EDWARDSBURGH CARDINAL – Edwardsburgh Cardinal Mayor Tory Deschamps and Council proudly recognized the Johnstown Jewels U15 Girls Softball Team at a special Scroll Presentation held on September 8, 2025, at Town Hall in Spencerville.
The team, wearing their signature purple uniforms, captured the 2025 Provincial Championship title after triumphing in six consecutive games. Their remarkable achievement was celebrated with a commemorative scroll and official proclamation declaring August 24, 2026, as “Johnstown Jewels Day” in Edwardsburgh Cardinal.
The Johnstown Jewels U15 Girls Softball Team has become a symbol of excellence, resilience, and unity for Edwardsburgh Cardinal. Their victory at the Ontario Provincial Championship in Milton on August 24, 2025, is a historic accomplishment that reflects the best of local youth sports.
The team consists of: #4 Marisa Latimer; #6 Aubrey Webb; #8 Morgan Simpson; #10 Chloe Ault; #11 Lilian Mayer; #13 Lizzy Hernandez; #15 Jayden Vandervelde; #18 Taylor Simpson; #24 Charla Chenier; #29 Lily Carkner; #31 Reese Dedekker; and #57 Grace Elliott. The coaches are: Jason Ault, Paul Dedekker, and Kelly Vandervelde
The evening featured special presentations not only from Mayor Deschamps and Council, but also from MPP Steve Clark, who presented a scroll on behalf of the Province.
“Wonderful celebration of a remarkable accomplishment at the Township of Edwardsburgh/Cardinal council last night. Honoured to join Mayor Tory Deschamps and council in recognizing the Jewels Softball Team – Ontario’s Under-15 Girls gold medal champs!” said MPP Steve Clark. “Congrats to the players & coaches for their incredible performance on the field, and to the parents & sponsors who helped make their amazing success possible!” He also shared greetings from MP Michael Barrett, delivering a certificate of recognition on his behalf.
In turn, the team presented a commemorative team print celebrating their championship win to Mike Limburg, long-time organizer and registration coordinator for Johnstown house league teams.
“Tonight, we celebrate not only a championship win but also the teamwork, perseverance, and community pride these athletes represent,” said Mayor Deschamps. “The Johnstown Jewels have inspired all of us with their hard work and dedication, and we are proud to call them champions.”
The proclamation recognizes the role of coaches, families, and supporters whose guidance and encouragement helped the team reach this milestone. It also encourages all residents to wear purple and gold on Johnstown Jewels Day to show support for the athletes and celebrate the power of youth, sport, and community pride.
Council members and community guests joined the celebration, enjoying cinnamon buns from the Village Pantry, a local favourite.
Residents will have another opportunity to cheer on the champions during the Spencerville Fair Parade this Saturday, September 13, where the Jewels will proudly sport their gold medals.
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