If your kid has played baseball in Simcoe over the past several years, you are probably familiar with Jeff Shortt.
The President of Simcoe Minor Baseball continues to coach on two teams while overseeing the many leagues under that umbrella.
He is currently the head coach of a 13U Tier 1 Team and an Assistant Coach to an 18U Tier 1 Team.
When asked about a special moment that stands out, he didn’t have to look back far.
Jeff grew up playing baseball, loving the sport, and started dabble in coaching once he slowed down playing.
It started with helping out a former coach with a team, but picked up once his kids got into the sport.
A group of individuals joined together over the years and have been making strides when it comes to baseball in Simcoe ever since.
When asked about a favourite age group, he said around 9U is always special to watch.
He says in the age bracket, you get to see what kids have been taught over the years really start sinking in and everyone begins playing stronger and stronger.
He also commended the many volunteers that keep baseball so vibrant in the community, saying from the top down it is an “all in” affair with everyone pitching in wherever they can to make baseball essential in Norfolk.
He notes that whenever Simcoe is set to host a tournament, the other teams are always amazed by the experience here.
He also encourages people to help out wherever they can, from coaching a team or pitching in with little jobs that are needed at each game.
Every little bit helps, and it means the world to kids in our community.
You can hear our full interview with Jeff below.
Written by Matt LeBlanc