LEWISTON, Idaho, April 1—Uniform troubles are dogging Laurel Harney, manager of the Victoria Athletics of the Western International Baseball League, who arrived here Saturday with 20 players to set up a spring training camp.
Harney found the most careful plans of a baseball manager can go astray.
He had arranged to have a complete set of new uniforms ready when his team arrived. A checkup with the local supply house disclosed the same old story—back orders too many and lack of materials. Harney is unhappy but hopes the unies will arrive in time to open the season in April.
Harney brought a starting squad of four outfielders, seven pitchers and three catchers including himself. He plans to work behind the plate in relief roles during the season.
Showing posts with label Victoria. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Victoria. Show all posts
Sunday, 5 October 2008
Laurel Harney Talks Baseball
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, March 14, 1946]
PRO BASEBALL IS COMING BACK
Professional baseball will make its reappearance in Victoria this Summer after a lapse of more than two decades, thanks to the initiative of Laurel Harney, former playing manager of the Victoria Machinery Depot, city champions.
We are prepared to admit that the support of more than 200 local shareholders of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., the greater number of them businessmen, has actually made the move possible, but the one man who started the ball rolling was the peppery receiver of the shipbuilders, Laurel Harney.
Always a strong supporter of the diamond pastime, a sports which he has more than once tabbed as “the best game in the world,” Laurel Harney deserves the congratulations of every baseball-minded Victorian for the part he has played to place Victoria back into the professional baseball field.
A veteran athlete who has had considerable experience in sports generally as a player, manager and coach, Harney has worked hard to advance the plan to its present stage, and knowing sports and its obstacles, he realizes he still has a lot of hard work ahead of him. But he has the will and determination to succeed, and the ambition and drive to exert every influence to put it over.
Return of the professional diamond pastime will give the city much valuable advertising and go a long way to publicizing this city in the Pacific Northwest. Then too, it will be responsible for giving Victoria a vastly improved and up-to-date baseball park, something sports here have needed for a long time.
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, March 14, 1946]
PRO BASEBALL IS COMING BACK
Professional baseball will make its reappearance in Victoria this Summer after a lapse of more than two decades, thanks to the initiative of Laurel Harney, former playing manager of the Victoria Machinery Depot, city champions.
We are prepared to admit that the support of more than 200 local shareholders of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., the greater number of them businessmen, has actually made the move possible, but the one man who started the ball rolling was the peppery receiver of the shipbuilders, Laurel Harney.
Always a strong supporter of the diamond pastime, a sports which he has more than once tabbed as “the best game in the world,” Laurel Harney deserves the congratulations of every baseball-minded Victorian for the part he has played to place Victoria back into the professional baseball field.
A veteran athlete who has had considerable experience in sports generally as a player, manager and coach, Harney has worked hard to advance the plan to its present stage, and knowing sports and its obstacles, he realizes he still has a lot of hard work ahead of him. But he has the will and determination to succeed, and the ambition and drive to exert every influence to put it over.
Return of the professional diamond pastime will give the city much valuable advertising and go a long way to publicizing this city in the Pacific Northwest. Then too, it will be responsible for giving Victoria a vastly improved and up-to-date baseball park, something sports here have needed for a long time.
Work Continues on Victoria WIL Park
Carpenters Busy With Alterations at Athletic Park
Additional Grandstand Facilities Will Be Completed in Three Weeks—Lights on Order
[Victoria Colonist, Feb. 27, 1946]
Renovation of Royal Athletic Park for the return of professional baseball this Summer is now in full swing and should be completed in about there weeks, Laurel Harney, manager of the Victoria Athletics, local entry in the Western International Baseball League, announced today.
Parfitt Bros., local contractors, are carrying out the alterations to the seating accommodation, alterations which will provide additional grandstand seating for approximately 3,000 fans. Two new wings are being added to the present grandstand facilities at a cost of $14,000, Harney stated.
Lighting equipment for the ball park has been ordered from the Canadian General Electric and Northern Electric, and when installed, the system will cost approximately $7,000. The lighting will conform favourably with that in use in most Pacific Coast Baseball League parks.
The fixture list finally adopted at the Seattle conclave calls for 143 games, Harney added with Victoria Athletics being billed at home for 71 games and away for the remaining 72 contests. In addition to full weeks at home Victoria will have a number of split-weeks to round out the fixture list. On full weeks at the Caledonia Avenue ball lot the Athletics will play single night games on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, with a double-header on Saturdays.
ATHLETICS TO OPEN TRAINING MARCH 1
Manager Laurel Harney stated last night that the Victoria Athletics will open their Spring training camp at Lewiston, Idaho, on March 1, and will break camp on March 24, two days prior to the official opening of the season. Athletics will take between 25 and 30 players to camp for training sessions.
Harney plans to leave for Oakland about March 12, to talk over the player situation with the management of the Pacific Coast League Baseball League team. He announced yesterday that six players have been signed to date: Stan Curry, Al Raimondi, and Joe Blankenship, pitchers; Frank Cirimele, second baseman; Les Mulcahy, catcher, and Tony Moreno, outfielder.
“Lefty” Maze, Army portsider who pitched for the soldiers at Royal Athletic Park prior to going overseas, will go to training camp with the Victoria team Maze, still in the services, has been approached by the local management but must secure his discharge before he can be signed by the Athletics.
While the post-season play-offs have been eliminated this season, the regular $5,000 bonus usually set aside for the play-offs will be available for the teams. It will be divided between the four top teams at the termination of the league schedule. The pennant winner will receive $2,000, with the balance being as follows: second team, $1,200; third team $1,000 and fourth team $800.
Discussing the opposition to the play-offs, Harney said, “Veteran managers are opposed to the plan as the feel that the team winnings the lengthy league schedule should be classified as champions. Then, too, in previous years, bad weather has been encountered during play-off time.”
Additional Grandstand Facilities Will Be Completed in Three Weeks—Lights on Order
[Victoria Colonist, Feb. 27, 1946]
Renovation of Royal Athletic Park for the return of professional baseball this Summer is now in full swing and should be completed in about there weeks, Laurel Harney, manager of the Victoria Athletics, local entry in the Western International Baseball League, announced today.
Parfitt Bros., local contractors, are carrying out the alterations to the seating accommodation, alterations which will provide additional grandstand seating for approximately 3,000 fans. Two new wings are being added to the present grandstand facilities at a cost of $14,000, Harney stated.
Lighting equipment for the ball park has been ordered from the Canadian General Electric and Northern Electric, and when installed, the system will cost approximately $7,000. The lighting will conform favourably with that in use in most Pacific Coast Baseball League parks.
