Seattle Press on Line - Senior Ballplayers Anything But Soft

Senior Ballplayers Anything But Soft

By Joe Hagen

Ron Trebon crosses the alternate home plate while Royal Price waits for his turn at bat. Joe Hagen photo.

Jun 06, 2002 -- On diamonds across America, both kids and adults enjoy the softball throughout the summer. Unlike many sports, softball is known as a lifetime game. And a Seattle team is showing that it can be played--and played well--at any age.

The Wallingford Senior Center slowpitch softball team is in first place after the first six games in the Pro Recreation 55+ Co-ed League. In existence since the early '80s, the league features 13 teams, each playing a 24-game schedule from May to August. Teams are located in the southern and eastern suburbs. The Wallingford squad is the only team in Seattle.

While this may sound like a typical softball league, there are some noticeable differences. Though young at heart, these players can't be as carefree as their youthful counterparts. They are aware of the increased risk of injury that comes with more years. "Not all of us exercise year-round, and at this age, the bodies aren't in the shape they used to be," says sixth year player Ron Trebon.

In order to be cautious but still enjoy the game, several rules have been changed to minimize contact and, thereby, danger of injury. Upon a close inspection of the diamond, people will notice a second home plate. While strange to the eyes, the additional plate lets players avoid collisions and the need for sliding. On a close play at home, the baserunner is required to touch the "throw-down" plate, while the catcher must simply have possession of the ball and touch the other plate before the runner arrives. The first base area also has two bags, one for the runner and one for the fielder.

In addition, no tagging is required, and runners are allowed to overrun every base, not just first (which is the standard rule of play). As long as the baserunner stays within four feet of the bag while passing, he is safe. Also, the defense consists of 11 fielders, using five outfielders instead of the traditional three.

But different rules aren't what really make the league unique. Bonnie Hehman, who served as scorekeeper for the May 30 game against Auburn, jokes that players have occasional "senior moments."

"Once in awhile, an infielder will get hit by a ball while not paying attention,"" she says.

The Seattle team includes players of all ages, skill levels and experience. Many members of the team have been around softball or baseball with children or grandchildren. "I never played much softball before," said first-year player Kathy Laughery. "But I have four sons who all loved baseball growing up, and made me play catch with them from time to time. I think I got some of their genes, if that's possible!"

Dave Baab, a Seattle periodontist, is also finding time to play in the league after raising avid baseball players. "I coached my kids through Little League, now it's my turn!" he says.
While they obviously enjoy the game, the players take their games seriously, notes volunteer umpire Jim Sherman. "I've been amazed to see how competitive these players are," he says. "A lot of them are really aggressive, and want to win."

Wallingford Senior Center director Ruth Herold appreciates the positive impact the team has had since she started playing in 1997. "There is really a lot of mutual support between the center and the players," she says. "People on the team often end up volunteering at the center. And at least once a season we take a van to a game so that other members can watch their team."

The Seattle team is probably enjoying this season even more than most. An 18-10 win over Auburn put the group's record at 6-0 to start the season. After finishing last year around the middle of the pack, it has established itself as the team to beat.

"We have some good young players this year. Of course, when I say young, I mean anyone under 60!" says Trebon. "It looks like we'll be all right this year if we keep doing what we're doing."

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