By IAN WILSON
The Regina Red Sox have announced plans to honour a trailblazing Saskatchewan baseball team.
The Western Canadian Baseball League (WCBL) club unveiled details of a tribute game that will put a spotlight on the accomplishments of the Indian Head Rockets, a team comprised entirely of African American and Latino players.
The Rockets began play in 1950 and this year marks the 75th anniversary of the squad taking the field in Indian Head, Saskatchewan, which is located 70 kilometres east of Regina.
“The Regina Red Sox are honoured to celebrate the Indian Head Rockets’ legacy,” said Regina Red Sox President Gary Brotzel in a press release.
“Their contributions to baseball and Saskatchewan’s sports history deserve recognition, and we are excited to share this moment with our fans.”
The Rockets tribute game, a partnership with the Indian Head Museum, is set to take place at 7 p.m. on June 11th at Currie Field, where the Red Sox will host the Swift Current 57’s.
Nat Bates and Willie Reed, who were both players on the Rockets, are planning to attend the game, and Red Sox players will wear limited edition 75th anniversary hats that feature the logo of the Indian Head Rockets.
“Celebrating history at a Currie Field allows us to connect past and present in meaningful ways,” said Robyn Jensen, the vice president of the Indian Head Museum.
“Honouring the Indian Head Rockets at a live baseball game not only acknowledges their incredible contributions to the sport but also ensures that their story continues to inspire new generations of fans.”
The Indian Head Museum will have a table at the game that will display photographs and highlights of key Rockets players.
Commemorative baseballs will be distributed to young fans in attendance, and special baseball card sets will also be available for purchase.
In addition, the Red Sox will share historical information about the Rockets on their social media channels to educate and engage Saskatchewan baseball fans.
“The Indian Head Rockets made history in the 1950s, competing in Saskatchewan and Western Canada and breaking racial barriers in baseball. Their legacy of perseverance, skill, and sportsmanship helped shape the province’s baseball culture. The Red Sox are thrilled to recognize this remarkable team and share their story with fans,” stated the Red Sox in their press release.
“This special night of baseball and history will unite fans, players, and historians to commemorate a team that left a lasting mark on the game.”
Tales of Baseball 