Signups under way for Senior Softball League

The East Toledo Senior Activities Center is looking for some swingers – some guys who like to run around – around the softball field, that is. Currently, the center is looking for players for the 18th season of the Senior Softball league.

“It’s hard to believe it’s that time of year again to begin registration for the 2012 season,” said Mary Wolff, director of the center.

Registration is being accepted for the 50 and Over League, 58 and Over League, Both and Preferred Sub. Those who are 58 and older are eligible to be on a team in both leagues.

Early bird registration fee (postmarked by Jan. 31), will by $45 for one league and $60 for both leagues. Registration between Feb. 1 and March 16 is $50 for one league and $65 for both. Any registration after March 16 will be assessed a $10 late fee, which must be paid before a player is placed on a roster.

Fees including a t-shirt, hat, league fees and membership.

Registration fee may be paid by cash, check, money order or a major credit card. Those interested may also register online at http://HTOsports.com/etsacsoftball.

Practice will begin April 4 at 6 p.m. The Manager’s and Players’ Rules Meeting is set for May 2 at 7 p.m. in the Family Center gym, 1020 Varland. League play will begin May 14 for the 58 and Over team and May 16 for 50 and Over team.

Wolff, who attends every game, cooking up hot dogs and taking in the action, said the teams offer not only a way for players of all skill level to get some exercise, they also provide an opportunity for socialization and to build new friendships. Donations and proceeds from concessions at games go back to support the softball program.

“The E.T.S.A.C. softball league has provided many benefits to my life,” said longtime ballplayer John Buehler. “It has been most rewarding to learn that participating in sports is just as much fun as it was when I was a child – our skills have eroded, but joy of playing ball is no different.

Buehler said thought the season is short, it has led him to change his lifestyle over the entire year. “The cold months are spent staying in condition for the spring and the start of a new season. It is important for new players to realize the importance of being in shape to play softball. Everyone deals with pulled muscles and injuries. That is going to happen in senior sports.”

Buehler added that new players needn’t worry about their skill levels or being “rusty” from a long absence from the field. “They will find that they are accepted in our league regardless of their skill level,” he said. “New teams are assembled every season by the managers and league commissioners. The final composition of each team is balanced with competitive players and those less skilled.

“All of us have made many new friendships. We can visit with our softball brethren during the long winter,” he added.

Wolff offered a reminder that that the center sponsors year-round volleyball and winter basketball in the gym at the East Toledo Family Center. Volleyball is played every Monday morning at 9 a.m. Winter basketball is played every Tuesday and Thursday evening from 7 to 8:30 p.m. through April. All men age 50 and older are invited to join in. The programs are drop-in. There is no fee to participate.

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