2010 SEASON STARTS IN ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA

June 1, 2010

By Gordon Haubenschild

ROCHESTER, MINN. – Summer play is under way at the

Rochester McQuillan Fields as the Rochester Minnesota Senior Softball Association starts its new season.

More than 100 players are taking part in the organized summer senior league softball for fun, fitness and friendship. There are six sponsored teams

with hopes and plans to add two more teams.

The players range from 50 to 85 years old and include both men and women. There are several 80+ year olds playing strong softball like

Irv Diberich and Dave Ewald who show up for every game and are solid hitters. Standout George Stebbins is turning 85 this year. He enjoys the thrill of throwing out runners from his position at second base.

The season runs through Sept.29 and is broken into four 10-game sessions. At the start of each session, the team rosters are changed via a draft

in order for players to get to know and play with others in the league. Games are played Monday and Wednesday mornings.

The Senior Softball Association and its players also help support local charities. A Channel One Food Drive was held this past winter during Dome softball season. In July, there will be a big end-of-session party when the senior softball players are also “Going to Bat” for Channel One Food Shelf. There is a target of batting "500", the combined donated dollar and food pound amount. Each dollar can help buy five meals.

More senior softball players are wanted from the southeast Minnesota area. Play is open to men age 50 and up and women age 40 and older. Interested people are invited to come out to any game to sign up.

For more information, call Bill Miller, RMSSA coordinator, at 507-288-3752 or go to www.rochestermnseniorsoftball.webs.com.