In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1985. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: Coming into the 1985 season, Whistler Beer League organizer Terry Boston introduced a few rule changes to make slo-pitch games “less all-out competitive and easier to referee.” One of these rules was to “prohibit men who also play organized fastball from playing in the beer league.” The season was expected to start on May 20 and include sixteen teams.
Question: Do you agree with the ruling that a fastball player cannot play in this summer’s beer league?
Ken Hardy – Co-owner Whistler Heliskiing – Brio
I’m ambivalent. My own feeling is that anyone should be able to play in the Beer League. But I can understand the view that they want to keep it fun. If the top players are going to flood the league, you end up with it being too competitive.
Jan Simpson – Realtor – Alta Vista
I think it is a good ruling. They are two different leagues for two different calibre of players. If they had too many high calibre players, it would be too competitive. I think it should remain a fun league.
Mae Wilson – Homemaker – Alpine Meadows
Personally, I don’t think it’s a problem for the men because there are enough players for the teams. But for the Whistler K’s (the women’s fastball team) we cannot find enough players that can come out for every game. Women have had to make a choice between the Beer League and Whistler K’s.