Ben Murphy
Contributing Writer
(Photo provided)
Charlotte youth have had the opportunity to take part in recreational softball programs for the last four years. They have taken full advantage of that as they have seven teams and over 100 total participants as they strive to keep the game thriving in the area.
“We are excited to partner with our high school program to better align the fundamental development of our rec program to prepare girls for their future high school opportunities while making it a positive experience for all girls,” Charlotte assistant athletic and recreation director Michael Sparks said. “Our coaching objective is to instill a passion for softball that keeps the girls coming back and playing year after year.”
The program is run through the Charlotte school district and a part of Oriole Youth Recreation (OYR). Thay have one 8U, two 10U and two 12U teams that take part in the Mason Girls Fastpitch Softball League. They also have two teams that play 14U in the Delhi Township League.
“This offering was previously administered through the CJO (Charlotte Junior Orioles) however, after (the COVID-19 pandemic) the folks who ran the softball portion of CJO no longer had kids that were participating and since CJO is strictly a volunteer program there were no other volunteers to take the lead on the softball program, so we began the offering through the OYR.”
Practice typically begins in late April or early May, and they begin games shortly after Memorial Day. Younger age groups play eight-to-10 games, older groups compete in eight-to-10 doubleheaders, and they all have an end of season tournament held in mid to late July.
“It helps with being able to play after the high school season has taken place, it is different from travel ball, mostly local teams and significantly less costly,” Sparks said. “The focus is definitely on players skill development and knowledge of the game. We will develop a skills checklist by age group in the near future.”
While some athletes spend much of their summer playing travel ball, this program through the OYR allows a better atmosphere for development and costs far less to take part in.
“It is less expensive, no significant travel, all games are during the week in the evening, we focus on skill development and playing with girls from our community and school to develop teamwork etc.,” Sparks said.
It also creates a perfect pipeline for athletes, giving them an early insight on what it will be like to compete for Charlotte athletics.
“Our hope is that we instill a passion for softball and personal skill development, most importantly we want every participant to have a positive experience and come to realize the importance of good sportsmanship and teamwork,” Sparks said.
