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 Clayton
Monaghan's participation in the sports community of Falun dates back to
1938. For 2more than twenty-five years, Clayton played on several
softball teams and is described as an outstanding pitcher.
He coached the Falun Ladies' Softball team 1942 ‑ 1949. In the
mid‑1960's, Clayton initiated, and was the driving force behind, the
Falun Minor Ball Program.
"I
have always liked ball. It's a non‑contact, very low injury sport.
It doesn't have major expenses. And, most important, many kids and
adults are able to play the game."
The
minor ball program grew from one team to over ten, involving over 200
athletes. The program became one of the best in Alberta. The "field of
dandelions" became a Fastball Facility with well‑groomed diamonds,
player benches, back‑stops, fencing, and bleachers. There was a
recruitment of volunteers to coach and to help in various other ways.
Coaching clinics at various skill levels were held and fund‑raising
programs were created. The program was widely supported by those living
in the Falun community.
In 1968,
with Clayton Monaghan as coach and Keith Anderson as co‑coach, the Falun
Juvenile Playboys won the Provincial Championship. This was the first of
many. In 20 years, teams from Falun won a total of 39 Provincial
Championships. Between 1968 and the time he stopped coaching to
commit to his duties as County councillor on a full‑time basis, Clayton
coached five boys' teams to Provincial Championships, and four of these
won second place honours.
RECOGNITION AWARDS
1988 ‑ AASA
Sports Hall of Fame
1996 ‑
Falun Community League
Recognition Certificate 50 Years of
Continuous and Dedicated Service
2005 WRFSD and County of Wetaskiwin
‑ Clayton Monaghan Athletic Field
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