‘That’s worth celebrating’: seniors slow pitch league marks player’s milestone birthday

Sommerfeld was the league’s first secretary treasurer 35 years ago. He says when he started, fees were $20 a year and players used old balls during game.

“I asked them to up the fee to $30,” said Sommerfeld. “So we played with one new ball and hopefully we wouldn’t lose that ball.”

Sommerfeld has been involved in the ball club ever since. He has always been a player, but at times has been on the executive board and in coaching roles. His 35 years in the league brings knowledge and experience, but it’s his competitive drive that keeps him coming back to the diamond.

“Having played with him for five years I can tell you he expects the best out of you because he expects the best of himself,” said Black. “So as a leader, he leads by example.”

There are 12 teams in but Sommerfeld doesn’t see the separation between them. For him, it’s just one big club.

“I think most of the fellas participate because of the fellowship and the fun you can have,” Sommerfeld said. “When the game is over, it’s over. So, you just play for the fun of play and play as hard as you can.”

While Sommerfeld plays as hard as he can every two days and says the games provide him with regular exercise, the people are the heart of the league for him.

“I lost my wife a few years ago, and you need support,” said Sommerfeld. “I get a lot of support from the fellas, and I just really appreciate it.”

Black says Sommerfeld used to be an excellent pitcher but has moved to catcher, a position he continues to shine in. He doesn’t shy away from the ball, and his love of the game is evident every time he steps up to the plate.

“I’ve been told many times that I’m an inspiration,” said Sommerfeld. “I don’t mean to be, but just the fact that I’m still playing and running the bases.”

A few years ago the distance between bases was expanded by a few feet adding a extra challenge for some of the players, including Sommerfeld. He says while he can’t play like he used to, he is thankful to still be playing at all.

“Unfortunately for some of us the league is becoming younger, more young fellas are coming in and some of the old fellas are dropping off,” said Sommerfeld. “I guess I’ve been too stubborn to drop off.”

Before the season began, Sommerfeld was asked if he would still be playing. His approach was to take it day by day and see how he was doing. It’s the same approach he takes when looking ahead to next season.

“If I’m still well and I’m still here, I’ll probably play next year,” laughed Sommerfeld.

by Meghan Cobb

‘That’s worth celebrating’: seniors slow pitch league marks player’s milestone birthday

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