The 27th Induction Ceremony for the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame will welcome the sixth team to the Shrine.
The Belleville Yardmen Benefit Fund Ladies Softball Team from 1973 to 1977 will be inducted on Saturday at 1:30.
BELLEVILLE YARDMEN BENEFIT FUND
LADIES SOFTBALL TEAM 1973-1977
2024 Inductee
Team, Softball
The Belleville Yardmen Benefit Fund Ladies Softball Team of 1973-1977 stands as a pinnacle of excellence in Ontario women’s softball. Coached by Doug Lucas, Jack Lucas and Cliff Belch, this team of dedicated athletes showcased talent and determination. Comprising 38 players over five remarkable years, the Yardmen women’s squad dominated their league, with six players contributing consistently each year and three others playing for four consecutive seasons. They claimed the league pennant an impressive four times (1973, 1974, 1975 and 1976), illustrating their consistent excellence in the regular season. Furthermore, they clinched the league championship three times (1973, 1975 and 1976), demonstrating grace under pressure during playoff competition.
Their legacy extends beyond local triumphs; the team earned the prestigious title of All Ontario Provincial Women’s Champions three times (1973, 1976 and 1977), with their inaugural victory in 1973 marking an historic milestone for Belleville women’s softball. Acknowledged by the City of Belleville with Honours & Awards on three occasions (1973, 1976 and 1977), the Yardmen Women were not only champions but also community ambassadors. They competed vigorously in tournaments across Ontario, consistently bringing home top awards for pitching, batting and tournament MVP performances.
According to Brian O’Meara, then Sports Editor at The Intelligencer, the Yardmen Women elevated Belleville softball to a special level in Ontario’s softball circles. With nicknames like Blue, Tula, Haney, Chelsea, Colgate, Pig Pen, Spot, Rapper and Spike, this fierce group of determined athletes-turned- friends put Belleville on the softball map. Their infectious energy made them easy to root for, creating unforgettable memories for fans and the community alike.
The Belleville Yardmen Benefit Fund Ladies Softball Team of 1973-1977 remains an enduring symbol of athletic excellence and community pride. Their achievements on the diamond and their impact off the field have left an indelible mark on Belleville’s sporting history. We proudly honour their legacy and welcome them into the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame. For more information, visit the team website at https://sites.google.com/view/bybfladiessoftball/home .
The Yardmen Ladies Softball Team will be inducted with Greg Terrion, Steve Stewart, Mike Kirby and Glenn Fortin Saturday afternoon at 1:30 on the second level of the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre.
The public is welcome. There is no admission charge.
