To All Softball Gentlemen:

When I was twelve years old, I never knew there was such a thing as Senior Softball nor did I care. I probably never heard of the rites of spring either.

As the winter finally begins to fade there is something we all look forward to and that is the beginning of another season of Monmouth Senior Softball. I have been privileged to play in this league for the past four years and I am ready to begin another. To be honest with you all, I really did not want to play the year I turned fifty years of age as "Marvelous" Marvin tried to recruit me. I said to myself Senior Softball is not for me.

I think that is because we need to rename it and call it Superior Softball or Sensational Softball. You see this league is unique with a cast of interesting characters starting of course with our fearless leader and president, Vince "Invincible" Mango. Then there is the Master schedule creator Lou "Lombo" Lombardi. There is also the "How to do it Man" Howie Marlin. One of the past presidents is Mike "Mad Dog" Weiner. And, of course, no meeting is ever complete without Emil "Evil Knievel" Jennette.

There is in our illustrious league twelve fireball teams and every one of them has their own unique style and personality. This year will prove to be an interesting and fun time as the tireless twelve teams battle for supremacy and respect.

The league actually features three divisions within itself and there are basically three division winners at season end. We call them A, B and C teams but I think Majors, Colonial and Minors would be more appropriate. You see the real reason grown men keep playing softball is to be that young boy who played little league or caught with his Dad. What I have learned in this past fours years is that, when we all get out on the field, we are ten, eleven and twelve years old again playing ball with our comrades and buddies and even a rivalry or two.

This year I encourage everyone who plays to be a kid again and enjoy every swing at the plate, every catch in the field and most of all, every moment of Super Senior Softball.

Here is to a Great Season Ahead and The Rites of Spring!

Neil “Pipe” Piper