U16 bantam team is competing at the Nationals in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. The Lightning were the only Canadian team to qualify after winning the All Ontario ORSA Play-Offs. "The teams we faced were really good, and it was a little stressful at times, but when we played well, we were the better team," said infeilder Justine Dickey. The Lightning are practising in Forest until the national tournament, which goes Friday, July 5th to July 11th. Justine says they'll be ready to show what they're made. "I think we should take it one step at a time, but I think going down to Kentucky will really give us more opportunities, and it may even lead to a scholarship." To help make the trip down south more affordable, the team is reaching out to the public for donations and in hopes of receiving sponsorship. Coach Brian Turcotte said every donation makes a difference, regardless of size. "We've had a lot of folks that have stepped up-- we've had people make contributions and donations, and we have some sponsors," said Turcotte. "Obviously taking a group of 14 players and three coaches down with hotel accommodations and all that, you're talking a pretty hefty bill." Fellow Lightning coach Shawn Dickey said the organization has come a long way since being formed in 2017. "Quite frankly I just didn't want to drive my daughter 45 minutes away to play fastball. So I started our own association with just one team the first year, then we had two the next year, and we've added a boys team as well. So it's been an adventure and an experience for sure," he said. "I think it's more or less just girls wanting to stick together and not play co-ed sports." Mr. Dickey said the small town team that plays in Arkona is getting a once in a lifetime chance to represent the country on a big stage. For more information or to donate, contact Brian Turcotte at bturcotte@melloninc.ca.
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