Friday Games

Two games today. A mixed American League game on field B and a National League 3 team game on field A. The Managers were Wally, Spitilari and Zelazny. After 1 inning it was Wally 4, Spitilari 3 and Zelazny 2. In the 2nd inning no team scored and the only other goose egg recorded was in the top of the open inning by team  Wally. The fact there was much scoring and players going on and off the field was very slow may be why we didn't get out of the Diamonplex until after 12:30. We only have those fields until noon on days we play and I was reminded of that by a city employee. After 4 innings it was 11, 11, 8 with Team Zelazny having the 8. Final was team Spitilari 22, team Wally 17 and team Zelazny 13. 

The hitters. 

5 hits.      Jorge, B.J. Spitilari

4 hits.      Testa, Lopez, DeLoach, 

                 Gonzalez, Dampier, Tchetta

                 Ouding

3 hits.      Hudson, Vandenberg, Wally

                 Reagan, Rounds, Zelazny

                 LeTourneau, Gil

See y'all Tuesday and let's hustle a little and not get the umpire reprimanded. 

Write up by L. Fabian 

Friday,11 April

Games are on. Please sign in by 0900

Tuesday 8 April

Games are on today. Do not forget that today's games are at the Diamond Plex. Bring your own bats and sign in by 0900.

4-4-25 last game at Sertoma this year

Managers Sam Lopez and B.J. Kallister decided before game time that it would be a seven inning game and here is how it went. For the first 4 innings, Bob Dowdy pitched shut out ball while Team Lopez took an 8-0 lead. Team B.J. climbed back in it with 4 runs in the top of 5th inning and 1 run in the top of 6th inning. Dowdy took charge again in the open inning, facing only 3 batters with a game ending double play.

The hitters

3 hits.    Hudson

               LeTournou

               Pepin

               Castilleja

               Vanderhyde

               Pablo

2 hits.    Anderson

               Robenou 

               Shaffer

               Lopez

               Gonzalez

               Burner

               Ott

See y'all Tuesday April 8th at the Diamondplex and the BOD thanks all the players for coming to Sertoma to keep playing Senior Softball. 

This message was sent by CPW SERVICES INTERIOR FINISH PRODUCTS.

Write up by L. Fabian 

               

                                  

Friday 4 April

Games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

Fwd: Fw: 4-1-25 field 2 at Sertoma.

The new rule on this field proved to be a good move as many opportunities to throw a runner out from the outfield could not develop.  

Managers were Lopez, B.J. and Vanderhyde even tho he played defense for all 3 teams. 

All teams scored in the first inning with team Vanderhyde 5, team B.J. 3 and team Lopez 2. After 5 innings it was team Vanderhyde 11, team B.J. 8 and team Lopez 7.  Vanderhyde won the game without ever having an at bat with a score of 15, 13, 7.

The hitters

5 hits.             Rad

4 hits.             Michl

                        Reed

                        Pablo

                        Cruz

                        Ramon

3 hits.             Anderson 

                        Tutrani 

2 hits.             B.J.

                        Marino

                        Shier

                        DeLoach 

                        Johnston

                        Lopez 

This message brought to you by SOMEWHERE SPORTS BAR. 

Write up by L. Fabian

Tuesday 1 April

Games are on. Please sign in by 0900. First pitch 0930.

**** LEAGUE NEWS ****

Sponsor by Ridge Energy 

Exciting news! We are thrilled to announce that we will be returning to Diamond Plex on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, a week earlier than expected. As we prepare to make our grand return, we bid farewell to our Snowbirds who have already flown back up north. But fear not, for we will be here waiting for you when you return to resume play. And for our year-round players, get ready for a summer filled with fun and new excitement. See you on the field!

Lou Guzman

Acting Commissioner 

Diamondplex

Mark your calendars. We are heading back to the Diamondplex on Tuesday April 8th.

Start time is 0930. Please sign in by 0900.

3-28-25 Field #2 at Sertoma.

First, a rule change for field #2 for the rest of the time we play at Sertoma  this year.

BOD member Joe D'Herin called an on field meeting of all players, suggesting no force outs could be made at first, second or third base on a ball hit to the outfield grass either by a base hit or error. It was overwhelmingly approved, as there have been many such force out plays happening for 2 reasons. The fences are shorter and more significant, the bases are 5 feet longer. 

The force out can still be made on a runner advancing to home. 

Now, on to Friday's game. 

Managers were Spitilari, Lopez and Hite. 

Team Spitilari led 11-5-4 after 5 innings but didn't score again till the 9th inning, finishing with 13. Team Lopez managed to post 6 goose eggs 🥚 in a row to finish with 5.  Team Hite kept on scoring to finish in a tie with Team Spitilari.  Final 13-5-13. 

Hitters. 

Vanderhyde.    3-4

Burtner.              3-4

LeTourneau.    2-4

Pablo.               2-2

B.J.                    3-3

Marino.             4-5

Dowdy.              3-5

Johnston.         3-5

Andrews            4-5

Spitilari.             3-5

Tutrani.              3-4

Gil.                      3-4

J.D.                     2-3

Shier.                  3-5

Reed.                  4-5

Hite.                    3-4

Fleming.             3-4

WOW!!!  Lots of hits, but lots of runners thrown out from the outfield, even one DP. This new rule should rectify that. 

See y'all Tuesday

This message brought to you by STEWART COLLISION AND AUTO REPAIR. 

Write up by L. Fabian 

Friday 28 March

Games are on. Please sign in by 0900. Play well.

