

Chuck Kuepfer – Staff Reporter, Elmira Independent
Ben Wideman is pumped.
Wideman has been selected to Canada’s men’s national softball team, and will represent his country at the Pan American championships in Mexico next month.
“You can’t get any higher as far as fastball goes,” said the Elmira native, who plays outfield on the national squad. “This is like the NHL kind of thing for us.”
Canada will be one of a number of countries from North, Central and South America in the mix at the VIII Pan American Men’s Softball Championships, which also serve as a qualifier for the World’s in 2013.
Hermosillo, Mexico is hosting the Pan American tournament that runs Nov. 18-26.
Wideman, who currently plays with the Owen Sound Selects men’s senior team, has been playing competitive ball since he was 13 years old.
His previous international experience includes seven months in Australia, which was the highlight of his softball playing days.
That was until he was informed of his selection to the national squad.
“I was not expecting that kind of call,” said Wideman. “I’m beyond exited.”