Team Spotlight: Venosta Shamrocks Bring Depth and Tradition to GVA Men’s Ball League

VENOSTA, QUEBEC – April 26, 2025 – The GVA Men’s Ball League is just under two weeks away from opening night, and the Venosta Shamrocks are ready to step onto Redhawk Field with a roster stacked with talent, a legacy steeped in family tradition, and a fiery determination that’ll make their opener unmissable. This team combines depth, experience, and generational pride, making them a force to watch in the half-whip showdown.

Leadership on the Diamond

The Venosta Shamrocks are led by Derek Kealey, who’s steering the ship for the 2025 campaign. Derek has assembled a powerhouse roster, drawing on his deep understanding of the game and the community. “He’s built a team that’s ready to compete,” says league organizer Scott Mahoney. With Derek at the helm, the Shamrocks are poised for a strong showing this summer.

Roster and Key Players

The Shamrocks’ roster is a deep well of talent:

• Austin Mahoney
• Bryan Kealey
• Derek Kealey
• Eric Skyba
• Garth McLaughlin
• Ghislain Talbot
• Graham Ramstead
• Jamie Mayo
• Jesse O’Connor
• John Mahoney
• Matthew McLaughlin
• Pat O’Connor
• Riley McLaughlin
• Riley Teed
• Sam McLaughlin
• Scott Mahoney
• Shane Kealey

A contingent of Paugan Falls Rapids players—Bryan Kealey, Eric Skyba, John Mahoney, Sam McLaughlin, and Garth McLaughlin—add a competitive edge, bringing their hockey grit to the diamond.

Players to Watch

Fans should keep an eye on these Shamrocks standouts:

• Jamie Mayo: A consistent half-whip pitcher with decades of experience, Mayo’s pitching will be a cornerstone for Venosta, keeping opposing batters on their toes.
• Pat O’Connor: An elite fastball player in the Ottawa area for years, O’Connor is the league’s most seasoned shortstop. His steady glove and consistent bat make him a crucial piece.
• John Mahoney: A former USports baseball player at Carleton University, Mahoney is an elite backcatcher. His strong arm will shut down base stealers, and his powerful batting will be a threat.

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Shamrocks’ biggest strength is their depth. This team is loaded with experienced players, with key positions like pitcher (Mayo), shortstop (O’Connor), and catcher (Mahoney) locked down, making Venosta a contender from day one. However, their large lineup could be a double-edged sword. It might be tough for players to get enough at-bats and fielding looks to stay sharp, which leaner teams might exploit. The Shamrocks will need to manage their depth wisely to stay competitive.

Team History and Legacy

Venosta boasts a long, storied ball tradition, with the field beside the local school serving as a community hub for decades. Every August long weekend, Venosta families gather for the annual clan tournament—a spirited 3-pitch tournament pitting families against each other. Many of this year’s Shamrocks honed their skills in that tournament, carrying on a generational legacy. Ball in Venosta is a tradition passed down through families, with the fathers of these players—and their fathers before them—having played on the same fields. That deep-rooted history fuels the Shamrocks, adding extra fire to their 2025 season.

Uniforms, Logo, and Colors

The Venosta Shamrocks will take the field in green jerseys with yellow accents, paired with matching green ball caps. The design is a clear nod to Venosta’s historical colors and brand, reflecting their deep community roots while giving the team a sharp, unified look under the Redhawk Field lights.

Why They Matter

The Venosta Shamrocks aren’t just a team—they’re a living testament to the Valley’s ball heritage, with a roster built to compete and a tradition that spans generations. With depth, experience, and key players at critical positions, they’re a top contender in the GVA Men’s Ball League. Can they keep their large lineup sharp and leverage their talent to dominate? When the Shamrocks face off against Danford on May 9, Venosta pride—and a storied rivalry—will be on full display.

Fans can follow the Shamrocks’ journey on the GVA Men’s Ball League’s Facebook and Instagram pages. First pitch is just weeks away—get ready for a summer of half-whip heat!