OROVILLE – Spring marks the return of adult slow pitch softball and for the second year in a row a league is forming in north county.
Last spring nine adult co-ed teams formed a slow pitch softball league in Oroville with two of the teams coming out of Tonasket. Games were generally played on Friday nights at 6 p.m. during the months of May and June, with a kick-off tournament at the end of April and a final tournament at the end of June.
“We are once again looking forward to putting together a league and hopefully expand, as we’d love to see more teams join the fun,” said Steve Quick, who is organizing the league. “We are searching out people who would either like to put together a team or simply join a team in need of players.”
While games are usually competitive, the heart of the league is to make sure adults are having fun playing softball together, getting a little exercise and taking advantage of the great weather and facilities we have in the area, according to Quick.
Games usually start at 6 p.m. with the first game going five innings and the second game going up to seven, depending on the amount of light. Each team must have at least three women in the lineup at all times.
“Probably the most interesting part of the league is the strike zone behind the plate that is designated by a carpet cut-out. The batting team supplies the umpire and sportsmanship is demanded by everyone,” Quick said. “We are super excited for another season of fun. Whether you want to play or come watch, all are welcome as there is a really fun family atmosphere at all games.”
Last year the games were played at Oroville’s Bud Clark Memorial Ballfields and at Oroville High School’s Terry Taylor softball field, but the league is hoping some more teams will form in Tonasket and expand play to include fields there.
Those interested in being part of this year’s league should call Quick at (509) 560-3641 or send him an email at squick18@gmail.com.