Ray started senior ball with coach John Mansell at Foxwarren in 1952, played in Darlingford in 1953, then with Neepawa Cubs from 1954-56 where he was an all-star pitcher. Ray went on to play in the Parochial League with St. Mary`s, 1957-61, with St. Lazare Athletes from 1963 to 1968 (M.S.B.L. champs in 1963). Ray redesigned the Birtle ball diamond, and helped lay foundation for Birtle Blue Jays. Simms initiated the popular M.S.B.L. July 1st tournament, and served on the executive of the first two Manitoba High Schools provincial tournaments. Simms was a long time M.S.B.L. director, schedule maker, and President in 1979-80. Ray received a M.S.B.L. life membership in 1985, and the Ab Richardson Award for dedication, sportmanship, and long time service to baseball.
