Root, root for the veterans

The blazing, afternoon heat was not enough to keep veterans from taking the field in Sun City’s third annual veterans softball game.

Taking place Saturday, June 29, at Eakin field, this weekend event provided attendees a fun experience while working to support a great cause. Event Organizer, Glenn Groebli, has been in charge of running the veterans softball game since 2016. This year, Groebli planned to use proceeds to build a memorial dedicated to all veterans.

“We started to honor the veterans about three years ago. I thought that it’s time that we also go beyond just having a softball game and festivities and take the money that we earn off of that and work it towards a lasting memorial. That’s our goal,” he said.

Army veteran, Phil Haugens, is also familiar with the significance this game has brought to the community. He’s been a part of the game for all three years as well as been highly involved in the organizing of the events.

Haugens explains, “I think this is great where we get everyone together and everyone is happy and we all come to a common goal, and that’s the flag and the people who serve. Some people couldn’t and that’s fine, but we’re all Americans and that’s the name of the game.”

This year’s game included over 50 participants from four branches of services (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines). Veterans were given a free shirt and hat, while attendees were treated to free food and beverages with the opportunity to participate in the 50-50 raffle for prizes including, two 20-inch bikes and outdoor tents, or make donations of their own.

From professional singer, Kimburlee Burhans, singing the National Anthem to Huntley radio show, 101.5, announcing the game, there was no shortage of entertainment and most importantly community engagement.

Miss Huntley 2019, Deepa Dhillion, even made an appearance as part of her rein in participating in various community events.

“I think it’s a really cool event to have here just to come out and support the veterans and show how much we appreciate them and just have a fun softball game. I think it’s really bringing the community together, really bringing the veterans together and just letting us all have a good time together,” she said.

Navy veteran, Alan Scott, couldn’t agree more. Having retired to Sun City in 2004, Scott has been participating in the annual softball games since the beginning.

“The socialization and the comradery are important parts of staying young and doing this and being part of the field crew is a lot of fun,” he said.

While veterans are always welcomed to participate in the game, Groebli emphasizes that every veteran should come out to enjoy the event whether they want to play or not.

Groebli said, “What the people of Sun City have to realize is that we try to get the word out to them that we want all vets, not just the ones that play softball. It’s very important for them to come out here and be recognized, because it is for veterans whether they play softball or not.”

The veterans softball game is unique in that it includes a win for all veterans. The fun but short game was eventually ended at the fourth inning due to the extreme heat. This didn’t stop the veterans from putting on a good game for all of their fans.

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