The Kauai Senior Softball League will open its 49th season of play this Saturday, Jan. 28, at the Bryan Baptiste Sports Complex in Kapaa. Opening ceremonies will start at 8:45 a.m. with greetings from local and state dignitaries, followed by the opening pitch ceremony.
Opening the season with the first pitch will be represented by four players who will turn 80 this year: Jack Lucas (DaKruzers), Ben Aranio (West Kauai), Hank Nishikawa (Rookies), and Daniel Manus (West Kauai).
This year’s league has expanded to 13 teams, with the new team Islanders, coming from Hanamaulu and coached by Joe Bertucci. Kauai will now have the same number of teams as Maui, with Big Island having 24 teams and Oahu with 17 teams. With over 200 senior players, this is one of the largest ongoing activity for our kupuna.
“Kauai’s active seniors continue with another season of softball. The ball players are often retired from leading government, business, and professional endeavors. Some are still employed, and having fun and recreation with this League activity. We look forward to another great season,” said Mike Curtis, league president.
This year’s league officers are incumbents, President Mike Curtis; Vice President Sia Salausa; Secretary Jed Somit; Treasurer Stephen Fujii; and League Manager Jeffrey Kimoto.