The Steel City Softball League will kick off its 22nd season with its annual “Spring Training” event for new and returning members. The purpose of spring training is to review the basics of softball competition and to determine the skill levels of new players for proper placement within the SCSL’s competitive and recreational divisions. Workshops will be held April 5 and April 12, 1:30-4pm, at the West Penn fields in the city’s Polish Hill neighborhood; directions and rain dates are listed on the SCSL Web site. Spring training is open to everyone and offers an opportunity to meet SCSL members; there is no obligation to join the league.
The league will host its pre-opening day bash and fund-raiser at Donny’s Place on April 26, 5-9pm. For a $10 donation, supporters will enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet that includes two beverages, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes.
The SCSL’s 2003 season officially begins April 27. Teams returning this season include the Cougars, the Hardballs, Just Donny’s, the Mavericks, the Peacocks, the Rogues, the Shepherd Boys and the Wolves.
SCSL members will be on hand at the annual Memorial Day picnic in North Park to assist with admission, parking and security. Other upcoming SCSL activities will include the league’s third annual trip to a Pirates game and its annual variety show at Pegasus; both events are planned for late June. The SCSL ends it season with an annual awards banquet in September.
The SCSL is a member of the North American Gay Amateur Athletic Alliance, an organization of gay and lesbian softball teams in member cities throughout the United States and Canada. SCSL teams the Hardballs, Just Donny’s and the Rogues plan to participate in the 2003 Gay Softball World Series in Washington, DC, Aug. 17-24.
In preparation for its 22nd season, the SCSL hosted membership drives at local gay and lesbian nightspots throughout March. Individuals still interested in signing up for the 2003 season can visit the SCSL Web site at http://members.aol.com/scslpgh/, send e-mail to scslpgh@aol.com or call the SCSL hotline at 412-683-7676.