Watch Party secret revealed: Clarington awarded Jays Care Foundation Field of Dreams grant funding

The sport of baseball is thriving in Clarington, and we’re thrilled to announce that the Municipality has been selected as one of this year’s recipients of Jays Care Foundation’s Field of Dreams grant, made possible by TD. The grant funding—nearly $110,000—will support much-needed upgrades to the hardball diamond at Soper Creek Park in Bowmanville.

“This is a home run for Clarington! Just ask any Major Leaguer, and I bet they fell in love with the sport on their hometown ball diamond. This is where players learn teamwork, celebrate their victories, and dust themselves off after losses. It’s where we create memories and build community,” said Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster. “We’re lucky to be upgrading this site. Construction is kicking off really soon. We can’t wait to see everyone play on our revamped ball diamond. A huge thank you to the Jays Care Foundation from all our ball players and the entire community.”

Councillor Sami Elhajjeh, Regional Councillor Willie Woo, Mayor Adrian Foster, MPP Todd McCarthy, and Councillor Margaret Zwart attend Clarington’s Watch Party for the Field of Dreams grant announcement.

Thanks to the generosity of Jays Care Foundation, this funding will support Clarington’s efforts to build safe, inclusive spaces for youth. Planned improvements include new players’ benches, a new backstop, improved surface grading, and covered dugouts that provide players with shade and shelter from the rain. These enhancements will improve safety, comfort, and the overall playing experience for both local athletes and visiting teams.

The exciting announcement was revealed during a community Watch Party on Sunday, May 4, where the event hall at Garnet B. Rickard Recreation Complex was packed with Clarington’s enthusiastic baseball community. Over 500 passionate baseball fans, young athletes, and residents from across the municipality came out to share their community spirit as Clarington was recognized live on national television as one of this year’s Field of Dreams grant recipients. It was a true community moment—and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who came out to share in the excitement.

Watch the reaction from Clarington residents as they learn Clarington will receive a Jays Care Grant.

Community members enjoyed baseball-themed inflatables, face painting, noisemakers and more as they waited for the big announcement.

Construction at Soper Creek Park, located at 133 Simpson Avenue in Bowmanville, is set to begin later this year and will reopen in time for the 2026 baseball season. Follow @ClaringtonConnected on social media to get news, photos and progress updates on this exciting project.

Media inquiries:
Municipality of Clarington
Leanne Walker
Acting Communications Manager
905-623-3379 ext. 2217 or lwalker@clarington.net