*** American League Update 3/27/25 ***

 Sponsored by  Jarrett Gordon FORD

Thursday, March 27, 2026

The American League had quite the rollercoaster of emotions during their two-game set at Solivita. Game one started off with a bang as we scored five runs, including a majestic home run, in the first inning. However, things quickly took a turn for the worse as we started making errors left and right, allowing Solivita to claw their way back into the game. It was like we were playing with our eyes half-closed after a wild night out. Despite only managing to score three runs in the next three innings, we somehow found ourselves tied 19-19 in the bottom of the seventh. Unfortunately, Solivita had other plans and snatched the victory with a final score of 19-20.

Game two was a bit more controlled, with fewer errors plaguing our performance. We were leading 8-6 by the bottom of the sixth, but Solivita's relentless offense managed to tie the game 8-8. It all came down to the wire in the bottom of the seventh, with two outs and Jose "JRod" Rodriguez stepping up to the plate. With a clutch base hit, Rodriguez put the winning run in scoring position, setting the stage for Manny Rios to deliver the game-winning hit and secure the victory by scoring Billy Maxwell.

And let's not forget the home runs that lit up the field:

Derrick Lafleur blasted 3 HRs
Rob Aponte smacked 2 HRs
Manny Rios added one to the mix
Bradley Scheirer joined the home run party with a dinger of his own

Looks like the American League is bringing the heat this season!

                                                           ***

From LGG. 

Fwd: Fw: 3-25-25 Sertoma field 2.

Having no idea who the 3 managers were, I'll just tell yall there were three teams that battled to a 5-5-2 finish. There were a number of fine defensive play by all 3 teams contributing to the low scores.

Hitters

4 hits. Vanderhyde

3 hits. Shearer

            Johnston

            Tutrani

2 hits. Ryan

            Andrews

            Castilleja

            Fleming

            Constatine

            Ramon

            Pablo

            Hudson

See y'all Friday. 

This brought to you by RIDGE ENERGY

Write up Fabian

Tuesday's games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

**** League News Update ****

 Sponsor by CPW Services

Friday, March 21, 2025 was a day that will be etched in our memories forever! The Winter Haven Senior Softball Club joined forces with the Central Florida Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #176 for an unforgettable experience at the Detroit Tigers vs. The New York Yankees spring training game in Lakeland.

The game was filled with excitement and thrills, and to top it off, there was a spectacular drone show after the final inning. During the game, members from both groups indulged in an all-you-can-eat buffet, sharing stories and laughter.

It was truly a fantastic time had by all, and I am already looking forward to organizing a similar outing for the entire league next year. The camaraderie and joy shared during this event is something that we will cherish forever!

Lou Guzman

Acting Commissioner

Fwd: Fw: Friday March 21 at Sertoma field 2

22 Senior ballplayers, 2 umpires and 1 who chose to manage a team showed up for a Senior ball game on a very cold and WINDY morning and it was a "doozie" as old sitcom Hazel would say.  There were many hoodies, gloves and ear muffs. Still, some in shorts and Jerry Ryan in shorts and only a WH Senior Softball t-shirt catching winning pitcher Ron Thompson for the entire 9 innings. On to the game. 

Team Hite took a 5-1 lead into the top of the 4th inning when team Dampier scored 4 runs to tie it up. Thanks to many, many fine defensive plays and a lot of ATOM ball it was a low scoring game. Team Dampier held a 9-6 lead after 7 thanks to Pat Sullivan blasting one over the right center fence with Johnston and Jorge on 3rd and 2nd and he scored as well on a single by B.J.  Team Hite scored 1 in the bottom of the 7th and put up the only nickel in the bottom of the 8th for an 11-9 final as Team Hite went 1,2,3 on 3 pitches in the top of the 9th. 

Top hitters 

Jorge.           3-5

Al Andrews  3-5

Picnick          2-4

Testa.            3-4

McDonald.   3-4

Gutenberger 2-4

DeLoach.      2-4

Pablo.           2-4

Tutrani.         2-4

Hite.              4-4

See y'all Tuesday when the weather looks to be much warmer and brighter

This game brought to you by 1st STREET DINER. 

Write up by L. Fabian. 

Games

Friday, March 21 games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

League Update

 From Lou Guzman, Acting Commissioner.

We are eagerly anticipating our return to the Diamond Plex field! Here's the current situation: the field is currently under contract for the next two weeks. Following the tournaments, the field will need to undergo remediation for an additional two weeks. We are hopeful to be back on the field by April 15, 2025. I will be closely monitoring the progress, especially since the American League players are still utilizing the field across the street. Let's get ready to hit the ground running when we finally get back out there! National League will still be using the fields at Lake Shipp until we are back. 

Three Team Game

With only 33 players, we played a three team game that proved exciting and close in the end. The Board elected to forego its usual pick of managers and went with three relative newbies in the role of top dog. The hit team was led by Fred Dampier. The first five batters scored and it looked like they were going to establish themselves as the early favorites. BJ's sit team answered with five of their own to tie it up. Freddies field team only managed two in the first. While they didn't score bunches of runs they did manage to score in six of the innings. Team Dampier scored in bunches, but were shut out in five of the seven innings. Team BJ was consistent, scoring multiple runs in five of the seven innings. As a result, they took an eight run lead going into the ninth.  Team Dampier failed to score in the ninth and sat and watched as Team BJ tried to hold off Team G. Team Dampier just wanted them to hold them to under three runs... Unfortunately for Team Dampier, that did not happen, as Freddie's team scored three to tie for second place.. Final score Team BJ 17, Team Dampier 9 and Team Gonzalez 9.. It should be noted that this broke Ron Thompson's four game winning streak..Winning pitcher was Steve Pinnick..

