SUN CITY – Although the opening ceremonies for the Sun City Softball League introduced players from rivaling teams, many fans in attendance stood and cheered for one in particular.
Players gather to catch a fly ball during the Sun City Softball League’s annual all-star game, played on August 7. Players from the American Division won the game 15–2. (Photo by Hannah Sturtecky/Sun Day)
“A man we can all admire: Pete Karambelas!”
Karambelas, who plays on the Citizens and played for the National Division during the game, was rooted on as the oldest player in the league at the age of 87.
“I appreciated the applause given to me by the fans,” Karambelas said. “One of the [reasons] why I enjoy playing is just so I can show that you can keep playing at this age and be an inspiration to these other guys.”
Once introductions concluded, the National Division, dressed in red, faced the American Division in blue. Players were voted to their teams by their own teammates throughout the regular season. However, it didn’t take long for fans to realize who would be taking home a victory.
The American Division jumped out to a quick five-run lead in the first inning. Although the National Division tacked on a pair of runs by the fourth inning, the American Division wasn’t done yet, scoring another inning-high five runs to take a 10-2 lead halfway through the game.
The American Division went back to work by bringing a 15-2 lead into the end of the seventh inning where Jim Bellemont from the Neighborhood Watch Committee announced the winners of the 75/25 raffle, with first place taking home $223.
Soon after, the American Division held its lead and won by a score of 15-2. Even though his team was blown out, Karambelas still enjoyed the experience.
“It truly was a great honor to play with these guys,” he said.
As for the regular season, Karambelas has aspirations that the Citizens, who are in first place, can finish at the top of the league.
“I think we have progressively been getting better,” he said. “I have high hopes for playing in the championship game.”
