They may be in the autumn of their years, but for the next few months they’re the boys of summer.
Oxford’s newly formed Slow Pitch Senior Softball Team is rounding the bases and leaving its competition sobbing in the dugout.
Last week, Oxford opened the season by thrashing Waterford Kennedy Optical 25-2 and stomping the Clarkston Cardinals 13-2. On Monday, Oxford split a double-header against the Lake Orion Lakers, losing the first game 9-8 and winning the second 13-6.
‘I think the chances are good we’ll be playing for the league championship,? said Bill Devine, Oxford’s coach and manager. ‘I feel they have the potential, no question about it.?
Oxford’s team consists of 14 players between the ages of 55 and 69. The average age is 61.
‘We’re a strong team,? Devine said. ‘We’re very competitive. These are good players.?
Sponsored by Tool, Sport & Sign Co., The Oxford Tap and the Oxford Township Parks and Recreation Department, the team will play a total of 28 games from May 8 through August 9. Then it’s on to the playoffs.
‘They have a real shot at it,? Devine said.
A maximum of 18 players can be on a team’s roster, so Devine is looking to add four more men ? or women ? age 55 or older. This will help offset the impact of summer vacations or possible injuries. ‘It’s a long season,? Devine said. ‘I’d like to have more players.?
Anyone interested in playing can contact Becky Paquin at (248) 628-1720