Outstanding players

Mitch 5-5

Skidmore 5-5

Marino 4-4

Burtner 3-3

Bill T 4-5

Mark T 3-4

Allen 4-4

Ted Taylor

Friday we lost one of our long time players. Ted Taylor passed away from a heart attack. His daughter and son-in-law were  down here with at the time. He was the guy who brought me into the League 18 years ago.  He was a  fantastic hockey player, a very good ball player, and so-so golfer. I will remember him as fierce competitor, a great teammate, and one of the finest gentleman I've known. Please keep Ted's family in your prayers

Tuesday, March 18 Games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

*** American League ***

On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the American League travel team had quite the day at Solivita, playing not one, but two epic games.

In the first game, we started strong, taking the lead in the second inning. However, Solivita fought back and tied the game in the fifth, making the score a whopping 20-20. But did we back down? No way! We rallied and scored 11 runs, ultimately winning with a score of 31-28. Talk about a nail-biter!

Game two was a whole different ball game. We couldn't seem to catch a break as Solivita's defense was on fire, keeping us at bay the entire time. By the bottom of the seventh, Solivita was ahead 20-12, and things were looking grim. But did we throw in the towel? Absolutely not! We dug deep, scored eight runs, and miraculously tied the game at 20-20. What a comeback!

Despite the ups and downs, both teams had a blast, and the competition was fierce. We can't wait for our next showdown with Solivita next month. Get ready for another thrilling matchup, folks! The team hit 17 home runs.

Notable hits.

Rob Aponta HRs, (5)

Jose Rodriguez, HRs (3)

Patrick Sullivan, HRs (3)

Manny Rios, HRs. (2)

Derrick LaFleur, HRs (2)

Bradley Scheirer HR

Mike Vaccaro HR.

***

LGG

Fw: 3-14-25 Team Spitilari vs Team Hite

Team Hite came out strong and was leading 10-2 after 4 innings. But they

 could only muster 5 more runs the rest of the way while Team Spitilari took a 14-13 lead after 6 innings.  The rest was all Team Spitilari including 10 runs in the top of the open inning. The final score was 30-15 in favor of Spitilari. 

League Senior Ron Thompson was the winning pitcher and it was his first 4th win in a row. 

The hitters

6 hits.          Hudson

5 hits.          J. Andrew's

                     Burner

                     Spitilari 

4 hits.          Kathy

                     Schaffer

                     Ira

                     Ernesto

                     L. Baker

                     Sullivan

                     DeLoach

                     Hite

3 hits.          Letourno

                     Gonzalez 

                     Castilleja

Write up brought to you courtesy of longtime sponsor KINCAID ELECTRIC 

Write up by L. Fabian. 

March 14 Games

Field 2 saw Sam Lopez' Team square off against Bob Zs Team.. With only ten players per team (plus one loaner from the other team) defense was a challenge. There was great play on both sides, so the score was relatively lo Team Z broke to an early lead that lasted to the second inning. The game remained close the rest of the way with w compared to previous games. It should be noted that we made it to the third inning before we had our first  of two controversial calls but in the nature of good sportsmanship we made it past them and had a very exciting game. The most impressive hit of the day came from Ramon as he put one over the high left field fence for the longest out in recent times. The game stayed close throughout with Team Z taking a 11 to 6 lead going into the ninth inning.With Team Lopez' middle of the line up unable to score, the game ended with Team z !! and Team Lopez 7.

outstanding players

Hoper 4-5

Shearer 4-4

Downy 3-4

Ott 4-5

BJ 4-4

Anderson 4-4

Ouding 3-4

Winning Pitcher Steve Pinnick

... 

Friday 14 March Games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

Team V v Team H

With the wind blowing out, Team Vandenberg took on Team Hite with each team playing 10 without a midfielder.  Team V jumped out early with 5 runs in the 1^st.  Team H answered with 4.  At that point Pete Gutenberg arrived.  Team H lost their manager(and I must say inspirational leader) who would play defense for both teams.  George Knox wasn't there, he and his wife headed back north so she could get some much needed medical care.   Good Luck to them both.  In our hearts George went 6 for 6 with 3 doubles.

After 4 innings in a very tight 9-8 game, with Team H leading.  Team V could manage only 8 runs the rest of the way while Team H put up 13 runs.  Final score Team H 22 Team V 15.  Well played by both teams with lots of smiles and laughs.  It was great to see Don Witmer walking around the fields.

Hits Team V

Ott – 4 hits

Sullivan – 6 hits, 2 doubles

LeTourneau – 3 hits( with some good defense)

MacDonald – 3 hits(even after being rob 3 times)

Gonzales – 4 hits

 

Hits Team H

 

Burtner – 5 hits

Baker – 4 hits(also winning pitcher)

Deloach – 5 hits

Cruz – 3 hits

Gutenberg – 5 hits

Team S v Team Z

People will be convinced I misplaced today's score sheets on purpose after reading the final score but swear that is not the case. Team Z scored 5 runs in the first innings to take an early lead. Over the next 8 innings they stretched their to ten runs.

While Team Z knew the outcome was never in doubt, Team S never gave up. Bob's Team put up 13 runs in the 9th to take the lead to the amazement of everyone. Team Z were confident with the top of the lineup coming up. While they did score, the inning ended with the winning run on base. Final score Team S 19 and Team Z 17.

