Written By Olena Riznyk
NORTH MIDDLESEX – Brad McLeod, President of North Middlesex Minor Baseball, and Jen Trudell, the organization’s treasurer, presented a proposal to council to transform the Lieury Ball Diamond into a dedicated girls’ fastball field, aptly named “Skeeter Park,” in memory of former player and coach Greg Thompson. Both McLeod and Trudell have been deeply involved in Minor Ball for many years and passionately conveyed the community’s desire to honor the legacy of baseball and fastball in the region.
The Lieury Ball Diamond has a long-standing history as a central venue for minor baseball and both men’s and women’s fastball. However, in recent years, its use has declined, and the NMMBA is determined to revitalize it. The association’s goal is to ensure that all four local diamonds are bustling with activity every night throughout the summer, offering children across North Middlesex a vibrant sports environment.
The NMMBA’s proposal seeks to establish the Lieury Diamond as a dedicated home field for girls’ fastball teams, drawing inspiration from similar initiatives like the Exeter Extreme Diamond. The renamed “Skeeter Park” would provide a space for girls to develop their fastball skills.
They emphasized the importance of creating a dedicated space for girls’ fastball, allowing them to take ownership of the field and fostering a sense of pride and community. The proposal also includes plans to update the existing signage at the diamond. Currently known as “McGillivray Memorial Park,” the new signs would reflect the “Skeeter Park” name and logo, with a smaller additional sign to honor Greg Thompson’s memory.
The NMMBA has committed to fully funding the new signage, with costs estimated to be under $1,000. The association has already obtained one quote and is awaiting a second to ensure the pricing is reasonable. They plan to collaborate with a printer to match the current sign’s dimensions and style, ensuring a seamless transition. While the NMMBA has requested the municipality’s assistance with installing the new signs, they are also prepared to rely on volunteers from the minor ball community if necessary. McLeod reassured the council that any further enhancements would be covered through fundraising efforts, with no additional financial burden on the municipality.
With unanimous backing from council, the motion to rename the Lieury Diamond as “Skeeter Park” was passed. Mayor Rob praised the initiative, noting that it reflects the community’s commitment to preserving its sports heritage while investing in the future.
