Antonick Sponsors WACCA U40 Softball Tournament
2025 WACCA U40 committee.
WACCA U40 Hits a Home Run for Mental Health
Formed less than six months ago in March 2025, the Walls and Ceilings Contractors Association’s Under-40 division (WACCA U40) has already proven the strength of community when driven by passion and purpose. Vice President Antonio Repaci, alongside fellow committee members, helped establish this new initiative to bring young professionals together—fostering collaboration, leadership, and a renewed commitment to industry well-being.
In its very first summer, the U40 team pulled off something remarkable: a sold-out charity softball tournament that raised $20,000 and united contractors, suppliers, and partners across Ottawa—all in support of mental health in construction.
Building More Than Walls: Building Awareness
The August event wasn’t just about bats, gloves, and home runs. It was about shining a light on one of the industry’s biggest challenges—mental health. By combining a day of friendly competition with a cause that touches every jobsite, WACCA U40 showed how the next generation of leaders is ready to step up for real change.
QUOTE
“To see so many member firms come together, laughing, competing, and ultimately raising funds for such an important cause—it shows the future of our industry is in good hands.”
- Dan Robibero, owner Accurate Drywall.
A Team Effort for a Greater Cause
While the scoreboard told one story, the bigger victory was clear: awareness, fundraising, and solidarity around mental health in construction. The energy on the field reflected a bigger shift taking place in the industry—toward open conversations, stronger connections, and breaking the stigma.
From the first pitch to the last out, the day was filled with amazing food, custom jerseys, goodie bags, and some very competitive (but always fun) ball. But beyond the on-field action, the real story was in the numbers and the impact:
$20,000 Raised – Funds donated to The Royal Ottawa Foundation for Mental Health.
28 Member Firms Represented – A true cross-section of Ottawa’s construction community.
8 Teams Competing – From drywall contractors to suppliers like Morin Supply, Accurate Drywall, and United Rentals, the turnout proved how united the industry can be.
A First-Time Success – This inaugural event sold out quickly—setting the stage for many more community-driven initiatives in the future.
Antonick Interiors joined forces with Accurate Drywall to field a co-team battling their way to a 4th place finish.
Looking Ahead
The WACCA U40 board isn’t stopping here. With momentum from this successful event, plans are already underway for more fundraisers, networking opportunities, and industry-building initiatives. If this tournament was any indication, the future of Ottawa’s walls and ceilings community is brighter—and stronger—than ever.
Antonick Interiors is proud to have been part of WACCA U40 from the very beginning, and we remain committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen both our industry and our community. To learn more about The Royal Ottawa and the work they do, please visit their website: https://www.theroyal.ca/.
Norm Jeaurond and Sue Clusiau in action.
Continue Reading