Photos: Scott Young
Wilson Babineau, a grade nine student from Huntsville High School, is a pitcher and first baseman for the Muskoka Hornets Bantam Rep A team.
Wilson got his start at the age of five when he began playing t-ball. He enjoys the team sport aspect of the game.
Wilson exemplifies what a good player and teammate is all about. “He maintains a positive and supportive demeanour whatever the situation brings,” says his Hornets coach, Gunnar Mullar. “He works hard at constantly improving and cares about how his skills and performance can best help out his team.”
Wilson says his most memorable moment from the 2018 ball season so far was when he was diving and catching a line-drive at first base for his team’s final out when playing against Barrie.
“He has always been a very good contact hitter and is expanding his power as he grows bigger and stronger,” says Coach Gunnar. “He is becoming an excellent first baseman with a nimble glove and good instincts as well as an effective ‘southpaw’ (left-handed) pitcher.” These strengths were part of the reason why he and his team brought home the silver medal at the 2017 Provincial Championships.
“Wilson is a true pleasure to know and coach,” adds Coach Gunnar.
The feeling is mutual. “Coach Gunnar is the most dedicated and selfless coach I know,” says Wilson. “He has volunteered and coached me since the beginning. I would like to thank him for his dedication to the team and the sport.”
Wilson is thinking about the future and wants to see where the game of baseball may take him. “A scholarship might be one of those places hopefully,” he says.
This local Hornets player is one to watch.
Come out and cheer on Wilson and the Hornets Select teams when they host the 10th annual Muskoka Cup tournament from July 20-22. Huntsville games will be played on the diamonds at McCulley Robertson.
Wilson Babineau is safe at home during a game in Thornbury
Wilson Babineau (right) defends first base at a game in Thornbury
To read about Doppler’s previous Athletes of the Week, click here.
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Very nice to see some coverage on Baseball. With most our tax dollars spent on making ice and up keep on the arena, this is very refreshing to see. Played Minor Baseball in the 1950’s, and had a lot of fun. Then all of sudden there wasn’t any baseball offered. I asked why? Jim Bishop came to town and all our money went to Lacrosse and Hockey. Gee thanks a lot.