Cape Coral softball players find community through Half Century Plus league

CAPE CORAL, Fla. — A new softball season is underway in Cape Coral. But one league of players is far from Little Leaguers.

The Cape Coral Half Century Plus League is made up of Southwest Florida residents of different ages, genders and walks of life. Players gather twice a week at the Cape Coral Sports Complex to compete and, more importantly, build connections. “These are the hundred nicest people in the whole town of Cape Coral,” said Frank Stella, a league manager and player. “They’re very welcoming to new folks, and they just want to go out there and have some fun and compete on the softball field.”

Whether you are a rookie or a veteran, the league welcomes everyone.

“Every man here is at least 50, and we’ve got a couple of 80-plus-year-olds,” said David Todd, a five-year member of the league. “They’re all just here having fun. They’re competing, but they’re also just enjoying themselves.”

For this group, softball is more than a game. It is a community that proves you are never too old to step up to the plate.

“As we get older, hamstrings get pulled and knees get sore, but everybody just keeps fighting through it. That is why we are here,” Todd said.

The saying “you cannot teach an old dog new tricks” may ring true for some, but members of the Half Century Plus League say there is always room for new players.

“If you are looking for a way to connect with people and you have a little athleticism, or even if you do not, come on out and give it a try,” said David Blasing, a league player.
“Come out,” added league member Robert Lowery. “We are always looking for people. We are always looking for players. The more the merrier.”

The Cape Coral Half Century Plus League begins recruiting for next season in May, but anyone interested can attend batting practice on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5 to 6 p.m. to meet current players.