PRESS RELEASE: GVA Men’s Half-Whip Ball League Announced for Summer 2025

LOW, QUEBEC – March 14, 2025 – Batter up! The Gatineau Valley is about to get a whole lot livelier this summer, thanks to Scott Mahoney, the driving force behind the newly minted GVA Men’s Ball League. With competitive spirit surging in the region, Mahoney saw an opportunity to bring high-calibre ball back to local men—and he’s delivering it with a twist: half-whip pitching.

Inspired by the recent resurgence of senior hockey with the Paugan Falls Rapids—stirring up old rivalries with neighboring towns—Mahoney tapped into the area’s growing appetite for local sports. “There’s a lot of excitement around here,” Mahoney says. “The hockey buzz got us thinking: why not give guys a chance to swing for the fences too?” The result? A league that’s already locked in six teams: Brennan's Hill, Rupert, Kazabazua, Kitigan Zibi, Venosta, and Danford. “With this mix, the competition’s going to be fierce,” Mahoney predicts.

For the uninitiated, half-whip ball isn’t your grandpa’s softball. Pitchers ditch the full-whip windup of traditional fastball for a shoulder-down motion, leveling the playing field and keeping games tight. “It’s the perfect format to ensure every at-bat counts,” Mahoney explains. Think strategic showdowns, not just slugfests.

The action is expected to kick off on May 9 at Redhawk Field in Low, Quebec—nestled behind the arena and Heritage Hall. Games will run Friday nights through the summer, with three back-to-back matchups most weeks, wrapping up with playoffs expected to be completed before Labour Day weekend. “It’s going to be a summer of ball under the lights,” Mahoney says, grinning.

This league is built for local men and those with ties to the area, with team reps encouraged to rally the best talent they can find. “The calibre will be solid,” Mahoney says, “but it’s not just for veterans. If you’ve got some experience and a passion for ball, you’ll fit right in—this is about competition and heart.

Mahoney’s big vision? “Bring back the love for ball in the Gatineau Valley and unite the community on Friday nights in Low. The competition and fun? That’s the cherry on top.” With six teams already confirmed, he’s off to a roaring start.

Fans can track the league’s progress on Facebook and Instagram or hit up the website, www.gvamensball.com for the latest. The GVA Men’s Ball League is ready to knock it out of the park—don’t miss the first pitch!

Contact:
Scott Mahoney
scottmahoney99@gmail.com