Caledonia Team was tops in Ontario Baseball Association
Barbara A. Martindale- For What It's Worth September 9, 2013
Fifty years ago, right about now in September, the Caledonia Intermediate Baseball Club was Ontario Baseball Association A Champions.
For the players and coaches, it was a proud moment when they beat out Chatham on their home turf at McKinnon Park in Caledonia. Of course, back then champions always had the honour of riding throughout town on the fire truck with whistles and sirens blaring. The 1963 Caledonia Major A Champs were no exception.
The well-rounded group of players had a team doctor with Phil Doneff, and Roy Handcock took care of the publicity. Mike Doyle was president of the club, and George Laskey was in charge of utility needs. Another requirement was a batboy, and Ritchie Thompson filled that position. Ed Dietz, as treasurer, looked after the money.
Manager Mart Maniex, coaches John Winegard and Clare Branigan drove the team to their ultimate goal as champs.
Later, a large group of Caledonians were on hand at a banquet to congratulate the players and management at the old Legion Hall. New red jackets were presented to the team members on that occasion.
