Lights installed for girls softball at Little League

The boys have had lighted fields for 35 years, now the girls softball field is illuminated as well.Little League board member Kelly Williams, who has been active in fund raising for the light project, said, “It’s exciting for the girls because who doesn’t want to play under the lights, right? But also it gives them a sense that they are important. That they are being recognized for their unique contributions and worth. It’s why we chose this quote on the plaque when we dedicated the field ‘These lights, and the belief that all sports should be treated on the basis of equality, were made possible through the generosity of the Kosuga Foundation.’” The Kosuga Foundation’s grant of $100,000 in March of 2024 started the ball rolling. Later in the year, the town board of Goshen kicked in an additional $75,000 making the dream a reality. Williams said, “I would say there was a definite sense that softball wasn’t as important as baseball. I really joined the board to try and bridge that gap and see if we could highlight some of the great things they were doing.” The lights allow the girls to expand their scheduling options and host tournament games in the fall. Williams said, “We have won two Harvest Cup championships and been in four district championships over the past few years and we’ve never been able to host a game. We are always forced to play away games and now we can host some home games.” In addition to her own efforts, Williams credited Little League President Rob Fitzpatrick and Board Member Mike Antolino as spearheading the project, which has been 10 years in the making. At an April 25 ceremony Fitzpatrick said, “This is about more than lights. It’s an investment in the youth of Goshen.”