For these fun-loving seniors, softball is a hit

There’s always room for more players, and friends, in the Marion County Senior Softball program.

By Andy Fillmore Correspondent

Rob Minter, a dialysis patient awaiting a kidney transplant, was right where he wanted to be Friday morning: on second base at Ocala’s Ralph Russell Park.

Minter, 50, a former strong safety on the Marshall University football team, is one of about 55 current participants in Marion County Senior Softball (MCSS), a program, open to men over 50 and women over 45. There are no tryouts or qualifications necessary.

The group plays Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to about 11 a.m. at Ralph Russell Park, at 1690 Pine Road.

Minter said playing in the program, along with diet and gym workouts, has helped him lose 40 pounds.

“It’s important when I get on the operating table,” Minter said.

He said he hopes to get a donor kidney within three years.

Nicole Martin, Minter’s fiancé, encouraged him from a sideline fence. Martin said playing with MCSS “helps (Minter) and (keeps) his spirits up.”

Minter said he likes the camaraderie and the encouragement the players share even when mistakes are made during a game.

“There’s a lot of (mutual) support,” he said, noting that at least one player has added him to his church’s prayer list.

George Haralson is the program’s liaison with Marion County Parks and Recreation.

“The common thread in the program is the camaraderie,” Haralson said.

He explained in an email what sets this program apart from others.

“Potential players are often discouraged because of the requirement(s) most leagues have,” he said. “MCSS allows all seniors to play regardless of their experience or talent.”

In 2014, the Golden Seniors Softball League, which was founded in 1989 in Marion County, disbanded, and Marion County Parks and Recreation formed the MCSS.

Gary Luscombe, 83, has played in senior leagues for about 20 years. He has had multiple surgeries including knee and rotator cuff operations at UF Health Shands Hospital.

“Play one time, and you get hooked,”