Zachary Olson of Red Deer was recently honoured as the Baseball Alberta player of the year in the mosquito competitive division. Olson, 11, starred with the Red Deer Dick’s Auto AA Braves, providing leadership as the lone returning player as well as power at the plate and strikeout prowess on the mound. Olson excelled as a pitcher, catcher and shortstop, and also played in the outfield. The three players whose names appeared as game MVPs on official scoresheets during the season were the finalists for the player of the year award, and the coaches from each mosquito team affiliated with Baseball Alberta then voted to choose one player. The winner was picked on the basis of good sportsmanship, a dedication to the game, leadership and a high ability level. Olson received the award from Hall of Fame pitcher Steve Carlton at the Baseball Alberta awards winner in Calgary.