The incredible story of the 1971 Waterford Mott’s Canadettes actually began in 1970 when Stan Mott was approached to sponsor one player of the team. Instead he sponsored the entire team and the journey began.

The initial season saw the team achieve moderate success under the direction of coaches Herb White, Winston Botting and Erv Depner.

In only their second year the team took off lead by coaches Matt and Frank Menich. These talented young women jelled on and off the field to become the talk of Waterford and area.

The team was made up of 18 girls of various ages from 16 – 35. When asked why he kept so many on the team, Matt replied that he could not turn away local girls who really wanted to play. As it turned out all 18 were needed. The Canadettes, involved in both league and provincial play-offs, were made to play two different play-off games in one night 100 miles apart. Not playing would mean forfeiting a series so nine player went to Sebringville and nine went to Stevensville. Both games were lost but they were the only losses in either series.

Because of their aggressive play, their solid fundamental skills and the excitement they brought to every park they played in, the Canadettes soon became respected and admired throughout South Western Ontario. At the Audrey Hellyer Ball Diamond, they were the toast of Waterford.

In 1971 the amazing Waterford Mott’s Canadettes became Niagara and District League champions and Provincial Women’s Softball Union champions.

 For this they are being inducted into the Norfolk County Sports Hall of recognition.

Team members are:

 By Don Stewart

October 2006