LIBERTY -- For the first time in well over a decade, the sights and sounds of community softball returned to Liberty last Sunday, with six games taking place on two fields (Liberty Elementary School and Liberty High School).

It was opening day for the Liberty Men's Softball League. And when the dust settled, Heavy Hitters presently stands atop the standings with a 2-0 record, while Young Guns and Dominics boasts a 1-0 record, and Jaglife Outdoors and Good Fellas are 1-1.

Games will continue each Sunday through October 11, and playoffs begin on October 18.

The league is run by the Town of Liberty Parks and Recreation Department. According to Liberty Parks and Rec Assistant Recreation Director James Guara, who is also a member of the JagLife Outdoors team, they began discussions to restart the league sometime last year.

“This is the roots of where it started,” said Guara, referring to the softball history in Liberty. “We wanted to bring it back here.”

He noted that they've talked with local residents who have fond memories from their younger days buying ice cream and watching the softball games in town.

Guara added that they also hope it will bring more commerce to the area, as players from all across the county are taking part in the league.

“I think [Opening Day] went super well and better than expected,” said Guara.

Currently, the league is made up of eight teams, and many more have expressed interest. However, Liberty Parks and Rec did not want it to grow too quickly.

The way the games were run, you couldn't tell a pandemic was taking place, although there were many obvious adjustments made.

“As a player, it was difficult,” said Guara. “You want to jump up and high-five someone, but you can't do that. We all respected six-feet distance.”

Spectators and players were indeed spaced out, and enjoyed a beautiful 70-plus degree day full of softball.

“It was definitely getting back in the swing of things,” said Guara. “Having the ability to be outside and enjoy a sport during a pandemic is phenomenal.”

WEEK 1 SCORES

Young Guns 31, Good Fellas 14

Good Fellas 31, American Electric 12

Dominics 23, American Electric 5

JagLife Outdoors 23, Colosseo Dough Boys 16

Heavy Hitters 23, JagLife Outdoors 3

Heavy Hitters 26, T and T 10