Before I sign off for the last time as president, I’d like to share a few words from the bottom of my heart.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have grown up as part of this extraordinary club and to have made lifelong friends along the way. When I first started playing U14s many years ago, I had the privilege of sharing a diamond with Meagan and Kirsty. I vividly remember our parents volunteering and dedicating their time to build the foundations of our great club. Some of us now have the special joy of watching our own children play here, forming bonds and memories, the third generation of Ejays!

My journey with this club began in 1991, and in 1999, I was honoured to step into the role of president at just 19 years old. Ejays has always been more than just a club to me; it’s been a family, a community, a second home. Over these 26 years, I have laughed with you, cried with you, celebrated victories, and supported each other through challenges. We’ve seen the club grow, shrink, and evolve. We’ve proudly represented at the international World Masters Games, and we've shared life’s milestones—weddings, funerals, births, and losses. Many friends have come and gone, but the bonds we've built have endured.

I am immensely proud of what Ejays has become - especially in recent years, where it has become the backbone of the Knox association. While other clubs have depleted, and some met their demise, Ejays has remained strong, inclusive, and vibrant. We’ve cultivated a place where boys and girls, men and women, young and old, of all skill levels, can come together and feel they belong. That’s the true spirit of our Family Club.

Throughout my tenure, there have been successes and setbacks, friendships forged and lessons learned. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: our love for softball. If I may leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this - we are not bigger than the sport. We are its custodians. We come together for many reasons, but ultimately, it’s the game and the community that binds us.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your passion, dedication, and for making this club what it is today. I am proud to pass the baton to a new leadership team, confident that Ejays will continue to thrive. I look forward to remaining involved and supporting the club’s future successes.

Here’s to many more years of friendship, growth, and softball. Wishing all of you the very best as you carry this wonderful club forward.

Yours in softball

Mark Rigg

Mark Rigg

PRESIDENT

LILYDALE EJAYS SOFTBALL CLUB INC.