Get active this summer by participating in and attending various sports events
Kevin Penny
writer
Spring has begun to melt away the cold winter, and with it, has brought a whole new season of sports to follow.
Hockey season is almost over and football season is a ways away, but there are still plenty of sports in Edmonton to follow during the downtime.
The lesser-publicized sports such as baseball, rugby and basketball are all set to begin their seasons in the next month or two.
Baseball teams are getting ready to play ball in May, although it might be difficult to register since most late registrations have passed for Edmonton’s little league.
Some softball tryouts are still going on, such as the ladies’ fastball team, Edmonton Warriors Pride. Their training camp ends on April 17.
If you were interested in watching a professional baseball league, then the Edmonton Capitals would be the team to support.
They have recently joined the North American League (NAL) independent circuit, a newly created baseball league. The NAL is made up of three separate leagues: the western Golden League, the Northern League from Illinois, and the United League from Texas.
The Capitals are currently warming up for their 96-game season, set to open May 25.
Edmonton’s rugby scene is one of the oldest in the city. Teams such as the Leprauchaun–Tigers and the Pirates have been around since the 1950s, and rugby itself has been played in the city since 1891.
It’s even speculated that the long-standing sports rivalry between Edmonton and Calgary was started through the first official rugby match that same year.
The deadline to register for rugby is April 23 and the season starts May 7.
Basketball season might start in May, but it’s no reason you can’t start playing today.
Gyms and parks all around the city have nets set up year-round, and all it takes is two people and a basketball to start up a game.
The Edmonton Energy is all set to play another season, complete with a brand new dance team.
Former Energy player Skouson Harker is the team’s new coach, taking over for Paul Sir who resigned last season after posting an impressive 31-10 record over his two years. The Energy’s first game is on May 13 against the Albany Legends.
The summer season isn’t just limited to team sports. Take a hike through the river valley or visit your local pool if you’re looking for some exercise, or pick up a club and play a few rounds of golf.
Just make sure to take advantage of the few months of summer Edmonton has to offer.
