Adult softball games begin

Hot Springs County Recreation Adult Softball is currently in season with only three teams playing.  Those teams are One Eyed Buffalo, Robin Batsman and One Stop Sparkplugs.

Anja Abbott, Recreation Director, reported that on Thursday, June 11, One Eyed Buffalo won the first game against Robin Batsman at 6:30 p.m., and One Stop Sparkplugs won the second game at 7:45 against Robin Batsman.

The regular season will last to the end of June with the three teams facing off at their scheduled times. On June 30 at 7:45 p.m. will be the Homerun Derby. Afterward, the postseason begins on July 2nd leading to the Championships on July 9th.

Abbott said the reason for the few numbers of teams this year was due to that other potential players did not want to play with the COVID-19 regulations in place. This year there were the normal softball rules as expected, but the County Health Office added additional regulations to the playing.

For example, all players, umpires, and staff must adhere to 6-foot social distancing while entering the Ballfield Complex.

The participants must conduct a daily symptom evaluation, anyone experiencing symptoms must stay home. Players must adhere to 6-foot social distancing both on and off the field of play.

Umpires will be required to wear a mask at all times and will give 6 feet of social distancing from players and each other whenever possible. They must avoid unnecessary contact with players.

Spectators will not be allowed in the complex. Fans will be allowed to watch from within their vehicles should they choose. Spectators must remain inside their vehicles for the entire duration of the games.

Also, dugouts will not be in use. Instead, spaces will be clearly marked for each player outside of the field along the respective fences.