Optimist Park Where Friendships Develop

By: Shelia Mader

This Saturday, April 4, 27 teams will take the fields at Optimist Park for another exciting Opening Day of baseball and softball. The park will be alive with players, parents, grandparents, siblings, and fans of all ages, all coming together to celebrate the start of a new season.

For most of these players, this is more than just a game. They are classmates, friends, neighbors, and church buddies. During rec season, they may line up in different dugouts and compete against one another, but when the season is over, they are all part of the same community again.

That is what makes rec ball special. Children have a way of reminding us that competition is temporary, but friendships last. Win, lose, or draw, when the final out is recorded, they go right back to being teammates in life.

And when the regular season ends, 12 players will be chosen for All-Star competition from each league, where they will represent Marianna with the chance to compete for district and state championships.

If you are unable to make Opening Day, the season continues Monday with games on multiple fields Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. From Tee-ball to Ozone and Ponytail, there will be no shortage of action at Optimist Park.

This season, come out and support the players, the families, and the friendships that make this park such an important part of Marianna. Show the members of the Optimist Club your appreciation for a park they’ve poured blood, sweat and tears into for your enjoyment.

Let’s Play Ball!