Tuesday Mar 11 Games

Games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

Fw: WHSS games 3-7-25

A beautiful day for 2 ball games at Sertoma Park as 40 players showed up for 4 10 member teams. 

But first, 2 concerned players headed over to the home of Tony Q to check on his health status after the games. Tony's brother answered the door an informed the concerned teammates that he was still in the hospital, receiving treatment and undergoing tests..

On what I will call field 1 team Dampier squared off against team Hite.  Hite jumped out on top 7-2 after 2 innings but Dampier started scoring and led 11-8 after 5 innings.  Team Dampier failed to score the last 3 innings as Team Hite put up 7 more for a for a final of 15-11.

Top hitters 

Vanderhyde.    5-5

Rounds.            3-5

Letourno.         3-5

Page.                 4-6

Rad.                   4-6

Hudson.            4-6

Baker.                4-6   WP

Hooper.             4-5

Marino.             3-5

Over on Field 2. Team Lopez took on Team Thompson. The score was knotted at 7 after 4 innings and finished at 13-11 in favor Team Thompson and Ron Thompson won hi 2nd game in a row after pitching a shutout on Tuesday. 

Top hitters

Ouding.          5-5

Sullivan.         3-5

Johnston.      3-5

Schaffer.        3'5

Jose L.           3-5

Howard.         4-5

B. King.          3-6

Knox.              5-6

Ott.                  5-6

Brennan.         3-6

E. Cruz.           3-5

Lopez.            4'5

This report brought to you by long time sponsor TUCKER CARPETS. 

Write up by Loren

Games are on. Please be at park and sign in by 0900 so that teams can be formed in timely fashion ensuring evenly matched teams.

Games summaries

History was made today as Ron Thompson pitched a  shutout against a variable power house. Obviously not a lot of highlights for the home team offensively speaking. They did play great defense by shutting out Ron's team in four of the innings and only allowing five runs through eight innings. Final score was team Thompson 8 and team Testa zero.

Outstanding players

Keller 3-4

Miller 3-4

Knox 3-4.

Ron Thompson winning pitcher in a shutout.

Team Zelazny faced off against Team Spitalari in a very close game. Team Spit broke ahead early but fell behind in the third when Team Z pushed actress four runs. While both teams managed to put up runs just about every inning , no one had the big inning to provide breathing room against their opponent.. Going into the seventh inning Team Spit found themselves behind by one run, 8-9. That ended up being the final score as neither team scored in the eighth or ninth innings.. Final score Team Z 9 and Team Spit 8.

Outstanding players

Rounds 3-4

Hudson 3-4

DeLoach 3-4

Skidmore 4-4

Johnson 3-4

Cruz 3-3

Donna winning pitcher

Tuesday 4 March

Games are on. Please sign in by 0900.

American League 27 February

Today, the American League travel team embarked on a thrilling journey to Solivita for a double-header showdown. The first game kicked off at a leisurely pace, with both teams only managing to score a few runs in the initial innings. However, by the fourth inning, the score was deadlocked at 9-9. In a nail-biting turn of events, we surged ahead to 17-13 in the seventh inning, but alas, victory slipped through our fingers as Solivita staged a remarkable comeback to snatch an 18-17 win.

The second game was a tense affair, with both teams locked in a fierce battle. After three innings, the score stood at a paltry 3-3. We managed to maintain a slim lead throughout the game, reaching a high of 12-5 at one point. Despite Solivita's valiant efforts to claw their way back, they could only muster 11 runs to our triumphant 12.

In the end, it was a day filled with heart-stopping moments, epic comebacks, and unrelenting determination. Though victory may have eluded us in the first game, we emerged victorious in the second, proving once again that we are a force to be reckoned with on the field.

Notable hits:

Bradley Scheir, HR (3).

Derrick Lafleur, HR (2).

Mike Vaccaro, HR.

Billy Maxwell, HR.

Jose "JRod" Rodriguez, HR.

       

Friday 28 February

Games are on at Sertoma Sports Fields located on N Lake Ship Road.

 

National League Rules for Sertoma Park

 

1. No Senior Bats. 

2. Single wall bats will be allowed on 2 fields with fences of at least 250'. or 225'

3. Shorter field - Wooden Bats only(I will get the number of the field)

4. Homeruns, any fair ball hit over the fence, on any field, will be an out and dead ball.  Runners may not advance.

5. Any player who hits a ball over the fence, see rule #4, will be restricted to wood bats for the remainder of the game.

6. American League players will be allowed to play, with wooden bats only.

 

Please direct any questions, concerns or comments to Board representative.

Tuesday 25 February

No games at either field. Sleep in and we will see you Friday.

 

*** Attention All Winter Haven Senior Softball Players ***

 

All games for Tuesday February 25^th have been cancelled.  Because of rain the city has closed all of ball fields.  Hope to see you Friday

                                         *** Reminder Notice***

                             This message is brought to you by Stewart Auto Repair.

 

As a reminder, we are relocating the National League squad to Sertoma Park / Lake Shipp Park, located at 1650 Lake Shipp Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880. Bob Hite, as well as other members of the board, will be there to assign teams. We'll be playing there until April. Stay tuned for more updates on the teams and rules. 

The American League will be playing at Rueben Williams Sports Complex, right across from Dimond Plex Filed “C.” I'll open the gate around 7 am each day.  Get ready for some epic games ahead!

