The Grand Forks International (GFI) Baseball Tournament is a summertime tradition in the BOundary region, but it wouldn’t happen without the army of volunteers who help run multiple aspects of it.
This year’s tournament is scheduled to run June 22 to June 29, with eight teams competing for the prize purse at James Donaldson Park.
Every year around 100 people volunteer their time and expertise to help run the tournament, with some helping out for the whole duration of the tournament, from First Aid, front gate tickets handling and guest services, to serving food and drinks in the Hard Ball Cafe and park maintenance. Young people can also get involved as ambassadors, who consist of youth under 18 years that help with information around the park.
The motivation for many volunteering at the tournament is to make sure The GFI is a memorable experience for all who attend, while watching some great semi-professional baseball and having fun themselves.
Planning for each tournament starts as soon as the last one wraps, which includes once again calling for volunteers. However, the main body of volunteers only comes into the picture a week or two before the tournament. Anyone can volunteer, but many who answer the call are those who are able to take time off of work, often starting at 9 a.m. and staying as late as 11 p.m. on some days.
If you would like to help out, visit www.grandforksbaseball. com and click on the volunteer tab.
