History

The Cindy La Rue Co-Rec Softball League was originally formed in 1980 among Columbia’s villages.  The program is “non-competitive”–we’re out to have fun and socialize within an athletic setting, not to try to win at all costs—the only such program in Howard County.

The original intent of the league was to encourage people within a village to get to know each other by joining a group activity; also, the program would encourage people from one village to meet folks from other villages in a friendly atmosphere.  After more than 30 years, we still have teams representing such villages as Owen Brown, Long Reach, Hickory Ridge, Kings Contrivance, and River Hill.

We stressed the “non-competitive” aspect of the league to entice couples to participate, especially those who had not played since high school or college or those a bit older whose kids have left the nest.  Playing ability is secondary.  We have many young couples who bring their tiny tots and older children to the games; we also have couples in their 50s and 60s who enjoy non-strenuous exercise. Although we keep score, maintain team standings, have colorful team jerseys, and self-umpire the contests, the outing is really more of a social event.  We’re the cheapest way to play softball in the area, with games from May to August.  We end the season with a big picnic (food for all and plenty of games for the kids) and the awarding of plaques to team members who exemplify the spirit and enthusiasm of our program.

We play our games at Wilde Lake Middle School on Sunday afternoons.  The official (incorporated) name of the league is the Cindy La Rue Co-Rec Softball League, in memory of a former player who was tragically murdered at her work site.  Cindy represented what our league is all about: an exuberant personality who enjoyed participating each week and who came to play hard, make friends, and have fun.