LGG

Golf Tournament

Joe D'Herin will have a sign up sheet at the ball park on Tuesday to see if there is enough interest in playing. Tournament will be on Thursday, 27 March in the afternoon.

Natioal League recap

Team Vining vs Team Lopicillo 

Jim had hoped to go out on top in his last game before heading back to Alabama. Unfortunately it was not in the cards as his team came up a couple runs short as they went down 17-16. There were six lead changes as both teams remained competitive throughout. It came  down to the ninth inning as Team Vining stranded two runners in the ninth. The game was interesting in that each team had a number of american leaguers come over to fill out the teams. After watching them, I wonder if I ever could play like that. As happy as we were in our victory it was somewhat bittersweet as we had to say farewell to a great friend, player, teammate, and manager. Jim will be missed and we wish him great happiness in the future.

Outstanding players

Derrick 4-5 w2 homers

Bobby C 4-5

Bob Z 4-5

Scott P 4-5 w /homer

Team Lopez vs Team Toro

The over the hill gang took a huge lead through four innings as they tallied 15 runs to the five that the Reds managed to get across the plate. They slowed the attack through solid defense and managed to make up the run  difference and so going into the ninth inning the score was tied 18-18. In the top of the inning Sammy's boys tallied three runs and took the field to play defense knowing the power potential of the Reds.. The Reds did not disappoint as they put four of the first five batters on base. Unfortunately, a double play and ground out ended the  game. Final Score Team Lopez 23, Team Toro 21. Winning Pitcher Steve Pinick.

Outstanding players

Branley 6-6 W/triple

Jeff 5-6

Ray Levesque 4-5

Fred Dampier 4-4 W/triple

Gary Michl 5-5

Greg Hooper 5-5

Larry Baker 4-5

Denny Shaffer 4-5

Wally's World vs Spit's Coconuts

This game could not have been closer as the final score was 19 to 19. Wally's World broke on top and held the lead through the fourth inning. The Coconuts scored five runs in three of the last five innings to take a five run lead going into the last inning. The Coconuts failed to score in the top of the inning so it was all up to Wally's hitters to come through.They did , to some extent, as they put up five runs to tie the game up before the rally was extinguished.. Final score 19-19

Outstanding players

Pete Gutenberg 5-5

Al Miller 4-5

Larry Stringly 4-5

Wayne 4-5

Al 4-5

Rob 4-5

Ed 4-5

Friday , 21 February

Games are on. A little chilly so dress warm. Pool players will warm up on field C.

Fwd: Fw: Wally World vs Over the Hill Gang

Tuesday 2/18/25 The Over the Hill Gang hosted Wallys World today on field B.

The soring started slow as it was only 2-1 the Gang after one. The Gangs bats got hot while the Wallys had trouble scoring17-4, the Gang after four. The Wallys mounted a comeback scoring 3 in the fifth and 6 in the sixth to draw within nine 22-13. The gang scored 5 in the sixth to extend their lead to 27-13. 

The teams decided to end the game after six and go eat rather than start the 7th as one other game was already completed.

Big hitters, the Wallys, Chris Constantine and Larry Striping 4-4, Pete Gutenburger and Jerry Ryan 3-4. The Gang, Fred Dampier 5-5, George Vanderhyde 4-4w, Larry Baker and Bill King 4-5.

Winning Pitcher Arvil Wadell

Mets vs Reds

The Mets jumped out to a 9 run lead early, only to be tied as the Reds scored 9 runs in their catch up inning. The Reds then actually  took the lead and held it for two innings. It must have been Ron Thompsons inspirational speech that motivated the Mets as they put up 18 runs in the last three innings while holding the Reds scoreless in two of the last three innings. Final score Mets 27, Reds 19. Ron Thompson winning pitcher.

Outstanding performances

Juan Toro 4-4 W/ 2 triples and a homer

Mark T 4-4

George Knox 5-5  w/Homer

Gary B 4-5

Bob Z 5-5

Bobby 4-4

John B 4-4

The game between Team Vining and Team Spitalari proved to be the closest game of the day. It didn't look like it would be that way early on as Team Spitalari jumped out to an early lead having scored five runs in the first two innings. Despite scoring in every inning but one, Team Vining found themselves down 21 to 12  going into the bottom of the eighth. They then sent 11 batters to the plate and scored 7 runs to narrow Spit's lead to just two runs. With no one scoring in the ninth, the game ended with Team Spitalari 21 and Team Vining 19. Winning pitcher BJ.

Outstanding performances

Al 5-5

Steve J 4-4 w/homer

Fred D 5-5

Rob 4-5

Dave Rounds 4-5

Bill Rutan 5-5

Joe Letourno 4-5

Jim H 4-5.

Tuesday, 18 February

Games are on. Followed by lunch.

Pool players will warm up on field B.

Many of you have asked about Donnie. His recovery goes well and he had hoped to join us for lunch today. Unfortunately he has a prior commitment but has indicated he plans on joining us Tuesday.

Fwd: Fw: Vining's Braves vs Over the Hill Gang

The Gang came to play with big bats and their hitting shoes 👞 on. They led 17-4 after 6 innings and some were ready to throw in the towel. But coach Vining said this is Senior Softball, play on. The Gang scored 5 in the 7th but The Braves scored 8 in the bottom to pull within 10. The Gang recorded a goose egg in the 8th and Vining took advantage scoring another 6 to make it 22-18 entering the open inning.  The Gang came alive again scoring 6 more and the Braves couldn't muster a single run for a final of Lopez 28 Vining 18. 

