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SOUTH BRUNSWICK: SBAA moms ‘got game’

By Kim Spinelli, Special Writer
   Moms of the South Brunswick Athletic Association players proved they can do it on the diamond last week during Family Fun Night at Rowland Park.
   Several weeks ago, SBAA Secretary/Webmaster Mark Jiorle, was at his son Sam’s Black 10U Travel Team’s baseball game. Fellow parents, Mrs. Mirian Rodriguez and Mr. Noel Burgos, began talking with him about the upcoming 4th Annual Coaches Baseball Game. The couple asked, “Why don’t we do something for the women?” Mr. Jiorle agreed that was an excellent idea.
   He immediately emailed the SBAA Board, who agreed. League President, Jim Cooney, asked him to “please run with it,” and the first annual Battle of the Moms Softball Game was born.
   On June 16, the game took place at Rowland Park under a picture-perfect sky.
   Twenty-four women “showed their families how it’s done,” as stated on the registration flyer advertising the event.
   ”It was a very enthusiastic response by the board and the players, and a good way to get the whole night started,” said Mr. Jiorle. “Some of the women were coaches, but others were moms who are just as instrumental in making sure their kids get back and forth to their kids’ numerous games and practices. We wanted to recognize the women in particular, and the contribution they make to the program.”
   ”This year we focused on making this more of a family event rather than just a coaches’ game,” SBAA Director of Special Events, Lou Zircher said. “This is our 4th year having this event. New this year was the Battle of the Moms Softball Game. I was extremely pleased with the turnout and the family atmosphere, and very proud of the SBAA organization for all of its hard work throughout the year in making this event happen.”
   He said he felt everyone attending had a good time and that he hoped word of the event would spread throughout the community.
   The event’s flyer invited families to attend “a great, fun-filled evening, with prizes, giveaways, kids’ games, and a Mega 50/50 raffle to benefit SBAA’s Recreation Baseball and Softball Programs.”
   Central Jersey Catering provided “delicious, inexpensive BBQ” and the Snack Shack was open for other food items.
   ”The deejay, Debbie, of Endless Celebrations, was fabulous. Her singing ability (of the National Anthem) and energy were terrific,” said Mr. Zircher.
   The entertainment company led the kids in games such as Twisted Pretzel, Water Balloon Toss, Sack Races, the Banana Relay, dancing to YMCA, and more.
   Attendance and participation were free.
   Lee Brancaccio, Director of Recreation and Travel Softball, coached the Gold Team, while Mr. Tim Culhane, SBAA Associate Board Member, managed Team Black.
   At the end of six innings, Gold beat Black by a score of 7-3.
   However, as the name suggests, fun was the name of the game.
   According to SBAA officials, some of the moms played in high school or college, while for others, it was their first time playing organized softball.
   Team Black player, Karen Rosenblum said she felt invigorated after playing the game.
   ”It was good fun, and all the women displayed good sportsmanship,” Ms. Rosenblum said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
   Others also said the event was fun and allowed the moms to share the spotlight with the coaches, who played their traditional game later.
   Donettte Mabes added, “It was a lot of fun. I’m glad I did it, and it was cool to feel included. Thanks for thinking of us moms, SBAA.”
   Before Craig Steinfeld played in the coaches game, he cheered for his wife, Dawn, who played in the Battle of the Moms Softball Game for Team Gold.
   ”My wife is very excited to play,” Mr. Steinfeld said. “She was recruiting other moms and practiced with a friend this week. I know she’ll do well and have fun.”
   Their son, Jason, 7, who plays on the Junior Farm Rays team that his dad coaches said after the game, “Yeah, Mommy won! I’m so proud of her for playing!” Christine Hutchison of Team Black teased her opponent, Team Gold player, Mrs. Laura Forsythe.
   ”You have a nice and nasty arch (pitch),” Ms. Hutchinson said.
   Both ladies said that after receiving the email from SBAA, they knew right away that they wanted to play. Online registration was quick, easy and free, they said.
   ”We will definitely play again next year,” they said in unison.
   Ms. Forsythe’s son, Austin, plays on the Senior Farm Astros.
   He said, with a smile, “I’m glad my mom played. She did really well, but she should stick to her day job.”
   The SBAA encourages feedback and suggestions, and welcomes sponsors and volunteer participation. For more information, go to sbaabaseball.com.