Woodstock, Ontario — Woodstock Minor Ball Association (WMBA) is proud to officially announce that the Woodstock Nationals Fastball Program has become part of the Woodstock Minor Ball Association. This milestone represents an important step forward in WMBA’s long-term vision to strengthen baseball and fastball opportunities for youth in our community through a unified, sustainable, and inclusive organization.

Woodstock has a deep history as a fastball community, with the sport once playing a prominent role in the city before gradually declining locally—despite remaining strong in many surrounding rural communities. The formation of the Woodstock Nationals marked an important step in reintroducing girls fastball opportunities within the city, helping to rebuild awareness and participation. By bringing the Nationals under the WMBA umbrella, the association is reinforcing its commitment to revitalizing girls fastball in Woodstock and creating a clear pathway for future growth. As part of this effort, WMBA intends to collaborate closely with the South Oxford Softball League (SOSL) to grow participation, increase the number of teams, and further strengthen girls fastball development across the region.

A Strategic Step Toward a Stronger Future

This integration aligns directly with WMBA’s long-term vision and strategy, which focuses on building a single, well-governed organization that supports multiple pathways for athletes across baseball and fastball. By unifying programs under one association, WMBA can better coordinate resources, facilities, volunteers, and development initiatives—while maintaining the unique identity and culture of each program.

The Woodstock Nationals Fastball Program will now operate as part of WMBA’s broader portfolio of programs, alongside House League Baseball, Rep Baseball (Woodstock Wranglers), and emerging high-performance initiatives. This structure allows WMBA to support athletes from early skill development through competitive play, while creating clear pathways for both baseball and fastball participants.

Benefits for Players, Families, and the Community

The merger provides several important benefits for players and families, including:

• Long-term program stability and continuity
• Stronger governance and organizational support
• Shared access to facilities, equipment, and development resources
• Improved coordination of coaching development and volunteer support

Honouring the Nationals Program

WMBA recognizes and sincerely appreciates the leadership, volunteers, coaches, players, and families who have supported and contributed to the Woodstock Nationals Fastball Program since its inception. Their commitment and belief in rebuilding girls competitive fastball opportunities in Woodstock have been instrumental in laying the foundation for the program’s future. The Nationals name, identity, and fastball focus will continue to be celebrated as part of WMBA’s programming as the association works to grow and strengthen girls fastball in the community.

Looking Ahead

As WMBA continues to evolve, this step reflects a commitment to proactive planning, collaboration, and long-term thinking. By working together as one association, WMBA is better positioned to grow participation, invest in facilities and development, and serve the Woodstock community in partnership with the City of Woodstock for generations to come.

More details about program operations, registration, and future initiatives will be shared in the coming months.

Together, we are building a stronger future for baseball and fastball in Woodstock.