The Weyburn Senior Beavers took a hit in cash flow from increased expenses in the 2003 season, but the executive are optimistic 2004 will pan out as a stronger year financially

At the team's annual meeting on Wednesday at the Weyburn Credit Union, outgoing treasurer Darcy Golden reported the Beavers suffered a net loss of $5,140 in the year ending Dec. 31, 2003.

The Beavers' revenue from sales of game tickets, programs and 50/50 tickets was $6,347, an increase from last year. However, they dropped in sales of season tickets and sponsorship dollars.

Also, there were significantly increased expenses as a result of traveling, such as $8,320 in fuel and van rentals and $7,010 in meals and rooms.

The 2002 season saw the Senior Beavers score a profit of $6,354. This year's deficit took a chunk out of their cash on hand.

On the positive side, however, Garnet Hansen reported that, starting in October, he and Elmer Franks have already been contacting businesses and organizations for sponsorship dollars. Response from past sponsors has been strong, and there are new groups who may sign on.

Sponsorship dollars accumulated $18,345 in 2003, and they're easily close to that amount already, said Hansen.

"It looks quite good," he added.

Ken Larson stressed that, with the addition of large centres like Calgary, Medicine Hat, Lethbridge and most recently Red Deer to the Western Major Baseball League (WMBL), it is imperative for Weyburn to put a good product on the field.

And to do that, they need the support of the Weyburn community, he said.

Elaborating on that point, outgoing president Mel Siever said the WMBL is probably the best amateur baseball league in Canada right now, and if Weyburn loses their team, they will never reach that calibre of ball again.

Regarding the formation of the roster, coach Bob Narkaus said he has contacted a large number of players and there will be a lot of veterans coming back, in addition to a few new prospects.

"I'd say we almost have a starting line-up," he said.

The Sr. Beavers also opened the floor to nominations for executive positions. Hansen was elected as president, Larson as vice president, Sandy Nelson as treasurer and Jan Beahm as secretary.

Larson is also second vice-president of the WMBL.

Siever, who has served as president since the team's inception in 2002, said he was most impressed during his term with the array of volunteers helping with the team over the past two years, and that they managed to involve many local athletes on the roster.

The Sr. Beavers are still looking for volunteers to help out with their 2004 season in marketing, working games, soliciting billets and employment, and so on.