By Finley Timon EDITORIAL INTERN
Big Sky Community Organization hosted its annual Ladies of the League game on July 30 at the Big Sky Community Park, welcoming women from across the area for its fourth annual all-women’s game.
The exhibition has become a staple of the league’s summer calendar. Open to both current league players and community members, the event highlights and encourages increased participation from women in Big Sky’s co-ed softball league.
While many players wore their respective team uniforms, it was clear they came together to support one another, regardless of which roster they typically play for. Team rosters were drawn using a playing card system, randomly splitting participants into two mixed teams.
The event was created to spotlight the women in the league, many of whom do not typically play in prominent positions during regular season games.
“They’re not always out front in front of everybody,” said longtime league leader “Queen Jean” Palmer. “But we always cheer for the ladies, no matter what team they’re on.”
Two home runs were recorded during the game, one by Christy Tran and the other by Erin Iwamoto.
“It’s just a good time to come out and spend time with the ladies,” Tran said. “There’s not a lot of us in the league, so it’s fun to have everybody get together and play a fun game. Nobody’s taking it seriously, it’s all for fun.”
The evening also included a Home Run Derby and a potluck, with league organizers grilling hot dogs and burgers for players and fans. The winner of the derby hit 14 home runs, as families, teammates and even a few dogs gathered around the fields to watch.
“We want the families to come,” Queen Jean said. “It’s not just about the players, it’s about building community.”
The Big Sky Softball League is co-ed, but most teams currently field only two women per game. Organizers hope to eventually increase that number and return to a more balanced five-women, five-men format. Steven Reid, BSCO recreation manager, said events like Ladies of the League support that long-term goal.
“That’s always the toughest part, just getting enough women out here,” Reid said. “We’d love to get to the point where a traditional split is possible.”
The league will conclude its summer season with a co-ed exhibition championship on Wednesday, Aug. 6 at 6 p.m. The final tournament weekend, a double elimination bracket, will take place Aug. 9 and 10 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Big Sky Community Park. The event will include food, beverages and full-day game action.
“It’s a packed weekend,” