History of Lakeland Senior Softball

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(The following recap has been generously provided by Wayne Mundy, one of Lakeland Senior Softball's founding members).

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Play started in the early 1990s under the direction of Bob Hawley. Hawley was responsible for organizing the league and served as the Commissioner for several years. He was also responsible for working out an agreement with the City of Lakeland for use of its playing fields. Bronco Baltich, a pioneer in the league and a Lakeland civic leader, was instrumental in working with the city.

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It was during this time that the league started working closely with the City of Lakeland in activities for youth players. League players volunteered for the following in exchange for the use of the playing fields: Halloween Carnival, Snowfest and Santa Calling. The City of Lakeland also allowed the league to use the Lake Mirror Center for our March Banquet.

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During the 1990s, the league increased in size at a rapid rate after moving all games to the Southwest Complex.

When the league increased in numbers, the league also had to use Westside Complex to handle 10 teams playing on Monday and Thursday. This was during the winter months and it was when the number of teams had reached its peak.

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It was in 2002 when Lakeland Senior Softball and Winter Haven Senior Softball joined up to sponsor the establishment of the Polk County Senior Softball Hall of Fame.

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 The goal of the Hall of Fame is to recognize those individuals who have contributed to, given of themselves for, or are responsible for the establishment, promotion and continuous operation of senior softball in Polk County.

Selections for this prestigious award will be for individuals (or their affiliations) who are local, out of the area, posthumous or associated with the business community.

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Factors used to determine selection will include (but are not limited to) sportsmanship, fair play, contributions of themselves and to others, attitude, sponsorship and support of and promotion of Senior Softball in our area. Selections are made prior to the end of each calendar year.

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The selection committee will consist of all Hall of Fame members whose decision will be final. All selections will be accepted by approval of not less then a majority of the committee.

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In consideration of the fact that Senior Softball is a major participation sport in our area, and that Senior Softball is ever present and popular, it is with the most pleasurable of interests that this Hall of Fame has been established.