Baseball park named in honour of P.E.I. native Don McDougall

A new baseball park and recreation venue at the Mill River Resort in Woodstock, P.E.I., is being named in honour of Don McDougall. (Source: Government of Prince Edward Island)

A new baseball park and recreation venue at the Mill River Resort in Woodstock, P.E.I., is being named in honour of Don McDougall, a key figure in establishing the Toronto Blue Jays and known for his passion for baseball and dedication to his community.

The new park will include a fenced turf baseball field, dugouts, bullpens, plus a 600-metre walking track, and two outdoor green gym spaces, according to a news release from the province.

“Baseball has always been a huge passion of mine. We are so delighted to enhance the sport for western P.E.I. with this project,” says McDougall in the release.

“I am incredibly grateful for everyone who has worked on this and excited for what the future brings. This new facility will give the opportunity for players, coaches and spectators to enjoy baseball, keep healthy, and develop life-long friendships with their peers.”

Baseball PEI plans to host large-scale ball tournaments at the park in hopes of bringing more visitors to the island.

“This baseball park will bring people together, forging social bonds within our communities, among youth, friends, and families, while also attracting visitors to the province,” says Ernie Hudson, minister of Transportation and Infrastructure on behalf of the Honourable Zack Bell, Minister of Fisheries, Tourism, Sport and Culture in the release.

“Giving youth the opportunity to play sports is essential for their growth. As baseball’s popularity continues to rise in West Prince, supporting the game and the athletes it nurtures becomes even more important. I am proud to stand with all the dedicated and passionate partners who are making this project a reality.”

Baseball PEI aims to throw the first pitch at the park in August.

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