Age Is Just A Number For Senior Softball Players

Al Hunter has some advice for his teammates in the Anne Arundel County Senior Softball Association.

“You always swing at the first pitch because you might not be around for the next one,” he joked. “A guy our age, you don’t buy green bananas.”

Banter is common at the Bachmann Sports Complex in Glen Burnie, where senior softball players compete. That camaraderie keeps the men coming back to the sport each year, giving them an opportunity to feel young and active.

Teams are named after sponsors: Severna Park Taphouse, Glory Days Grill, Cape Hair Scene & Barber Shop, and others.

Of the roughly 80 players in the league, three 87-year-olds are among those who have been active the longest.

Ken Cline from Lansdowne joined the Anne Arundel County league around the age of 66. Twenty years later, he’ still enjoying the experience and the laughter.

“I used to play for Catonsville,” he said. “This is a good group of guys.”

Dick Baker primarily serves as a catcher but previously played in the outfield. This year, he suited up for the Severna Park Taphouse team.

“It’s a good way to get exercise and to have a great time with the guys,” said Baker, who lives in Glen Burnie.

A pitcher for the Cape Hair Scene & Barber Shop team, Hunter is the third member of the 87-year-old club. He lives near Gambrills and Odenton.

The 2021 season ended in August with Severna Park Taphouse coming in first and Sidelines Sports Bar & Girl finishing second. The Taphouse team included Baker, league commissioner and Arnold resident Mike West, and several other players.

West encourages seniors to sign up in advance of next season. Players must turn 60 or older next year to be eligible.

“Come out and see what you can do,” West said. “Everyone has to hit, and everyone plays in the game somewhere along the line.”

Players are assessed during tryouts each spring, and coaches hold a draft to distribute the talent evenly between teams.

With double bases at first base and with two home plates, the league avoids collisions and limits injury risk.

Baker, who plans to play until he “can’t run anymore,” said senior softball keeps guys alive longer.

“It’s a good way for friendship and to socialize,” Baker said. “You get to meet all of the players’ wives. It brings families together.”

To learn more, contact Mike West at 410-271-2446 or westarnld@verizon.net.