Congratulations to Steve Travale of Kincardine Minor Baseball for being named the 2021 Baseball Ontario Volunteer of the year!
Steve spends the majority of every summer on the baseball field. Whether it be as the assistant coach of one of the local minor baseball teams, helping out with any clinic being put on by the organization, or out throwing batting practice for the local senior team. The summer of 2021 was no exception. Steve has been an assistant coach with the Kincardine 18U team for the past few years, but for 2021 he also came out to help with the younger kids on the 11U team. It is no surprise, or coincidence that both of these teams brought home provincial championships. Despite not having any family members on either team, Steve could be counted on to be there for almost every practice or game for both teams. With the 11U team Steve provided a steady positive influence to the coaching staff. Always focusing on the positives and letting every single player know his value to the team, and how that player was integral in helping the team win. Steve was always the first one to the ball park with the 11U team, ready to throw rounds of whiffle ball or tennis ball batting practice before the practice or games even began. Steve also continued his dedication after each game, by sending each player a personalized email letting him know all of the positive influences he had on the game that was just completed. He played a huge role in developing the 9 and 10 year olds on that team into champions.
Steve loves being at the diamond. The fact that he is out so much without having any kids on the teams he coaches, shows his commitment and love for the game. He is passionate, caring and dedicated. No matter the circumstances, winning or losing, you will not hear a negative comment come out of Steve’s mouth. He’s the first person to congratulate an opposing player for a nice play, and is also there for a player to let him know the things he did right when unsuccessful. He has a wealth of baseball knowledge from his many years coaching the game. It is no coincidence that Steve has been part of multiple provincial championship teams over the years.
Steve coached his two sons (2001 and 2002 birth years) all the way through their Kincardine baseball careers. He has been a member of the Kincardine Minor Baseball Association Executive as Director of Communications for the last 5 years. Steve can also be found regularly attending WOBA meetings as an alternate member, or just because he wants to be involved in improving the game in our area.
After the season is over, Steve goes above and beyond for players who have interest in continuing their playing career with the possibility of College Baseball. He helps to put together a portfolio for any interested players and points them in the direction required to apply for such ventures.
Steve can also be found reaching out to other successful organizations for information on how to improve Kincardine Baseball, and more importantly for ways to help all members/players become more successful.
Congratulations on a well deserved award!!