TOP HITTERS

Vining.            3-5

Rounds.          4-5

Nunez.            4-5

Soto.               3-4

Hus.                 5-5

Vanderhyde.    5-6

Dampier.           4-4 w/2BB

Ernesto Cruz.   4-5

Baker.                6-6   Winning pitcher

Bill King.            5-6

Escobar.            4-5

Fwd: Fw: Wally's World vs Toro's Reds.

This was a very close game all the way with the difference never being more than 3 runs. Toro was leading 3-2 after 2 innings.  The World took the lead in the 3rd and led until the 7th inning when The Reds tied it up at 14.  Toro's team didn't score again and Wally's World scored 3 in the bottom of the 8th to secure the victory. 

TOP HITTERS

Testa.             3-5

Gutenberger. 4-5

Miller.              3-5

Pepin.              3-3

DeRidder.        3-4

Anderson.       4-5

Raul.                 3-5 w/hr

Nestor.             3-4

Rafael.              3-4

Steve.               2-3 w/2BB

Coconuts vs Mets

Spitalari's Coconuts and LoPicillo"s Mets had a great game today. It was touch and go the entire game as to who might come out on top. The Mets scored five in the first three innings and it appeared that a blow out was in the future. Alas, it was not to be as the Coconuts clawed their way back by scoring 7 in the third inning and adding to that in every inning. The outcome of the game again came down to the last inning, which has been typical this season, with the Mets scoring  5 runs in the ninth. The Coconuts managed only one run on Rob's home run. The final score was Mets 26, Coconuts 22. Winning pitcher Ron Thompson

Outstanding Performers

Fred 4-6

Rob 4-6 w?home run

Steve B 4-5

Gary B 5-6 W/3 walks

George K.5-6W/ 2 triples

Mike R 6-6 w/ sacrifice

Jack A 5-6

Ron F 4-5

Friday, Valentines Day

Games are on. Pool players will warm up on field D. Please be alert when coming to the park as there is ongoing construction along the street.

 

            ***American League Update***

This message is brought to you by Somewhere Sports Bar

On Thursday, February 13, 2025, the American League travel team embarked on an epic journey to Solivita for a thrilling two-game showdown. The first game started off as a snooze-fest, with us trailing 6-1 by the end of the third inning. But fear not, for we rose from the ashes like a phoenix, scoring five runs and tying the game 6-6. With grit and determination, we clawed our way to victory, ultimately triumphing 17-13.

Game two was a rollercoaster of emotions. Tied 6-6 in the second inning, we battled back and forth in a nail-biting showdown. After a fierce competition, we emerged victorious with a close 18-19 win. Laughter, camaraderie, and a few heart palpitations were had by all, and we eagerly anticipate our next match this Monday at 3 pm. Get ready for more thrills, spills, and hopefully fewer nail-biting moments!

Notable hits:

Pat Sullivan Hrs (4)

Bradley Scheirer Hrs (4)

Bill Maxwell Grand Slam

Derrick Lafleur Hrs (2)

Don Fee Hrs (2)

Mike Vaccaro HR.

***

From LGG. 

Late posting of Tuesdays game: Wally's World vs Vining and his Braves

In a game that saw 4 pitchers combine for a total of 15 walks it is no wonder there was not an over abundance of hits. 

Both teams started slow as it was tied 2-2 after 3 innings. Then the scoring started. The final ended up at the Braves 25 and the World 17. 

The hitters. 

Gutenberger.  3-4

Miller.               3-4

Marino.            3-4

Vandenberg.   4-5

Rounds.           3-3

 DeJoung.        4-4

Vining.              3-4

Page.                 3-4

See y'all Friday. 

 

                        ***League Update***

                                               This message is brought to you by Chrocare

I am pleased to announce that Bob Hite has been appointed as the Director of the National League as we transition to Sertoma Park. In his new role, Bob will oversee all equipment, player assignments, and playing rules. With his extensive experience, I am confident that he will excel in this position.

The National League team will be relocating to Sertoma Park/Lake Shipp Park, situated at 1650 Lake Shipp Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880, on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Our games will be held at this location until mid-April.

Please stay tuned for further updates regarding the teams and any rule changes. Thank you for your continued support.

                       ***

LGG

National League Games

Sam Lopez's Over the Hill Gang took on Pat Lopiccillo's Mets in what proved to be interesting game, but not an very exciting one as the outcome was never in doubt after the 2nd inning.  The Over the Hill Gang put up five runs in six of the eight innings and probably could have been more if we did not have the five run rule and the flip flop. Looking over the scoresheet, it showed that every batter on the Over the Hill Gang had at least three hits with five having five hits. Arvil Waddell pitched a great game for the winning team Final Score Team Lopez 34- Team Lopicillo 19.    

 

Outstanding Performances

 

George Vanderwegh    5-6

Fred Deloach                5-6

Gary M                         5-6

Larry                             5-5

George Knox                5-5

Mike Rodriquez             5-5

John Boito                     4-4

 

 

The game between Spitalari's Coconuts and Juan Toro's Reds was unlike any so far this year. While we have seen a number of 9th inning rallys, there hasn't been anything close to the one today. Through eight innings Team Toro had a comfortable 14-8 lead. Team Spitalari sent 25 batters to the plate in the ninth inning (you read it right....25), scoring 20 runs in the top of the inning to take a substantial lead. Team Toro was unable to get the bats going in the bottom of the ninth and so the final score was Team Coconuts 28 and Team Toro  14.

