Moncton, NB – Greg Hickox, a name synonymous with Moncton baseball, will be honored for his remarkable 34-year career with the Moncton Mets on Sunday, June 30th, at Kiwanis Park. This celebration marks a significant milestone for Hickox, whose journey in baseball began in Riverview and has inspired countless young athletes in the region.
Hickox’s passion for baseball ignited in 1979 when he played for Riverview’s first team to win a provincial title. “We were the first team to win a provincial title in Riverview’s history, and that just fueled my love for the game,” Hickox recalls. His dedication to the sport saw him playing provincial baseball throughout his youth, with the ultimate goal of joining the Moncton Mets.
The path to the Mets wasn’t straightforward. Hickox described the tryout process as daunting, often feeling overshadowed by returning veterans. “You’d go through the tryout process, think you were doing well, and then the veterans would come back, and you’d have to prove yourself all over again,” he explained. Despite the challenges, Hickox’s perseverance paid off, and he became a cornerstone of the team.
Hickox’s impact extends beyond his performance on the field. His commitment to community engagement, particularly with young players, has been instrumental in fostering a love for baseball in Moncton. “We’ve made a good step towards bringing baseball back to the forefront by being mindful of our selections for imports like John Haimowitz, who is great with the kids,” Hickox said. His efforts to involve players in grassroots practices have helped cultivate the next generation of baseball enthusiasts.
Currently, Hickox has adapted his role within the Mets, focusing on coaching and mentoring while balancing family commitments. “We have four or five coaches on staff this year, which allows me to stay involved without the pressure of being the head coach,” he noted. This flexibility ensures that the team can continue to thrive while accommodating the personal lives of its members.
Reflecting on his career, Hickox expressed deep gratitude for the recognition. “It hits me differently day by day. To be honored by an organization I’ve loved for most of my life is overwhelming,” he said. Sharing the moment with his father, who has been a constant support, adds to the significance of the occasion. “My dad never played ball, but he was always involved and took me to all these provincial games. Sharing this with him is incredibly rewarding.”
As Moncton prepares to honor Hickox, the community is reminded of the vital role sports play in bringing people together. “Baseball is at the core of this city,” said the Interviewer Brock Gallant, reflecting on the sport’s long-standing presence in Moncton. The Mets’ legacy, bolstered by figures like Hickox, continues to inspire and motivate young athletes.
The celebration at Kiwanis Park promises to be a heartfelt tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to baseball. As Hickox looks to the future, he remains committed to nurturing young talent and ensuring the Mets’ continued success. “We have to make sure we cultivate young players so that we’ll have a strong base for years to come,” he emphasized.
Join the Moncton community in honoring Greg Hickox on Sunday, June 30th, at Kiwanis Park, and celebrate the enduring legacy of a true baseball icon.
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