St. Albert's premier U13 fastball team, the 2010 Angels, is making a name for itself across the province.
Under the expert guidance of head coach Cam Knechtel, the team, which is composed mostly of local grade 7 athletes, has started their season with an undefeated record.
"The team's record stands at 21 wins, zero losses and two ties," said Knechtel, noting the hard work, dedication, and contributions of every member as factors leading to the team's success.
“Our coaching staff expected to have a strong group, but until you see the competition, you never know for certain where you will fit.”
Knechtel emphasized the importance of their consistent practice schedule and team chemistry of the group that has been training together since October 2022.
The team started indoor training two to three days a week through the winter, which allowed them to come together and work on their skills.
"Each athlete has been committed to the group and our consistent practice schedule has allowed our chemistry to grow and become a cohesive group," Knechtel said.
This cohesiveness and the team's rigorous training have prepared them to face formidable competition throughout the season, Knechtel said.
"We have been tested in many games and tournaments with stiff competition. But we've learned that the hard work we put in during practice prepares us to meet any challenge."
The Angels have had their share of memorable moments this season, starting with an undefeated streak at the Ice Breaker tournament in White Rock, BC. This was soon followed by winning the gold medal at the President Cup tournament in Saskatoon, and another gold at the Fastball St. Albert invitational tournament.
"Back-to-back gold medals and tournament wins were a nice reward for such a hard-working group," Knechtel said.
These impressive tournament performances reflect the high standard of play the Angels have brought to the diamond throughout the regular season.
The group is sitting at a +74 run differential, which the coach said speaks to the strength of the group.
“Unfortunately the recent rain in St Albert yesterday and the smoke in Calgary May long weekend reduced our league games from 16 to 10 but when you compete against the strongest teams across Alberta and Saskatchewan you can only travel and play so often.”
The U13 team includes two athletes, Emma Knechtel and Tatum Lecavalier, who previously won provincials in the U13A category for the Angels in 2021 and 2022 with a group of 2009-born girls who have since aged out.
"They both bring tremendous experience to this group," the coach said.
Knechtel said the team wants to build on its success and earn a spot in the GPLS [Girls Prairie League Softball] Championship game this coming weekend in Lloydminster and compete in the Provincial Championship from July 14 -16 in Calgary
Unfortunately for St. Albert's fans, the Angels' upcoming games will be played on the road. For fans looking to keep up with the team from a distance, results and league standings can be found at www.GPLS.ca .
