EMASS Senior Softball League Opens Player Registration for 2024 Season

Eastern Massachusetts Senior Softball (EMASS) is opening its annual registration campaign for slow-pitch softball players age 50 and older. With almost 500 members, the league attracts players from towns across Eastern Massachusetts with games played primarily in Wayland, Medfield, and Framingham. The EMASS season runs from late April through late September, including Playoffs. Interested players can register for the EMASS 2024 season at https://e-mass.org/current-programs.

EMASS has six divisions that accommodate a range of skill levels, two that play on Saturday mornings and four on weekday mornings. EMASS has many seniors in their fifties and sixties who can still hit a ball over a 300-foot fence, run down a deep drive in the outfield or turn a double-play in the infield. There are other divisions in which players whose talents may have diminished over time can enjoy playing with similarly skilled friends.

Community, Sportsmanship, Competition...in That Order

"We are a community of folks who recognize how lucky we are to be able to play a game we love at the age we have attained and at a level that matches our abilities ? in a community of like-minded players who become friends," said Steve Bober, new Commissioner of EMASS.

"I joined EMASS when I retired and really didn't know a single person," offers Joe Groden, an EMASS Division coordinator. "Six years later, it's become one of the best things I've ever done. I love playing softball, but far and away the best thing about being part of this community has been the number of friends I've made. This is truly the essence of the experience."

EMASS adds about 60 new players each year. "We shuffle up team rosters every year in all divisions to enhance connections across our large softball-loving community," said Rich Goldberg, a Division Coordinator. "Our members enjoy competing with and against their friends."

"You get to know players on a personal level," said Division Coordinator James Hulbert. "These friendships can expand, providing opportunities like playing in tournaments or going to Cuba to play in a friendship series. Whether you just want an outlet for fun and exercise or you want to build some new friendships, there's something for everyone."

Retired Or Not, Players Love A Weekly Physical Outlet

EMASS players cherish their weekly double-headers. The three-hour escape to the ballfield is a high point of camaraderie, teamwork and healthy outdoor competition.

"Hitting and fielding a softball and being on a team is fun and can help promote good health. When your health routines are fun, you make them a priority," said Walker Royce. "Some seniors are hesitant to play because their knee hurts or they are carrying too much weight. Every Senior Softball player has similar complaints. Aches and pains are easily tolerated when they are offset by the joy of playing and competing with friends. And at a cost of roughly $5 per game, there's no better value for healthy recreation."

About EMASS Senior Softball League

EMASS was founded in 1995 and offers active seniors of all skill levels a safe, well-organized opportunity to play competitive softball. Players can sign up for a division featuring players with similar abilities. With two Saturday divisions and four weekday divisions, players can play at a level that is most comfortable for them. All divisions play a double-header each week and many members play on different teams in multiple divisions.

For more information about EMASS Senior Softball League, visit www.e-mass.org.