Devoted players, fans and families experienced Softball Nirvana in Maplecrest Park, on Sunday. Starting at 10 a.m. and lasting well into dusk, the day was filled with non-stop softball events on two active fields.

The senior division championship game between Swirl Wine Events and Mack-Cali was an epic battle, going into extra innings before a bases-loaded single turned the game in Swirl Wine Events’ favor. The final score was 5-4.

While the score wasn’t as tight as in the Senior division’s game, the Junior championship contained some drama as well. The Village Trattoria team bested Anthony Garubo 5-1. Village Trattoria’s effort was led by pitcher Sofi Garaban, who threw her second post-season no hitter in the game.

When the day began, though, softball didn’t look like an option. After the heavy wet weather of the past days the park and its three ball fields looked like a soggy bog. Dedicated Recreation department staff, coaches and parents successfully restored two of the three fields to playable condition.

From the early morning T-Ball Round Robin Tournaments, to the late morning and afternoon Junior and Senior Division playoffs, the Park was a hub of constant activity.

Along with the games of the day, sponsors served a menu of ballpark favorites, BSA Eagle Scouts sold pre-owned ball gear, patrons donated items for local Food Banks, and MapleWoodstock and the MSO Softball League sold T-shirts, with all proceeds meant to be donated to local charitable and community causes.

Kudos to all the athletes and community supporters who continue to foster the tradition of youth sports activities in the South Orange/Maplewood communities.