It’s time to say “Play ball!” with the Oldtimers Softball League.
The Oldtimers Softball League held their opening day game on May 2. The league, which comprises nine teams filled with players ages 50 and up, has been running for over 20 years.
Based in Parkchester at the Field of Dreams at Pugsley Creek Park, most of the players are fanatics of baseball, having played since they were teenagers. Many members have previously or currently work for the MTA, the New York Police Department, the Fire department, the Sanitation department, among others.
The first pitch was thrown by New York State Senator Nathalia Fernandez, of district 4. Having played softball before in her youth, she was excited to throw the first pitch, bringing in a new baseball season.
“It is an honor, and it’s a lot of pressure. You want to make sure you’re hitting [the ball] down the line. But I did play softball when I was a kid, so I’m not too bad,” Fernandez said.
“But it’s really fun, and it’s really the perks of community work, being able to just participate and literally play a game, [and] have fun with your neighbors.”
After throwing the first pitch, league president Jose Gonzalez alongside secretary and social media manager Jessica Gonzalez presented a trophy to Fernandez, dedicated to all her hard work.
The game on Saturday was played by the Warriors against the Cardinals – two teams under the same league.
