Toronto, Ont.— In an emotional and heartwarming moment that transcends sports, Toronto Blue Jays fans are celebrating the return of a beloved figure known simply as the “Home Plate Lady,” whose unwavering presence and spirited energy at Rogers Centre has long been a symbol of dedication, joy, and community.
For long-time fans and players alike, her seat behind home plate is as famous as the CN Tower beyond the outfield. The Home Plate Lady, real name Joyce Martin, a retired Scarborough schoolteacher, has been a regular at nearly every Jays home game since the late 1980s, dressed in her characteristic Blue Jays garb, carrying her trusty scorecard, and exuding boundless enthusiasm. Her absence due to health issues this season left a palpable vacuum behind the plate—and in many people’s hearts.
Joyce’s long-awaited return to Rogers Centre was met with thunderous cheers, handshakes from players, and a standing ovation from the audience. What began as a simple welcome back developed into a city-wide celebration, with the Blue Jays community rallying behind her return with the warmth and admiration often given for the team’s best players.
“This is my home,” Joyce stated emotionally during an in-game interview. “I’ve missed this place, these fans, the boys on the field… it feels so good to be back.”
Social media erupted in celebration, with #HomePlateLadyReturns and #JoyceAtThePlate trending around Canada. Fans told memories about seeing her on TV for decades, sharing good words with her at the ballpark, and even being inspired by her unwavering support for the team.
Blue Jays manager John Schneider also paid praise to Joyce during the postgame press conference, saying, “Seeing her back there behind the plate—it just felt right.” She is an integral component of this ballpark’s soul.”
The Blue Jays organization joined in the celebration, paying tribute to Joyce with a surprise during the seventh inning stretch. A special film montage showcasing her decades-long devotion aired on the Jumbotron, followed by a personalized jersey presented to her by team president Mark Shapiro with the number “1” and the name “Home Plate Lady” on the back.
Beyond her passion, Joyce Martin has been recognized for her modest giving, which includes supporting child baseball initiatives, donating to community sports programs, and even teaching young fans who sit next to her at games. Her narrative exemplifies athletics’ persistent ability to draw people together—not only through wins and losses, but through shared history, emotion, and connection.
“She’s not just a fan,” a Rogers Centre usher explained. “She’s family.”
As the Blue Jays continue to climb the AL standings, Joyce’s return serves as a stark reminder that legends don’t necessarily wear cleats or hit home runs. Sometimes they sit quietly behind home plate night after night, completely devoted to a team.
Welcome home, Home Plate Lady. Rogers Centre simply wasn’t the same without you.