The AA Mosquito Thornhill Reds baseball team was recognized at the City?s last Council meeting as the 2009 Ontario Baseball Association Champions.

?This is a wonderful achievement,? said Mayor Linda Jackson. ?The success of our young people is something we can all celebrate. Competitive sports provide the opportunity to learn about teamwork and fair play. Congratulations to the team!?

The team was formed in 2006 when four boys decided to play up one age level to help create a senior rookie ball team for the Thornhill Reds. Their parents became the coaches. The focus was on having fun, while learning the game. In 2007, the team was Rookie York Simcoe Baseball Association Champions and Oakridge Tournament Champions. In 2008, they were Aurora Tournament Champions. This year they were also Niagara Falls Tournament Champions and Bolton Tournament Champions.

"The success of this team is due not only to the commitment and of the players, but also to the dedication of the team coaching staff, team managers and parents," said Ward 4 Councillor Sandra Yeung Racco. "It takes a lot of hard work to form a championship season, and this entire team worked together to achieve their goals."