The fixture list finally adopted at the Seattle conclave calls for 143 games, Harney added with Victoria Athletics being billed at home for 71 games and away for the remaining 72 contests. In addition to full weeks at home Victoria will have a number of split-weeks to round out the fixture list. On full weeks at the Caledonia Avenue ball lot the Athletics will play single night games on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, with a double-header on Saturdays.
ATHLETICS TO OPEN TRAINING MARCH 1
Manager Laurel Harney stated last night that the Victoria Athletics will open their Spring training camp at Lewiston, Idaho, on March 1, and will break camp on March 24, two days prior to the official opening of the season. Athletics will take between 25 and 30 players to camp for training sessions.
Harney plans to leave for Oakland about March 12, to talk over the player situation with the management of the Pacific Coast League Baseball League team. He announced yesterday that six players have been signed to date: Stan Curry, Al Raimondi, and Joe Blankenship, pitchers; Frank Cirimele, second baseman; Les Mulcahy, catcher, and Tony Moreno, outfielder.
“Lefty” Maze, Army portsider who pitched for the soldiers at Royal Athletic Park prior to going overseas, will go to training camp with the Victoria team Maze, still in the services, has been approached by the local management but must secure his discharge before he can be signed by the Athletics.
While the post-season play-offs have been eliminated this season, the regular $5,000 bonus usually set aside for the play-offs will be available for the teams. It will be divided between the four top teams at the termination of the league schedule. The pennant winner will receive $2,000, with the balance being as follows: second team, $1,200; third team $1,000 and fourth team $800.
Discussing the opposition to the play-offs, Harney said, “Veteran managers are opposed to the plan as the feel that the team winnings the lengthy league schedule should be classified as champions. Then, too, in previous years, bad weather has been encountered during play-off time.”
Saturday, 4 October 2008
Victoria WIL Club Gets Name
Local Ball Team Will Be Known as Victoria Athletics
[Victoria Colonist, Jan. 10, 1954]
Victoria’s entry in the reorganized Western International Baseball League will be known as the Victoria Athletics, Manager Laurel Harney announced last night following a meeting of directors to select a winner from the hundreds of entries submitted in the contest conducted by the club to determine a suitable name.
The winning name was submitted by well over a dozen of the entrants and the contest winner will be chosen by lot at the Rotary Club luncheon at the Empress Hotel today at 12:30 p.m. with Mayor Percy E. George making the draw. The winner will receive two box seats to each of the 70 home games to be played at Royal Athletic Park by the Victoria club.
E.A. Irving Wins Baseball Contest
[Victoria Colonist, Jan. 11, 1946]
Two free season seats for home games of the Victoria Athletics, of the Western International Baseball League, were awarded to Edwin A. Irving, 804 Lampson Street, winner of the contest conducted by the club to find a suitable name.
The name of Victoria Athletics was submitted by Mr. Irving and 13 others, and his name was drawn from a hat by Mayor Percy E. George at yesterday’s luncheon meeting of the Victoria Rotary Club.
[Victoria Colonist, Jan. 10, 1954]
Victoria’s entry in the reorganized Western International Baseball League will be known as the Victoria Athletics, Manager Laurel Harney announced last night following a meeting of directors to select a winner from the hundreds of entries submitted in the contest conducted by the club to determine a suitable name.
The winning name was submitted by well over a dozen of the entrants and the contest winner will be chosen by lot at the Rotary Club luncheon at the Empress Hotel today at 12:30 p.m. with Mayor Percy E. George making the draw. The winner will receive two box seats to each of the 70 home games to be played at Royal Athletic Park by the Victoria club.
E.A. Irving Wins Baseball Contest
[Victoria Colonist, Jan. 11, 1946]
Two free season seats for home games of the Victoria Athletics, of the Western International Baseball League, were awarded to Edwin A. Irving, 804 Lampson Street, winner of the contest conducted by the club to find a suitable name.
The name of Victoria Athletics was submitted by Mr. Irving and 13 others, and his name was drawn from a hat by Mayor Percy E. George at yesterday’s luncheon meeting of the Victoria Rotary Club.
Who Will Victoria Sign?
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Jan. 8, 1946]
HARNEY BUSY WITH BASEBALL CONTRACTS
Back in Victoria after attending the Western International Baseball parley at Tacoma over the week-end, Laurel Harney, manager of Victoria’s entry in the Class “B” professional circuit, is busy with players’ contracts and other matters dealing with plans for the coming season.
Chatting yesterday on the player question, Harney made it perfectly clear that the Victoria club is willing and actually anxious to have as many Victoria players as possible make the grade, on the local team. On the very same question, Harney made it known that Gil Bruce, Navy fly-shagger and top sticker in the Victoria Senior League last season, as been offered a contract. While not disclosing any names, Harney added that other players have been contacted with a view to signing contracts.
Victoria will establish its training camp at Lewiston, Idaho, with training scheduled to commence on April 1, but there will be “no fooling.” Harney has not announced the number of players to be taken to the training camp, but it is a foregone conclusion that plenty of baseball talent will be on hand.
The Western International Baseball League will be operated on a straight pennant race this season with the elimination of the post-season play-offs. The Victoria manager had held out for play-offs, but the matter was defeated by other owners at the W.I.B.L. sessions. “Old operators in the W.I.B.L. have always lost money on post-season play-offs because of the lateness of the season and the unfavorable weather,” Harney said last night. “The pool usually set for the play-offs will go to the four top teams and will be divided according to their positions in the pennant race at the conclusion of play,” Harney added.
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Jan. 8, 1946]
HARNEY BUSY WITH BASEBALL CONTRACTS
Back in Victoria after attending the Western International Baseball parley at Tacoma over the week-end, Laurel Harney, manager of Victoria’s entry in the Class “B” professional circuit, is busy with players’ contracts and other matters dealing with plans for the coming season.
Chatting yesterday on the player question, Harney made it perfectly clear that the Victoria club is willing and actually anxious to have as many Victoria players as possible make the grade, on the local team. On the very same question, Harney made it known that Gil Bruce, Navy fly-shagger and top sticker in the Victoria Senior League last season, as been offered a contract. While not disclosing any names, Harney added that other players have been contacted with a view to signing contracts.
Victoria will establish its training camp at Lewiston, Idaho, with training scheduled to commence on April 1, but there will be “no fooling.” Harney has not announced the number of players to be taken to the training camp, but it is a foregone conclusion that plenty of baseball talent will be on hand.
The Western International Baseball League will be operated on a straight pennant race this season with the elimination of the post-season play-offs. The Victoria manager had held out for play-offs, but the matter was defeated by other owners at the W.I.B.L. sessions. “Old operators in the W.I.B.L. have always lost money on post-season play-offs because of the lateness of the season and the unfavorable weather,” Harney said last night. “The pool usually set for the play-offs will go to the four top teams and will be divided according to their positions in the pennant race at the conclusion of play,” Harney added.
Victoria Promised Player Support
Harney Says City Baseball Outlook Good
[Victoria Colonist, Dec. 18, 1946]
Victoria’s baseball prospects in the Western International League look better than ever, Laurel Harney, manager of the city’s entry in the league, said here yesterday on his return from annual meeting of the National Association of Professional Baseball League, held in Columbus, Ohio.
White away he held lengthy discussions with Vic Devincenzi, business manager of the Oakland club in the Pacific Coast League, and Brick Laws, co-owner of the club.
In Harney’s opinion Oakland will do all possible to supply Victoria with good players, and will look upon the Victoria team as a farm club. The Oakland team, which will lend its support to Victoria, has already promised Harney a number of players.
Others in Columbus stated that Victoria had made a good deal in aligning itself with Oakland, since the Oakland team has the reputation of having more players returning from the services than any other club on the Coast.
Harney also was promised support by Ray Kennedy, recently appointed general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kennedy, who spent 13 years in the New York Yankees chain, promised the Victoria manager all assistance possible, and said he would be willing to help the Victoria club with the odd player. Harney said, however, that he was satisfied with the Oakland proposition and preferred to work with one team.
While in Columbus, Harney met “Happy” Chandler, American baseball commissioner; Joe McCarthy, manager of the Yankees, and Billy Southworth, formerly with the St. Louis Cardinals and now at Boston. He also spent some time with Lester Patrick in New York.
[Victoria Colonist, Dec. 18, 1946]
Victoria’s baseball prospects in the Western International League look better than ever, Laurel Harney, manager of the city’s entry in the league, said here yesterday on his return from annual meeting of the National Association of Professional Baseball League, held in Columbus, Ohio.
White away he held lengthy discussions with Vic Devincenzi, business manager of the Oakland club in the Pacific Coast League, and Brick Laws, co-owner of the club.
In Harney’s opinion Oakland will do all possible to supply Victoria with good players, and will look upon the Victoria team as a farm club. The Oakland team, which will lend its support to Victoria, has already promised Harney a number of players.
Others in Columbus stated that Victoria had made a good deal in aligning itself with Oakland, since the Oakland team has the reputation of having more players returning from the services than any other club on the Coast.
Harney also was promised support by Ray Kennedy, recently appointed general manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kennedy, who spent 13 years in the New York Yankees chain, promised the Victoria manager all assistance possible, and said he would be willing to help the Victoria club with the odd player. Harney said, however, that he was satisfied with the Oakland proposition and preferred to work with one team.
While in Columbus, Harney met “Happy” Chandler, American baseball commissioner; Joe McCarthy, manager of the Yankees, and Billy Southworth, formerly with the St. Louis Cardinals and now at Boston. He also spent some time with Lester Patrick in New York.
Athletic Park to be Victoria WIL Field
Victoria Squad Gets 10-Year Lease on Park
VICTORIA, Dec. 18—Victoria city council Monday approved a 10-year lease of Royal Athletic Park to the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co. Ltd., Victoria’s newly-organized entry in the Western International Baseball League.
Floodlights for night ball will be installed by the club and te cost of bleachers and box seats will be shared equally by the club and city.
The city will receive five percent of gross gate receipts after amusement tax deduction and is guaranteed at least $4,000 annually.
The pro club will have exclusive rights to all concessions subject to one current agreement. From this source the city will receive 20 per cent gross profits for five years and 25 per cent for the remaining five years of the lease.
VICTORIA, Dec. 18—Victoria city council Monday approved a 10-year lease of Royal Athletic Park to the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co. Ltd., Victoria’s newly-organized entry in the Western International Baseball League.
Floodlights for night ball will be installed by the club and te cost of bleachers and box seats will be shared equally by the club and city.
The city will receive five percent of gross gate receipts after amusement tax deduction and is guaranteed at least $4,000 annually.
The pro club will have exclusive rights to all concessions subject to one current agreement. From this source the city will receive 20 per cent gross profits for five years and 25 per cent for the remaining five years of the lease.
Get Your Entry in Now, Victorians!
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Nov. 23, 1945]
BASEBALL CONTEST WILL CLOSE SATURDAY NIGHT
With more than 1,000 entries submitted before the deadline Saturday, officials of the Victoria Baseball & Athletic Co., Ltd., sponsors of the local entry in the Western International Baseball League, last night expressed themselves as more than pleased with the success or their contest to select a suitable name for Victoria’s professional baseball team.
Laurel Harney, manager of the local diamond pastimers, announced yesterday that the contest, which opened on October 24, will definitely close tomorrow, and all entries bearing a November 24 postmark will be eligible.
“We have a large selection of names and as soon as the competition closes will get to the job of picking the winning entry. We realize it will be quite a task and will take considerable time. However, we will make our decision as early as possible as we fully appreciate the interest displayed in the competition by baseball fans,” Laurel Harney added.
Entries marked “Baseball Name Contest” should be mailed to the sports department of this newspaper not later than Saturday night in order to qualify for the prize, two box seat tickets at all home league games of the Victoria team.
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Nov. 23, 1945]
BASEBALL CONTEST WILL CLOSE SATURDAY NIGHT
With more than 1,000 entries submitted before the deadline Saturday, officials of the Victoria Baseball & Athletic Co., Ltd., sponsors of the local entry in the Western International Baseball League, last night expressed themselves as more than pleased with the success or their contest to select a suitable name for Victoria’s professional baseball team.
Laurel Harney, manager of the local diamond pastimers, announced yesterday that the contest, which opened on October 24, will definitely close tomorrow, and all entries bearing a November 24 postmark will be eligible.
“We have a large selection of names and as soon as the competition closes will get to the job of picking the winning entry. We realize it will be quite a task and will take considerable time. However, we will make our decision as early as possible as we fully appreciate the interest displayed in the competition by baseball fans,” Laurel Harney added.
Entries marked “Baseball Name Contest” should be mailed to the sports department of this newspaper not later than Saturday night in order to qualify for the prize, two box seat tickets at all home league games of the Victoria team.
Luarel Harney to be Victoria Field Boss
Harney Will Manage Victoria Ball Club
[Victoria Colonist, Nov. 8, 1945]
Laurel Harney, who has played a leading role in the organizing of the Victoria entry in the Western International Baseball League, will manage the local club next year. Confirmation of his appointment was made yesterday by officials of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., owners of the franchise.
A prominent sports figure in Western Canada, Harney starred for Edmonton baseball clubs for many years. He toured with the House of David nine in 1938, and on the strength of his showing was [unreadable]d enough to receive a tryout with the Seattle Rainiers in 1939. In recent years, his baseball activity has been confined to Victoria and local fans know him well as the playing manager of the powerful V.M.D. clubs in 1943 and 1944. Well versed in baseball strategy, Harney believes condition and hustle are of paramount importance and fans are assured the local W.I.B.L. entry will be a fighting ball club.
[Victoria Colonist, Nov. 8, 1945]
Laurel Harney, who has played a leading role in the organizing of the Victoria entry in the Western International Baseball League, will manage the local club next year. Confirmation of his appointment was made yesterday by officials of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., owners of the franchise.
A prominent sports figure in Western Canada, Harney starred for Edmonton baseball clubs for many years. He toured with the House of David nine in 1938, and on the strength of his showing was [unreadable]d enough to receive a tryout with the Seattle Rainiers in 1939. In recent years, his baseball activity has been confined to Victoria and local fans know him well as the playing manager of the powerful V.M.D. clubs in 1943 and 1944. Well versed in baseball strategy, Harney believes condition and hustle are of paramount importance and fans are assured the local W.I.B.L. entry will be a fighting ball club.
Victoria Has Club President
Baseball Company Names Officers
[Victoria Colonist, Nov. 7, 1945]
Directors of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., backers of the local entry in the Western International Baseball league, last night named J.V. Johnson, prominent local businessman and a well-known figure in local sports circles, president of the club.
Eric Cox, one of Victoria’s better-known younger businessmen, was named Secretary, and Jim Neely, prominent hotelman, was elected treasurer.
[Victoria Colonist, Nov. 7, 1945]
Directors of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., backers of the local entry in the Western International Baseball league, last night named J.V. Johnson, prominent local businessman and a well-known figure in local sports circles, president of the club.
Eric Cox, one of Victoria’s better-known younger businessmen, was named Secretary, and Jim Neely, prominent hotelman, was elected treasurer.
What to Call Victoria WIL Club?
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Oct. 21, 1945]
FANS TO NAME BASEBALL TEAM
The question is frequently asked: “What’s in a name?” To thousands of Victoria baseball fans the name of their professional team in the Western International League will probably be an important item.
Anxious to get a good moniker for their club, officials of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., have decided to stage a name contest, Laurel Harney, one of the prime movers in the baseball plan, announced last night.
The contest will be open to all, with a suitable prize going to the person submitting the winning name. Contestants are invited to file their entries with the sports department of this paper. All entries shuld be marked “Baseball Name Contest.”
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Oct. 21, 1945]
FANS TO NAME BASEBALL TEAM
The question is frequently asked: “What’s in a name?” To thousands of Victoria baseball fans the name of their professional team in the Western International League will probably be an important item.
Anxious to get a good moniker for their club, officials of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., have decided to stage a name contest, Laurel Harney, one of the prime movers in the baseball plan, announced last night.
The contest will be open to all, with a suitable prize going to the person submitting the winning name. Contestants are invited to file their entries with the sports department of this paper. All entries shuld be marked “Baseball Name Contest.”
Oaks to Help Victoria
Victoria to Get Players From Oakland
[Victoria Colonist, Sept. 25, 1946]
Confident that Victoria will come up with a good team in the Western International Baseball League, Laurel Harney arrived back in the city yesterday after visiting Oakland and San Francisco to look into the player situation.
The local baseball man was in conference with the managers of the Oakland Acorns and San Francisco Seals, and stated last night that an arrangement ha been reached with the former. “We have made an arrangement with Oakland to supply us with enough players for our entry into the Western International League,” Harney said.
Present plans call for Victoria to get six players on option, with the balance of the club being young material. In addition to the arrangement with Oakland, San Francisco promised help after keeping their agreement with Salt Lake City.
“There appears to be plenty of baseball material available, and with so many players returning from the war fronts there will probably be a surplus of players,” Harney intimated. As an indication of the material which will be available during the 1946 season, Haney stated that Sacramento has 122 new players ready to report.
In addition to the arrangement with Oakland, Eddie Leishman, Oakland scout and former manager of the Spokane team in the W.I.B.L., will scout for Victoria during the operation of the Winter League in California.
“Leishman knows the calibre of players needed for the Western International League, and his assistance in lining up additional players for the Victoria team should prove very satisfactory,” Harney stated.
Contrary to expectations, the Victoria team will not do its Spring training at home. Negotiations are now being conducted with Walla Walla, Wash., and Lewiston, Idaho in for the purpose of setting up training quarters.
[Victoria Colonist, Sept. 25, 1946]
Confident that Victoria will come up with a good team in the Western International Baseball League, Laurel Harney arrived back in the city yesterday after visiting Oakland and San Francisco to look into the player situation.
The local baseball man was in conference with the managers of the Oakland Acorns and San Francisco Seals, and stated last night that an arrangement ha been reached with the former. “We have made an arrangement with Oakland to supply us with enough players for our entry into the Western International League,” Harney said.
Present plans call for Victoria to get six players on option, with the balance of the club being young material. In addition to the arrangement with Oakland, San Francisco promised help after keeping their agreement with Salt Lake City.
“There appears to be plenty of baseball material available, and with so many players returning from the war fronts there will probably be a surplus of players,” Harney intimated. As an indication of the material which will be available during the 1946 season, Haney stated that Sacramento has 122 new players ready to report.
In addition to the arrangement with Oakland, Eddie Leishman, Oakland scout and former manager of the Spokane team in the W.I.B.L., will scout for Victoria during the operation of the Winter League in California.
“Leishman knows the calibre of players needed for the Western International League, and his assistance in lining up additional players for the Victoria team should prove very satisfactory,” Harney stated.
Contrary to expectations, the Victoria team will not do its Spring training at home. Negotiations are now being conducted with Walla Walla, Wash., and Lewiston, Idaho in for the purpose of setting up training quarters.
Who Will Play for Victoria?
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Sept. 21, 1945]
Judging by the mad scramble for berths in the Western International Baseball League, there is every indication that plenty of diamond material will be available when the Class “B” professional league resumes next Summer after being idle since 1942.
Most pleasing to many Victorians is the fact that W.T. Straith, M.L.A., and Laurel Harney, this city’s baseball ambassadors, were able to sell the directors of the W.I.B.L. on admitting Victoria to the league.
The success enjoyed by the two Victorians who attended the meeting assures hundreds of Victorians the opportunity of seeing professional baseball right in their own backyard. In an “on the street poll” conducted by this department yesterday, we found a very favourable response to the move, with all of those questioned delighted with the proposal.
To the old-timers, of course, professional baseball in Victoria is not new. They recall very vividly the fixtures here in the old Northwest League, and the fact that Victoria sent a number of fine ball players up to the “big time.” Now, almost a quarter of a century later, with the return of the professional baseball pastime, it will be, to a large extent, a new crowd of fans who will follow the sport here.
Victoria is a good baseball town. That has been proven in the past. And with the professional diamond pastime and the added novelty of a lighted ball park Victorians will eagerly away the arrival of the Summer of 1946 and this city’s entry in the Western International Baseball League.
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Sept. 21, 1945]
Judging by the mad scramble for berths in the Western International Baseball League, there is every indication that plenty of diamond material will be available when the Class “B” professional league resumes next Summer after being idle since 1942.
Most pleasing to many Victorians is the fact that W.T. Straith, M.L.A., and Laurel Harney, this city’s baseball ambassadors, were able to sell the directors of the W.I.B.L. on admitting Victoria to the league.
The success enjoyed by the two Victorians who attended the meeting assures hundreds of Victorians the opportunity of seeing professional baseball right in their own backyard. In an “on the street poll” conducted by this department yesterday, we found a very favourable response to the move, with all of those questioned delighted with the proposal.
To the old-timers, of course, professional baseball in Victoria is not new. They recall very vividly the fixtures here in the old Northwest League, and the fact that Victoria sent a number of fine ball players up to the “big time.” Now, almost a quarter of a century later, with the return of the professional baseball pastime, it will be, to a large extent, a new crowd of fans who will follow the sport here.
Victoria is a good baseball town. That has been proven in the past. And with the professional diamond pastime and the added novelty of a lighted ball park Victorians will eagerly away the arrival of the Summer of 1946 and this city’s entry in the Western International Baseball League.
Lookahead to '46
The Bullpen
By CARL ROBERTSON
[Vancouver News-Herald, Sept. 20, 1946]
From all indications, Victoria will be one of the strongest links in the Western International League next season. George Straith, one of the backers of the club, was in town Wednesday and reports that several changes are in store for Royal Athletic Park.
Lights will be installed and the stands will be moved back 25 feet. Additional bleachers will also be constructed.
Strongest in History
At present, Laurel Harney, former House of David star, and probably manager of the Victoria entry, is in Oakland attempting to line up the Coast League club for a working agreement.
Victoria’s population is now over the 100,000 mark and it is a good sports town. Baseball this season has gone over well with packed houses the rule rather than the exception.
As things look now, the W.I.L. will be stronger in 1946 than at any time in its history. Vancouver is owned by the Seattle Rainiers; Salem by the Portland Beavers; Tacoma has a working agreement with San Francisco; Wenatchee may link up with a major league club and Victoria with the Oaks. Spokane has always been one of the strong members of the loop.
New Stadium Soon
Capilano Stadium will probably be enlarges at the beginning of the season but from present indications, our new stadium will probably be ready by mid-season. Site of the new concrete edifice is likely to be the east side of Little Mountain. A spot behind the Great Northern Station is also under consideration.
All in all, everything points to a great baseball season next year.
By CARL ROBERTSON
[Vancouver News-Herald, Sept. 20, 1946]
From all indications, Victoria will be one of the strongest links in the Western International League next season. George Straith, one of the backers of the club, was in town Wednesday and reports that several changes are in store for Royal Athletic Park.
Lights will be installed and the stands will be moved back 25 feet. Additional bleachers will also be constructed.
Strongest in History
At present, Laurel Harney, former House of David star, and probably manager of the Victoria entry, is in Oakland attempting to line up the Coast League club for a working agreement.
Victoria’s population is now over the 100,000 mark and it is a good sports town. Baseball this season has gone over well with packed houses the rule rather than the exception.
As things look now, the W.I.L. will be stronger in 1946 than at any time in its history. Vancouver is owned by the Seattle Rainiers; Salem by the Portland Beavers; Tacoma has a working agreement with San Francisco; Wenatchee may link up with a major league club and Victoria with the Oaks. Spokane has always been one of the strong members of the loop.
New Stadium Soon
Capilano Stadium will probably be enlarges at the beginning of the season but from present indications, our new stadium will probably be ready by mid-season. Site of the new concrete edifice is likely to be the east side of Little Mountain. A spot behind the Great Northern Station is also under consideration.
All in all, everything points to a great baseball season next year.
Victoria in WIL, Other Cities Considered
Victoria Bid Is Approved
TACOMA, Sept. 16—Application of Victoria, B.C., for membership the class B Western International Baseball league was approved by directors meeting here.
Bids for other franchises became so complicated that the directors decided to postpone further action until September 30, when a meeting will be held in Seattle.
Two applications were received to operate in Yakima, one from a group of local businessmen, and the other from Yubi Separovich, business manager of the Sacramento coast league club in behalf of the Solons.
Wenatchee, backed by the St. Louis Cardinals; Bremerton, a surprise contender; and Pasco-Kennewick, the latter by long distance during the meeting, also sought berths.
There are four holdover members from 1942, last year of the league's operation — Vancouver B.C., Salem, Ore., and Spokane and Tacoma in this state.
With five clubs in the circuit and applications from four others it is considered possible that the league will enlarge to eight teams at the Seattle meeting, President Robert Abel indicated.
Accept Victoria Entry in W.I.L.; Colons Make Bid
[Vancouver News-Herald, Sept. 17, 1945]
Victoria Sunday became the second Canadian entry in the Western International Baseball League, which will resume operations next year after a three-year war lapse.
Bid of the Victoria interests, presented by Laurel Harney, well-known puckster and ex-House of David ball player, and William Straith, was accepted at a league meeting in Tacoma on the week-end.
The island city will join Bob Brown’s Vancouver club, Salem, Tacoma and Spokane, the latter four teams being leftovers in the Class B pro loop.
President Bob Abel and the directors were fairly swamped with applications for loop membership, and bidding became so brisk that further action was postponed until Sept. 30, when another meeting will be held in Seattle.
SACRAMENTO INTERESTED
Two applications were received from Yakima interests, one coming from a group of businessmen, and the other from Yubi Separovich, representing the Sacramento team in the Pacific Coast League. Separovich, one of the men who saved the Sacramento franchise when there was talk of moving it here a couple of seasons back, is currently business manager of the Solons.
Wenatchee, which is backed by the St. Louis Cardinals, made a bid as expected; Bremerton was a surprise would-be entrant, and Pasco-Kennewick, who phoned long distance during the meeting, also sought a berth.
Indications were that the loop would expand to eight teams at the Seattle meeting.
Professional Baseball Assured For This City
Victoria Granted Franchise at W.I.B.L. Parley at Tacoma—Many Clubs Seek Entry
[Victoria Colonist, Tuesday, Sept. 18, 1945]
Professional baseball will return to Victoria next Summer.
This was assured Sunday at Tacoma when directors of the Class “B” Western International Baseball League accepted the application of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., for a franchise for this city. The successful bid was presented by W.T. Straith, M.L.A., and Laurel Harney.
With the franchise assured, Harney left immediately for Oakland to carry on negotiations with the officials of the Oakland Pacific Coast League team on the question of a player tie-up.
At Sunday’s parley bid for franchises became so complicated that the directors decided to postpone further action until September 30m when a meeting will be held in Seattle.
Two applications were received to operate in Yakima, one from a group of local businessmen, and the other from Yubi Separovich, business manager of the Sacramento Pacific Coast League club in behalf of the Solons.
Wenatchee, backed by the St. Louis Cardinals, Bremerton, a surprise contender, and Pasco-Kennewick, the latter by long-distance during the weekend, also sought berths.
There are four holdover members from 1942, last year of the league’s operation—Vancouver, B.C., Salem, Ore., Spokane and Tacoma.
With five clubs in the circuit and applications from four others it is considered possible that the league will enlarge to eight teams at the Seattle meeting, President Abel indicated.
TACOMA, Sept. 16—Application of Victoria, B.C., for membership the class B Western International Baseball league was approved by directors meeting here.
Bids for other franchises became so complicated that the directors decided to postpone further action until September 30, when a meeting will be held in Seattle.
Two applications were received to operate in Yakima, one from a group of local businessmen, and the other from Yubi Separovich, business manager of the Sacramento coast league club in behalf of the Solons.
Wenatchee, backed by the St. Louis Cardinals; Bremerton, a surprise contender; and Pasco-Kennewick, the latter by long distance during the meeting, also sought berths.
There are four holdover members from 1942, last year of the league's operation — Vancouver B.C., Salem, Ore., and Spokane and Tacoma in this state.
With five clubs in the circuit and applications from four others it is considered possible that the league will enlarge to eight teams at the Seattle meeting, President Robert Abel indicated.
Accept Victoria Entry in W.I.L.; Colons Make Bid
[Vancouver News-Herald, Sept. 17, 1945]
Victoria Sunday became the second Canadian entry in the Western International Baseball League, which will resume operations next year after a three-year war lapse.
Bid of the Victoria interests, presented by Laurel Harney, well-known puckster and ex-House of David ball player, and William Straith, was accepted at a league meeting in Tacoma on the week-end.
The island city will join Bob Brown’s Vancouver club, Salem, Tacoma and Spokane, the latter four teams being leftovers in the Class B pro loop.
President Bob Abel and the directors were fairly swamped with applications for loop membership, and bidding became so brisk that further action was postponed until Sept. 30, when another meeting will be held in Seattle.
SACRAMENTO INTERESTED
Two applications were received from Yakima interests, one coming from a group of businessmen, and the other from Yubi Separovich, representing the Sacramento team in the Pacific Coast League. Separovich, one of the men who saved the Sacramento franchise when there was talk of moving it here a couple of seasons back, is currently business manager of the Solons.
Wenatchee, which is backed by the St. Louis Cardinals, made a bid as expected; Bremerton was a surprise would-be entrant, and Pasco-Kennewick, who phoned long distance during the meeting, also sought a berth.
Indications were that the loop would expand to eight teams at the Seattle meeting.
Professional Baseball Assured For This City
Victoria Granted Franchise at W.I.B.L. Parley at Tacoma—Many Clubs Seek Entry
[Victoria Colonist, Tuesday, Sept. 18, 1945]
Professional baseball will return to Victoria next Summer.
This was assured Sunday at Tacoma when directors of the Class “B” Western International Baseball League accepted the application of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., for a franchise for this city. The successful bid was presented by W.T. Straith, M.L.A., and Laurel Harney.
With the franchise assured, Harney left immediately for Oakland to carry on negotiations with the officials of the Oakland Pacific Coast League team on the question of a player tie-up.
At Sunday’s parley bid for franchises became so complicated that the directors decided to postpone further action until September 30m when a meeting will be held in Seattle.
Two applications were received to operate in Yakima, one from a group of local businessmen, and the other from Yubi Separovich, business manager of the Sacramento Pacific Coast League club in behalf of the Solons.
Wenatchee, backed by the St. Louis Cardinals, Bremerton, a surprise contender, and Pasco-Kennewick, the latter by long-distance during the weekend, also sought berths.
There are four holdover members from 1942, last year of the league’s operation—Vancouver, B.C., Salem, Ore., Spokane and Tacoma.
With five clubs in the circuit and applications from four others it is considered possible that the league will enlarge to eight teams at the Seattle meeting, President Abel indicated.
Victoria a Lock For WIL in 1946
Pro Baseball Is Practically Assured Here
[Victoria Colonist, Sep. 7, 1945]
Pleased with the enthusiastic response given to the canvass by local businessmen and confident that the $35,000 objective would be reached before the reorganization of the Western International Baseball League on September 16, directors of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., yesterday expressed the opinion that professional baseball is practically assured for this city.
At the same time it was closed that three other cities, Yakima, Wenatchee and Bellingham, are interested in receiving a franchise in the W.I.B.L. However, league members are opposed to an eight-team circuit, and with four teams after the two spots it is apparent that quite a battle looms.
Laurel Harney and J.V. Johnson, directors of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., will attend the baseball parlay and put up a battle to bring professional baseball to this city.
While not wishing to disclose the amount of capital raised, a spokesman stated last night that more than 50 shareholders are already listed with the local organization. “Our plan is to make it an all-Victoria project, and for that reason, we are confining membership to local residents,” the spokesman added.
[Victoria Colonist, Sep. 7, 1945]
Pleased with the enthusiastic response given to the canvass by local businessmen and confident that the $35,000 objective would be reached before the reorganization of the Western International Baseball League on September 16, directors of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., yesterday expressed the opinion that professional baseball is practically assured for this city.
At the same time it was closed that three other cities, Yakima, Wenatchee and Bellingham, are interested in receiving a franchise in the W.I.B.L. However, league members are opposed to an eight-team circuit, and with four teams after the two spots it is apparent that quite a battle looms.
Laurel Harney and J.V. Johnson, directors of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., will attend the baseball parlay and put up a battle to bring professional baseball to this city.
While not wishing to disclose the amount of capital raised, a spokesman stated last night that more than 50 shareholders are already listed with the local organization. “Our plan is to make it an all-Victoria project, and for that reason, we are confining membership to local residents,” the spokesman added.
Victoria Set to Apply For WIL Franchise
Victoria Company Will Sponsor Pro Ball
Local Businessmen Will Finance Club—Will File Incorporation Papers Today
[Victoria Colonist, August 29, 1945]
Plans for the return of professional baseball moved rapidly yesterday with the announcement by W.T. Straith, K.C., one of a group of local businessmen interested in the move, that incorporation papers of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., would be filed today with the registrar of companies at the Parliament Buildings.
Capitalized at $50,000, the company is being formed for the purpose of promotion baseball and other sports, but at the moment is primarily interested in the promotion of a professional baseball team in the Western International Baseball League.
Johnny Johnson, past president of the Chamber of Commerce, acted as chairman at the organization meeting, and Eric Cox has been appointed secretary pro tem. The committee working on the plan to raise $35,000, the amount required to finance a club in the W.I.B.L., comprises five Victoria businessmen.
Following filing of the incorporation papers and other financial moves, the directors will meet to make plans to place the stock of the new company on the market. It was made perfectly clear yesterday that no expenses will involved until Victoria has been assured a franchise in the professional league.
The team will be a local enterprise, finances in its entirety by Victoria capital. Complete organization of officers will follow the final awarding of a franchise to this city.
Next meeting of the W.I.B.L. is slate for September 9 at Tacoma, with President Roger [sic] Abel in charge. Laurel Harney, has been working hard on the Victoria project, and one other member will attend the session.
It was stated here yesterday that President Abel would probably visit the city prior to the meeting to look over the situation here.
Laurel Harney stated last night that negotiations have been carried on with Oakland club of the Pacific Coast Baseball League for a player tie-up, and present indications point to a favorable response. The management of the Oakland team is definitely interested, Harney stated, and Victoria, provided it can get the right kind of a deal, is very anxious to make the connection, the local player added.
Discussions with the city authorities will await the final awarding of the franchise. It has been reported, however, that Victoria has the “inside track” on other cities seeking entry into the loop, and with the work progressed to the present stage professional baseball seems assured for this city in 1946.
Local Businessmen Will Finance Club—Will File Incorporation Papers Today
[Victoria Colonist, August 29, 1945]
Plans for the return of professional baseball moved rapidly yesterday with the announcement by W.T. Straith, K.C., one of a group of local businessmen interested in the move, that incorporation papers of the Victoria Baseball and Athletic Co., Ltd., would be filed today with the registrar of companies at the Parliament Buildings.
Capitalized at $50,000, the company is being formed for the purpose of promotion baseball and other sports, but at the moment is primarily interested in the promotion of a professional baseball team in the Western International Baseball League.
Johnny Johnson, past president of the Chamber of Commerce, acted as chairman at the organization meeting, and Eric Cox has been appointed secretary pro tem. The committee working on the plan to raise $35,000, the amount required to finance a club in the W.I.B.L., comprises five Victoria businessmen.
Following filing of the incorporation papers and other financial moves, the directors will meet to make plans to place the stock of the new company on the market. It was made perfectly clear yesterday that no expenses will involved until Victoria has been assured a franchise in the professional league.
The team will be a local enterprise, finances in its entirety by Victoria capital. Complete organization of officers will follow the final awarding of a franchise to this city.
Next meeting of the W.I.B.L. is slate for September 9 at Tacoma, with President Roger [sic] Abel in charge. Laurel Harney, has been working hard on the Victoria project, and one other member will attend the session.
It was stated here yesterday that President Abel would probably visit the city prior to the meeting to look over the situation here.
Laurel Harney stated last night that negotiations have been carried on with Oakland club of the Pacific Coast Baseball League for a player tie-up, and present indications point to a favorable response. The management of the Oakland team is definitely interested, Harney stated, and Victoria, provided it can get the right kind of a deal, is very anxious to make the connection, the local player added.
Discussions with the city authorities will await the final awarding of the franchise. It has been reported, however, that Victoria has the “inside track” on other cities seeking entry into the loop, and with the work progressed to the present stage professional baseball seems assured for this city in 1946.
Cash Being Raised for Victoria Franchise
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Aug. 23, 1946]
MONEY AVAILABLE HERE FOR PROFESSIONAL BALL
First important step towards the return of professional baseball to this city, that of putting up the required cash, has been taken by interested businessmen, according to the latest reports reaching this department.
From a very reliable source, this scribbler learned yesterday that approximately $50,000—that’s a lot of money—is ready to be laid on the line to guarantee the financing of the Victoria project.
Bob Brown, Vancouver baseball impresario, on his visit here a few weeks ago, told this scribbler that Victoria would have to be prepared to lay $25,000 on the line at the Western International Baseball League meeting next month, in making its application for a franchise.
With the finances available, Victoria’s representatives will attend the reorganization session slated for Tacoma, September 9, with Roger [sic] Abel, president, in the chair. Present plans call for a six-team circuit, an according to all reports Victoria has the inside track on some of the other cities seeking a franchise.
Such a move is understandable when careful consideration and study is given to [unreadable few words] the diamond pastime here in recent years. The Victoria Baseball Association teams played to 100,000 in 1944, and that number, according to Bob Brown, is large enough to support a professional baseball club.
No announcement has been made locally on the player situation, but again Bob Brown insisted that a tie-up with a Pacific Coast league or a major league club would be necessary for Victoria to field a team of the calibre required in the Western International Baseball League.
However, there should be a definite improvement in the player situation now that the war is ended. Many fine ball players are being discharged daily from the United States and Canadian armed forces and with new players coming along there should be no difficulty in securing player material.
Pleasing to most Victorians, we think, will be the announcement that the local entry in the Western International Baseball League will be financed by Victoria businessmen. Victorians have built up their own baseball and when a new venture is planned it certainly is encouraging to see those who live in the city getting behind the project with the required financial assistance.
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Aug. 23, 1946]
MONEY AVAILABLE HERE FOR PROFESSIONAL BALL
First important step towards the return of professional baseball to this city, that of putting up the required cash, has been taken by interested businessmen, according to the latest reports reaching this department.
From a very reliable source, this scribbler learned yesterday that approximately $50,000—that’s a lot of money—is ready to be laid on the line to guarantee the financing of the Victoria project.
Bob Brown, Vancouver baseball impresario, on his visit here a few weeks ago, told this scribbler that Victoria would have to be prepared to lay $25,000 on the line at the Western International Baseball League meeting next month, in making its application for a franchise.
With the finances available, Victoria’s representatives will attend the reorganization session slated for Tacoma, September 9, with Roger [sic] Abel, president, in the chair. Present plans call for a six-team circuit, an according to all reports Victoria has the inside track on some of the other cities seeking a franchise.
Such a move is understandable when careful consideration and study is given to [unreadable few words] the diamond pastime here in recent years. The Victoria Baseball Association teams played to 100,000 in 1944, and that number, according to Bob Brown, is large enough to support a professional baseball club.
No announcement has been made locally on the player situation, but again Bob Brown insisted that a tie-up with a Pacific Coast league or a major league club would be necessary for Victoria to field a team of the calibre required in the Western International Baseball League.
However, there should be a definite improvement in the player situation now that the war is ended. Many fine ball players are being discharged daily from the United States and Canadian armed forces and with new players coming along there should be no difficulty in securing player material.
Pleasing to most Victorians, we think, will be the announcement that the local entry in the Western International Baseball League will be financed by Victoria businessmen. Victorians have built up their own baseball and when a new venture is planned it certainly is encouraging to see those who live in the city getting behind the project with the required financial assistance.
Ruby Rubert Pushes For Victoria in WIL
SPORTS SLANTS
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Aug. 10, 1945]
VICTORIA IS READY FOR PRO BASEBALL
Take it from Robert Brown, Vancouver, one of the best-known and best-versed men on baseball and baseball promotion in the Pacific Northwest. Victoria is ready for professional baseball and could support a club in the Western International League.
The veteran Terminal City baseball [mogul was in the] city yesterday to look things over for President Robert Abel of the Western International Baseball League. He stepped on the Vancouver boat last night convinced that Victoria, a city in which he played ball more than two decades ago, is ready for professional baseball.
“Victoria as a city, and the Royal Athletic Park as a playing field, are both very favourable, and in my opinion, are ready for a team in the Western International League. When I attend the next meeting of the W.I.B.L. early next month and submit my report, it will certainly be very favorable toward Victoria. I shall recommend that this city be granted a franchise,” Brown said last night.
Speaking of the Caledonia Avenue ball lot, Brown said that a few structural changes would be necessary. One thing the Western International League would insist on would be lights, and in this connection the Vancouver baseball mogul noted that Royal Athletic Park would be very easy to light up for night ball.
With a view to lengthening the distance to the centrefield fence, Brown recommended moving back home plate 25 feet and making the distance to the Pembroke Street wall 331 feet. The radio and press boxes would be placed on top of the grandstand, and improved bleacher seating accommodation would be provided along first and third base.
Getting to the required playing strength of a W.I.B.L. team, Brown stated that “for the club to be strong enough to hold its own in this league it would need affiliation with the Coast League, or a major league club, preferably the former. The shorter distance with the head office would be more beneficial,: he added.
The Vancouver mogul favors a six-team circuit, and certainly would like to see Victoria included in the loop which, he is confident, will resume operations in 1946.
As to the Coast League tie-up, Brown felt such a move would be comparatively easy. The only tie-ups at present, according to his statement, are Vancouver with the Seattle Rainiers and Salem with the Portland Beavers.
During his short stay here Brown, in company with Laurel Harney, well-known Victoria player and coach, called on a number of prominent businessmen with the idea of having them finance the club. “The response was very favorable, and at the member a Victoria-owned club looks quite possible,” Brown added.
In the meantime, Harney will carry on the negotiations locally, and when the meeting of the Western International Baseball League is held in Tacoma soon after Labor Day, Victoria will be represented.
All in all, the situation looks very favorable, and at last there appears to be some real action to get Victoria in the professional baseball field. We feel certain Victorians would welcome the move.
By SID THOMAS
[Victoria Colonist, Aug. 10, 1945]
VICTORIA IS READY FOR PRO BASEBALL
Take it from Robert Brown, Vancouver, one of the best-known and best-versed men on baseball and baseball promotion in the Pacific Northwest. Victoria is ready for professional baseball and could support a club in the Western International League.
The veteran Terminal City baseball [mogul was in the] city yesterday to look things over for President Robert Abel of the Western International Baseball League. He stepped on the Vancouver boat last night convinced that Victoria, a city in which he played ball more than two decades ago, is ready for professional baseball.
“Victoria as a city, and the Royal Athletic Park as a playing field, are both very favourable, and in my opinion, are ready for a team in the Western International League. When I attend the next meeting of the W.I.B.L. early next month and submit my report, it will certainly be very favorable toward Victoria. I shall recommend that this city be granted a franchise,” Brown said last night.
Speaking of the Caledonia Avenue ball lot, Brown said that a few structural changes would be necessary. One thing the Western International League would insist on would be lights, and in this connection the Vancouver baseball mogul noted that Royal Athletic Park would be very easy to light up for night ball.
With a view to lengthening the distance to the centrefield fence, Brown recommended moving back home plate 25 feet and making the distance to the Pembroke Street wall 331 feet. The radio and press boxes would be placed on top of the grandstand, and improved bleacher seating accommodation would be provided along first and third base.
Getting to the required playing strength of a W.I.B.L. team, Brown stated that “for the club to be strong enough to hold its own in this league it would need affiliation with the Coast League, or a major league club, preferably the former. The shorter distance with the head office would be more beneficial,: he added.
The Vancouver mogul favors a six-team circuit, and certainly would like to see Victoria included in the loop which, he is confident, will resume operations in 1946.
As to the Coast League tie-up, Brown felt such a move would be comparatively easy. The only tie-ups at present, according to his statement, are Vancouver with the Seattle Rainiers and Salem with the Portland Beavers.
During his short stay here Brown, in company with Laurel Harney, well-known Victoria player and coach, called on a number of prominent businessmen with the idea of having them finance the club. “The response was very favorable, and at the member a Victoria-owned club looks quite possible,” Brown added.
In the meantime, Harney will carry on the negotiations locally, and when the meeting of the Western International Baseball League is held in Tacoma soon after Labor Day, Victoria will be represented.
All in all, the situation looks very favorable, and at last there appears to be some real action to get Victoria in the professional baseball field. We feel certain Victorians would welcome the move.
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