As summer arrives on Haida Gwaii, so does a cherished tradition among local softball enthusiasts — the exhilarating Hell Week.
This extended showcase of softball skills kicks off with the eagerly awaited Hospital Day Tournament. So begins a 12-day week with 10 days of thrilling competition.
On Thursday, June 20, teams from across the islands gather at the Daajing Giids diamond, each eager to make their mark.
Leading the charge are the Warriors, defending champions determined to uphold their title amidst fierce rivalry.
For those unable to attend in person, the Haida Gwaii Radio Society ensures no one misses the action, broadcasting every pivotal moment live on Saturday, thanks to Dwyer Cross’ play-by-play and the dedicated radio team.
“We are setting up a booth and broadcasting all day,” said Cross.
Following the Hospital Day Tournament, the spotlight shifts to the league playoffs: a four-day battle from Tuesday through Friday.
The Warriors, riding high on previous successes, will strive to extend their dominance for a second consecutive year.
Josh Wesley, a seasoned Warrior, reflects on their current season, saying confidently, “We’re currently at the top of the league standings this year, making a strong push towards our ultimate goal—the league championship.”
Damon Fladmark of the Traitors meanwhile emphasizes the parity in the league. “It’s really tough to say who is our team’s biggest challenge, when you have teams with championship pedigree in the Grinders and Warriors, and the new up and coming teams such as the Cousins and Sons of Pitchers” he said.
But the intensity doesn’t stop there. Immediately after the league playoffs, teams head to Port Clements for the Canada Days Tournament: a three-day extravaganza promising even more heart-pounding action.
Among the tournament’s highlights are the thrilling men’s and women’s home-run derbies, where power hitters like Hyland, Fladmark, Jones, Lowther, and the Pearson brothers prepare to demonstrate their long-ball prowess.
Josh Wesley anticipates tough competition in the derby, particularly highlighting Hyland’s consistency.
“Hyland and the Pearson brothers had some epic battles in last year’s derbies,” he said.
Sam Ismay echoed the sentiment.
“Hyland has been a long-ball guy since the day he was born I bet! Came out swinging! As long as I have been on island, Hyland has crushed them.”
Looking ahead, Sam Ismay is optimistic about the softball on Haida Gwaii.
“The future is bright!” he said. “Lots of teams are supporting and bringing up the next generation of players and that’s always great to see.”