Mr. Speaker, the other weekend, I had the honour of kicking off the cricket season with SOCA, the Southern Ontario Cricket Association, founded in 1883. Under the leadership of Parveen, Dr. Hariharan, president Giridhar and vice-president Karthik, SOCA has grown into a community of 79 teams. Today, SOCA runs leagues for women, children and seniors, creating a truly inclusive cricket community.
In the Waterloo region, SOCA serves 8,000 members, who find friendship, purpose and pride. Through sport, they are growing leaders, role models and stronger communities. Parveen Sharma has dedicated over 31 years to growing this organization. Parveen was the backbone of local cricket programs long before cricket had the visibility it enjoys today.
Mayor Berry has been a tremendous support over the years. His advocacy at the municipal level has played a key role in helping the league thrive in the Waterloo region.
This is exactly the kind of community building I am very proud to support. I wish SOCA a very successful season.