China Softball Ambassador Lauds Seniors Playing in the TOC

June 1, 2016 – Zhaoli Chen

POLK COUNTY, FLA. – Coming to the United States to witness first-hand what Senior Softball has to offer, I was immediately enthralled by everything from the beautiful Florida lakes, the clear blue sky, the Kennedy Space Center and Walt Disney World.

But what was especially exciting to me was to see those slowpitch softball players with white and gray hairs but young faces running in the green baseball fields – a lovely sight indeed.

I came here in early February to attend the Senior Softball USA Tournament of Champions, an event that attracts championship- winning teams from across the United States. 

I had the luck to join part of the program of the TOC and I had a very happy and enjoyable time. Terry Hennessy, chief executive officer of Senior Softball USA, invited me to join the National All-Star team. This was a first for me and I felt honored and had a truly unforgettable experience.

The tournament’s organizers offered a wide variety of interesting games and awards. There were both group competition programs and some technical and skill contests programs. Although the players are stars of championship teams, they still listened intently to the coaches and trainers. Their learning spirits almost made me forget that they were senior players as I thought of them as  just like the pupils in the classrooms.

 The powerful homerun hitting, the perfect positioning pitching, and all the skillful performances of the players received overwhelming applause from the audience. I was also impressed by those who were chasing the exciting moments of the sports with their cameras as well as the volunteers who contributed their services to the TOC. Everyone found their interests and joy in the sport.

In particular, the Wounded Warriors team found their great confidences, won high respects, gave strength, power, and a positive message to all. 

I had also noticed the colorful and stylish uniforms, which are varied and graceful, carrying geographic culture, reflecting the players enjoyment of the sport and the fashion.

I noticed that Terry Hennessy walked to every playing field to talk with the players and always received a warm welcome and hugs. He has created a great family of players and fans, filled with love. 

Beginning in 2013, SSUSA brought slowpitch softball to Asia, to China, Taiwan, Japan _ and with it they brought the independent and healthy life of American culture to our part of the world.

In my opinion, I believe that the United States, not only has  built top class sciences, but also the most shinny and healthy life styles for all Americans.

Thank you Mr. Hennessy and thanks lot to SSUSA. I’ll bring the beauty of the slowpitch softball sport spirits to the people of China.

Zhaoli Chen is Executive Director of the Pacific Rim Association, and a charter member from China.