 

Outstanding performances

        

Rob              4-5

Robert         4-5

 

Mark Trutani 4-4

Tuesday 11 February

Games are on. Pool players will take batting practice on Field C.

***Player Appreciation Luncheon***

This Message is brought to you by CPW Services, LLC

 

We are thrilled to announce that the League will host a "Player Appreciation Luncheon" on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, following all games. We want to express our gratitude to all the dedicated players who show up week after week to compete. Join us for a delicious sandwich and some chips as a small token of our appreciation for your commitment to keeping softball alive. We can't wait to celebrate with you all!

Please let your manager know if you are attending and bringing any guests so we can have an accurate count.

 

 

 ***

IMPORTANT LEAGUE NOTICE

This message is brought to you by Ingram Financial Services.

 

Attention, all National League players! Exciting news - there has been a change to the game schedule. Our final day at Diamond Plex will be Friday, February 21, 2025. But don't worry, for those of you who want to keep playing ball, we are relocating the National League squad to Sertoma Park / Lake Shipp Park, located at 1650 Lake Shipp Dr, Winter Haven, FL 33880. Let your manager know if you're interested in playing at this awesome new location. We'll be playing there until the middle of April. Stay tuned for more updates on the teams and rules. Get ready for some epic games ahead!

 

The American League will be moving right across the street from Diamond Plex, and we will be playing right up to the middle of April. Please let me know by next week if you are interested in playing.   

 

***

VOLUNTEERS WANTED

The Polk Senior Games are currently seeking umpires for the upcoming Softball Tournament scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025. The tournament will take place at the Lakeland Southwest Sports Complex located at 1444 West Highland St, Lakeland, FL 33815. Join them for a day of exciting softball action and help ensure fair play on the field!

 

Call or email See Steven Hill for details ((330) 808-1331, ohio1248@yahoo.com). 

The sign-up sheet will be at the desk on Tuesday and Friday.  

Fwd: Fw: Field B

The parity in our league this year seems to be very even as indicated by the number of ties and seesaw 1 run games so far. This one between Wally's World and Lopicollo's Mets followed that up with another close one today. The World started off strong, piling up 11 runs in the first 3 innings and leading 11-5. They then managed 3 back to back to back goose eggs while the Mets kept scoring to take a 16-11 lead with 3 innings left. Wally was trailing 18-17 going to the open inning where Pat's Mets notched a goose egg. Wally and Pepin both singled to start the inning followed by a too hot to handle grounder to 3rd to load the bases by Bill Testa. Pete Gutenberger stepped up and promptly singled to left center for the tying and winning run. 

Outstanding performers

DeRidder 3-4

Outing 3-4

Denny 3-4

Shearer 3-4

Pepin 4-4

Kox 4-5

Sequin 5-5

Fleming 3-4

Wes 3-4

Fw: Last Tuesday/s game, resent

The Toro reds hosted the Lopez Over the Hill Gang today on field B. Today's game was much different from the last time these two teams face each other, when over 70 runs were scored in a one run game. Today the Gang jumped out to a12-2 lead in the 3rd before the Reds could get their offense untracked. The rest of the game was pretty even as the team's traded blows, with both teams adding six runs apiece. The final score was 18-8 the Gang.

Hot hitters. Reds, Pablo Garica and Nestor Aponte 2-3, The Gang. Denny Shaffer and Fred Dampier 3-4.

Winning Pitcher Arvil Waddel

Fw: American League

Today, the American League members gathered on field "A" for an epic showdown! With only 18 players at the start, Tommy Hamilton skillfully crafted a well-balanced team for the competition. Tommy took charge and led the game with determination. Lou's team found themselves trailing 20-10 at the bottom of the seventh inning. But with incredible hitting from the entire team, they managed to close the gap to 20-19 with just one out left. The tension was palpable as Lou's team fought to secure the win, but unfortunately, they fell short and lost 20-19. Despite the outcome, everyone had a blast, and fun was had by all!

Friday 7 February Games

Field C

Team Lopez faced off against Team Spitalari this morning. It proved to be a very Interesting game and outcome to say the least. The outcome was not decided until the last batter came up. I will try to keep the results under wraps for a little while, but Denny Shaffer capped a six run bottom of the ninth inning blast to right field to end the game. Bob's "Coconuts" scored five in the first to take the early lead,as the Bobs getting 3 doubles, a triple, and a two homers along the way, they managed to put up a 20 runs. The "Over the Hill Gang" tried to climb back in it and actually pulled ahead by one run in the fifth. Unfortunately, they then went three scoreless innings and found themselves down by five going into the bottom of the ninth. The "Gang's" first eight batters reached base base in the inning with Denny driving in the winning run. Final score "Over the Hill Gang" 21," Coconuts" 20. 

Outstanding Performances include

Gary M 5-5

Greg 4-5

Larry 4-5

Ernesto 4-5

Fred D 4-5

Rob  4-5 w/2doubles,triple and homer

Bob H 4-4 w double and homer

Winning Pitcher Arvil Waddell

 

 

Friday

Games are on. Pool players take warm ups on field C.

Fwd: Fw: 1-4-25 Field A

Subject: 1-4-25 Field A

Team Vining and Team Lopiciio faced off today in another great contexst.This game was very close all the way with the lead changing hands 4 times and being tied 3 times. The largest lead was 16-12 by team Vining in the 5th inning and the ended up winning 20-19.  Amazingly, this was the 4th game in a row Team Vining has won by 1 run. 

