By Christine Bryant
Staff Writer
For those wanting to recreate fond memories from their childhood, the city of Reynoldsburg has a new opportunity for adults.
The Parks and Recreation Department is starting an adult co-ed kickball league, with games slated to begin later this summer.
“We want to recreate that fun for the adults so that we can continue to offer up new and innovative programs that the entire Reynoldsburg community can enjoy,” Recreation Superintendent Chris Skidmore said.
Through July, the city will accept team registrations for adult co-ed kickball. Participants will play games on Thursday nights at JFK Park in Reynoldsburg after 6 p.m. Teams will play a 10-game regular season and compete in an end-of-season tournament, receiving a trophy for first and second place in both the regular season and tournament.
Organizers first brainstormed about offering a new adult sports league and came up with the idea of offering kickball this summer because of its inclusiveness and the fact it requires little equipment or past experience.
“We felt it would be well received given the recreational nature of the sport and setting the league up as co-ed,” Skidmore said. “We all have great memories of playing kickball during recess in our younger years.”
Teams may register in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at the Parks and Recreation Department office, 7232 E. Main St., second floor, through July 31. Teams may have up to 11 participants playing in the field each inning, but are required to have at least four female players. Players must be 18 years or older.
“At least four women and a minimum of eight players total must take the field together for an official game,” Skidmore said. “I recommend roster sizes of about 15 or so to ensure there are always enough subs should someone have to miss a game.”
Teams do not have to live in Reynoldsburg to participate.
“Whether it is a neighborhood, church, business, family or just a group of friends, it is a great way to stay active and have fun,” Skidmore said.
Though the city is only accepting team registrations at this time, Skidmore said organizers will do their best to assist individual players by adding them to a free agent list.
“The free agent list is then provided to the captains of each team to help fill in any needed roster spots,” he said.
Teams will need to provide a uniform, though in other leagues, teams have sought a local business sponsor to help offset the costs of the shirts, Skidmore said. The Reynoldsburg Parks and Recreation Department will provide all equipment.
For information, contact Skidmore at (614) 322-6878.
