The Manheim Church Softball League will celebrate its 50th year of slow-pitch softball on Saturday, June 24, with fun for the whole family. The celebration will take place at the league's main field, the pool field located adjacent to Manheim Central High School, 400 E. Adele Ave.

"We're calling this All-Star Saturday," said Mike Givler, president of the league. "We'll have two all-star games as well as a home run derby and a reunion game."

The reunion game will kick off the festivities at 2 p.m. "This is open to alumni of the league, and it's basically an old-timer's game," Givler said. "It's an opportunity for players who no longer play to relive their glory days." The first all-star game will be held at 3:30 p.m., followed by the 5 p.m. home run derby for church league players. The second all-star game will begin at 6:30 p.m. "Each team is picking three all-stars from their team for the games," Givler explained.

Along with the games, a variety of food trucks will be on-site, with food available for purchase by donation. The expenses for the food trucks are being covered by an anonymous donor, Givler said, and all donations will benefit the Home on Ferdinand and Teen Central in Manheim.

There are currently 17 teams in the league, from churches in towns throughout the county, including Manheim, Elizabethtown, East Petersburg and Bird-in-Hand. Although the league is celebrating its 50th anniversary of slow-pitch, it actually began 70 years ago as a fast-pitch league, Givler said, adding, "I believe we are one of the longest continually running softball leagues in the state."

Over the years, the league has produced a few famous alumni, including Chris Heisey, who played Major League Baseball for the Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Dodgers and Washington Nationals from 2010 to 2017.

Givler, who typically plays an infield position, also serves as a league umpire and has been a member of the league since 1985. "I like to compete, but I also like the fellowship and camaraderie of the players and churches," he said. He also credits the league's longevity to the support of a group of volunteers. "This league doesn't happen year after year without lots of people helping," he stated. "From making schedules, to the umpires, to having the teams ready to go night after night, there are just so many great people in this league."

All-Star Saturday is an opportunity to not only focus on the league and its history, but also honor the game and give back to the community, Givler said. "It's going to be a great community event, with good food and fun," he stated. "You're going to see some really talented softball players, and you'll be able to see some players from yesteryear try to shake off the rust and come out and play."

For more information on the league, including a complete history, visit https://tinyurl.com/3m2z576y.