YMCA and Brantford Red Sox Hit a Home Run with Community Partnership

August 3 marks the first YMCA Day at the Ballpark in Brantford—a celebration of community, sport, and shared values between two local institutions.

It’s not every day your community sports team is led by someone whose life inspired a hit TV character. But Brantford Red Sox owner Terry Smith, also known as the real-life inspiration behind Ted Lasso, is no ordinary team owner.

A former NFL player, multi-time national and European champion coach, and founder of multiple teams across continents, Smith is known not just for building winning rosters—but for building people up. His philosophy, like the Ted Lasso mantra, is simple and powerful: Believe.

“We instantly saw alignment in how Terry leads—with heart, humility, and an unwavering focus on community,” says Genevieve Hladysh, Vice President of Health, Fitness Aquatics and Residence. “He’s not just a great coach—he’s an exceptional human being. Working with him has been an absolute joy.” 

A natural fit

The partnership started as a practical one—Red Sox players live in the Wilfrid Laurier University Residences during the season; they need a place to train, and Laurier Brantford YMCA is right next door.

“It was perfect,” says Smith. “The first thing we did when the players arrived was get them training at the Y. Every day they’re in there—lifting, swimming, running, shooting hoops. It’s become their second home.”

But what started with gym access quickly grew into something more meaningful.

“I’ve been around a lot of YMCAs over the years,” Smith explains, “but I’ve never seen one as beautiful, or as full of heart, as the one in Brantford. The staff are just tremendous people. Kind, upbeat, and welcoming. It’s a joy for our players to be there.”

That shared sense of purpose—caring for others, strengthening community, supporting youth—made the connection between the two organizations feel like more than just convenience. It felt like alignment.

“We both believe in doing good, first and foremost,” Smith says. “Winning is great—but if we can positively impact the lives of kids and families? That’s everything.” 

Take me out to the ballgame

That shared vision is taking centre field on August 3 at Arnold Anderson Stadium, when the Brantford Red Sox host the Hamilton Cardinals for YMCA Day at the Ballpark—an afternoon of fun, family, and community spirit.

YMCA staff and members are invited to attend the free game, with a day packed full of activities that go beyond baseball. From in-game contests and giveaways to kids' games, player meet-and-greets, and YMCA shoutouts, the Red Sox are rolling out the red carpet for their newest community partner.

“We do a lot at our games,” says Smith. “We bring kids onto the field for the anthem, we run competitions between innings, we make sure families feel like they’re part of the team. And on August 3, we’re going all out—with YMCA families front and centre.”

“This isn’t just a ballgame,” says Hladysh. “It’s a celebration of two organizations that care deeply about young people, wellness, and belonging. It’s a way to bring people together, have some fun, and cheer each other on.”

A shared future

For Smith, the partnership is about more than one event—it’s the start of something lasting. 

“This is the first big thing we’ve done together,” he says, “but I truly believe it won’t be the last. The YMCA and the Red Sox—we’re just built the same way. We care. We serve. We believe in people. That’s what it’s all about.”

Hladysh agrees: “This is just the beginning. There’s so much potential for us to collaborate—through youth programs, camps, and community outreach. We truly want to keep building on this partnership.”

YMCA Day at the Ballpark is more than a game; it’s a reminder of what’s possible when people come together—with kindness, joy, and a shared belief in something bigger than themselves.

As Terry Smith would say: BELIEVE.

#ShineOn #YMCA #BrantfordRedSox #IgnitePotential #YSavesLives

Join us on August 3 for a day of community and baseball—it's FREE! We can't wait to see you there.

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