Northern Virginia Senior Softball Players Are Still Swinging

by Sarah Golden, Staff Writer

NOVA Senior Softball players continue to share their love of the game. Photo contributed by Alvin Brockway.

As we age, staying active can become more challenging. Joints feel stiff, and moving quickly isn’t as easy as it once was. For some, this means hanging up the metaphorical baseball cap. But for the seniors who participate in Northern Virginia Senior Softball (NVSS), aging means putting on a real baseball cap and getting back on the field.

NVSS is an organization that provides men and women, ages 50 and up, with a way to stay active, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with others. Currently, the league has about 500 members across the DMV, including 75 associate members—individuals who want to be part of NVSS, but either don’t want to or can no longer play softball. These members play essential roles such as scorekeeping, managing, and providing first aid.

Photo contributed by Alvin Brockway.

Regardless of their role, many NVSS members have similar stories. They played baseball or softball as kids, took a break while building careers and raising families, and later found themselves looking for a hobby, a routine, or a way to stay in shape during retirement. That’s where NVSS comes in.

Like many of her fellow NVSS members, Restonian Lori Nelson loves playing sports, but the friendships she has built are the biggest benefit of the league. The sense of community is invaluable, especially for seniors who may lose social connections after leaving the workforce or living alone for the first time in years. While getting outside and playing a game is fun, anyone who has participated in an adult league knows that the post-game camaraderie—often enjoyed at a local happy hour—is just as important. NVSS is no different.

Although NVSS members aren’t professional players and may be there for fresh air and friendly conversation, the league itself is a well-run organization. It has a board of directors, dedicated coaches, established policies, and annual assessments to determine player skill levels. These assessments help place players into one of three conferences—National, American, and Continental—based on skill rather than age or gender. NVSS also offers conditioning and coaching classes for those looking to improve their form and abilities over time.

Managers, such as longtime NVSS member and Restonian Wayne Masefile, help organize the conferences and support their teams throughout the season. As a manager, he oversees on-field activities, ensuring he has enough players for each game and assigning positions. Off the field, he tracks player statistics and liaises with the board.

While assessments are conducted, NVSS welcomes players of all skill levels. NVSS Membership Chair Alvin Brockway encourages newcomers not to be intimidated. The league plays casual slow-pitch softball, making it easy to ease back into the game. If you’re looking for a way to stay active, enjoy the sunshine, and make new friends, visit the NVSS website at www.nvss.org. Inquiries can be sent directly to NVSS.membership@gmail.com.