The Men’s 50 + Softball League is one of the hidden treasures in Naperville’s community life.  It’s another reason why Naperville continues to be an attractive place to live, work, and retire.

Fred Yndestad, a Naperville teacher who coached baseball for 20 years, started the league in 1997. He wanted to create a league that was fun and recreational so that men could continue playing as long as possible into their golden years.  Now in its 15th year, the league is still going strong.  Though no longer the director, Fred still plays regularly in the group.

“We have guys from as far north as Palatine, and from Oak Brook, Oswego, Batavia and St. Charles, and Joliet," said Fred.  “We invite everybody and everyone plays.  We don’t have set teams, but just make up new teams each day, depending on who shows up.  The coordinator assigns men to teams so that they are evenly matched, which makes it fairly competitive. It’s just good, recreational fun.  We often go out to Wendy’s or other restaurants afterwards.”

To play in the 50+ Softball League, players need to register with the Naperville Park District. Fees are nominal and are discounted for residents and for those 60 or over.  Games take place at Gartner Park, located at 524 W. Gartner Road on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings from 9:00 – 11:00, starting May 4 and continuing through October 3. On any league day, there may be 2, 3, or 4 teams playing at Gartner Park. With 3 teams, they rotate so that one team is at bat, one team is resting, and one team is in the field.

“The Park District has been good to us over the years,” said Fred. “Program Manager Gary Foiles was instrumental in helping us get 2 pitching screens to protect our pitchers.”

Safety is one of the league’s top priorities. “We have safety rules and equipment to prevent injuries,” said Fred. He explained that no “high tech” bats are allowed, but only single-wall aluminum bats. In addition, they have 2 home plates and 2 first bases to help avoid collisions.  The 2 bases enable runners to aim for the outside base, and the baseman to catch the ball on the inside base.  Players are not allowed to tag runners, only bases.

Many of the softball league participants are active in sports throughout the year. Some play softball all winter in Florida or Arizona and those who stay here for the winter play volleyball and bowl.  The 50+ Softball League hosts an annual Christmas party, as most players are in the Naperville area for the holidays.

New players are always welcome, and with the casual structure, participants can play as often as they like.

The 50+ Softball League is one of the many options in Naperville for those who want to stay active for a lifetime.  For other sports and activities, check our Active Adults programs. Keep in mind that adults 60 and over are eligible for a 20% discount on Park District recreation programs that are not listed in the Active Adults section, including fitness, yoga, dance, and sports programs.

It's almost time for spring softball! Photo from the 2010 Spring Tune-Up Tourney.