The Englewood adult softball league is back, and it’s not just about the game. Kelly Williams runs the nonprofit and makes sure the league brings people together while supporting youth in the area. In the past, they have raised $2,200 for the Miss Englewood Stingrays. Giving back isn’t an afterthought; it’s the heart of what they do.
On September 26th and 27th, the league is hosting a charity tournament for the Lemon Bay High School swim team. Nichole Reyes, whose daughter is a senior swimmer, took charge of the fundraising. The swim team gets hardly any money for its season, so Nichole and the softball crew stepped up. The event features a coed tournament on the 26th, followed by a men’s tournament on the 27th. You’ll find concessions, raffle baskets, vendors, everything you need to help boost the team’s funds. Every dollar goes toward travel, new swim gear, uniforms, and more.
But this group is more than just softball. Listen to what the members say about what the team means to them, and to Englewood.
Kelly Williams, President and Coach, puts it simply: “Where I found my people, lost my patience, spent all my free time, and somehow wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Nichole Reyes, Security and Coach, shares her perspective: “Some people go to therapy. I go to the softball field. It’s not about wins and losses—it’s about escaping life for a while, finding peace between the lines, making memories, and being around people who turned into family.”
Coach Kenny Laymance keeps it light: “Play hard, have fun, compete and keep the good vibes!! YOLO.”
Derek Richardson, Security, gets to the heart of it: “If you want to be remembered, don’t just play the game. Leave everything you have on the field, lift your teammates up, and make every moment count.”
Here’s to another incredible season, on and off the field.
For information go to https://sportsplus.app/public/6518/schedule or check out their Facebook page Englewood Adult Softball League, Inc.
