Cactus Rats to play first-ever game at Energy City Metro Ballpark

SPRUCE GROVE -- The new Energy City Metro Ballpark has been given the stamp of approval from the Western Canadian Baseball League.

The new venue, which has been the subject of major delays over the past year, is now ready to host a game for the first time when the Cactus Rats take on the Okotoks Dawgs on Thursday, June 17. This comes after a formal decision regarding play at the new ballpark was rendered at the WCBL's Board of Governors' meeting on June 16. 

"We have seen the progress made by the Cactus Rats organization over the last number of days with fulfilling facility and league obligations, as well as the presentation of a plan to carry out the ballpark project to completion," said WCBL President Kevin Kvame. "For the good of the league, we feel it is important to give the Cactus Rats organization enough runway to do that."

The decision states that the Energy City Metro Ballpark's field of play meets the minimum standards of the league, which will allow the team to host games for the duration of the 2026 season. However, the team's current occupancy permit with the City of Spruce Grove will only allow for teams, an umpiring crew, and support staff to attend. Fans are not yet allowed in the ballpark.

In an announcement earlier this week, officials with the Cactus Rats said that construction continues at the venue, and that it is hoped that additional occupancy allowing fans into the facility can be achieved within the next two-to-four weeks.

"We once again want to thank all of our fans, sponsors, and league partners for their continued patience as we work towards the ultimate goal of a completed ballpark with all the bells and whistles," said the team in a statement.

Tonight's game against Okotoks is set to get underway at 6:05 p.m.