Top hitters

   Rounds.   3-4

   Nunez.     4-5

   Letureno. 4-5

   Puma.       3-4

   Learn.       3-4   Winning pitcher

Fwd: Fw: 2-4-25 Wallys World vs Spitilari

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: b <zelaznycoast@aol.com>
Date: Wed, Feb 5, 2025 at 10:24 AM
Subject: Fw: 2-4-25 Wallys World vs Spitilari
To: ROBERT ZELAZNY <bzelazny@lakeashton2cdd.com>

Sent from AOL on Android

----- Forwarded Message -----

From: "Loren Fabian" <Loren.h.fabian@hotmail.com>

To: "zelaznycoast@aol.com" <zelaznycoast@aol.com>

Cc:

Sent: Wed, Feb 5, 2025 at 9:44 AM

Subject: 2-4-25  Wallys World vs Spitilari

This game also was very close as the final score of 19-19 would indicate. Tha largest lead again was by Wally in the 5th inning by 4 runs. 

Top hitters

   Constantine.  4-5

   Gutenberger.  5-5

   Miller.               3-4

   Pepin.               3-4

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Tuesday 4 February Games

Games are on. Please check at front desk for field assignment as some might change.

Poll players will warm up on field C. Please go to and remain on that field until called by board with your assignment. By going to other fields, you complicate the work for the Board and can delay the start of the games.

Friday 31 January

 

Home team Vining-Braves    vs.   Team Spitaleri-Fighting Coconuts

 

The game started out well for the Coconuts, 5 in the first with shoddy defense by the Braves.  The game continued with the Coconuts scoring 3, then 2 while the Braves were getting 2 here, 2 there.  Score after 5 innings with the Coconuts making some fine defensive plays, Coconuts 12, Braves 7.  But then the tides turned. 

 

The Coconuts were held to 0 runs over the next 3 innings, while the Braves scored 5 to tie the score at 12/12, going into the open inning.  With one out, Rob Reed, hit a 2-run homer, then the Coconuts loaded the bases.  But, the Braves defense came through, holding them scoreless.

 

The Braves came to bat and put the first 2 batters on.  Then Bob Vandenberg came through with a screaming line drive to right center that tied the game at 14 all.  Then, with 1 out Ramon Nunez drove in the winning run with a hit to left field.  What an exciting game!

 

Top Hitters:   Coconuts                                                                   Braves

 

Steve Johnston 5/5                                                                                          Bob Vandenberg 4/5

Rob Reed 3/4; 1BB, 1 HR                                                                     Dave Rounds 4/5

Robert Spitalari 3/4:1BB, 1-3B                                              Ramon Nunez 3/4: 1-2B, 1-SF

B.J. 3/5                                                                                                         Jim Hus 3/3: 1BB

Steve Brennan 3/5                                                                                          Jim Vining 4/4

Gerry (pool player)3/4                                                                    Donna Kavinsky 2/3: 1-2B, 1-BB

                                                                                                                        Jerry DeJong's hit 3Run HR                      

 

1/31/2025 game A

Today the Over the Hill Gang hosted Wallys World on field A.

Wallys World took a 2-0 lead in the bottom 1st, the Gang answered with 5 in the bottom of the inning, making it 5-2, the Gang after one. 

The game was never close after that as Wally World's bats went cold and the Gang's stayed hot. The final score was 19-5 the Gang. 

Big hitters, Wallys World, Pete Gutenberger and Ron Pepin 3-4, Richie Marino and J.D. Davis 2-3. The Gang, George Vanderhyde 5-5, Gary Anderson 4-5 and Arvil Waddel 3-4.

Winning pitcher Arvil Waddel

Tuesday 31 January

Juan Toro and Pat Lopiccilo's team's, aided by some very capable pool players, had an interesting game to say the least. Team Toro broke out  to an early 8 run lead  (it looked pretty bleak at that time) before Pat's team managed to bang out 21 runs and take a ten run lead. While Juan's team only managed ten more runs through the nine innings, there were plenty of chances for them  as they had  multiple runners stranded in almost every inning. In the top of the ninth. Ed Fultz, having come in to relieve Ron Thompson ,managed to strike out three batters in the ninth inning to seal the deal. THe final score was Team LoPiccilo 27-Team Toro 18.

Outstanding performances included

Raul Torres 6-7, 

Jose Cruz 6-6

George Knox 5-6 

John Truchetta 5-6 w/HR 

Friday 31 January

Games are on. National League pool players will warm up on field B.

American League Update.

This message is brought to you by Jarrett Ford.

On January 30, 2025, the American League travel team took on a two-game series at Solivita. The first game kicked off with our team scoring three runs right out of the gate, showing promise for a high-scoring game. Despite putting up a good fight on defense, Solivita ultimately came out on top with a final score of 10-8.

The second game was a different story altogether. Although we started off slow, our team rallied with some powerful hits and three incredible home runs. The game ended with a thrilling victory for us, with a final score of 13-17. What a comeback!

We look forward to seeing that on February.

Home runs.

Bill Maxwell

Lou Guzman

Derrick LaFluy (2)

Bradley Scheirer

From LGG. 

Tuesday Team Vining vs Team Lopez

This was a low scoring game mainly because of very good defense by both teams. After 6 innings, team Lopez led 9-7.  Team Vining scored 4 in the top of the 7th and team Lopez scored 1 in the bottom of the 8th for a final of team Vining 11 and team Lopez