Fred Lee’s social network

THE POWER OF PLAY Five years ago, the Vancouver Canadians’ senior brass of Jake Kerr, Jeff Mooney and Andy Dunn set out to create the Vancouver Canadians Foundation with the simple goal of helping as many local youth as possible build self-confidence, character and other life skills through the game of baseball.

In partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs of South Coast B.C., their summer league was born. Once again, another 300 children from across the Lower Mainland convened at Scotiabank Field at Nat Bailey Stadium for the start of the league’s sixth season. Yours truly was on hand to watch the opening pitch and to cover all the great moments on and off the field.

Building community through baseball, children ages six to 11 — many of whom have never swung a bat — came out to play the sport.

They received free equipment, a glove, helmet and bag, which they got to keep thanks to the generosity of corporate leaders, individual donors and baseball fans.

In addition to learning the game, the hope is kids will also develop a set of values that will serve them well beyond the diamond. During the next six weeks, games will be played in an atmosphere that promotes collaboration and a spirit of fair play. Children who might not otherwise have an opportunity to play baseball will be coached and mentored by a host of dedicated volunteers, media personalities and community figures.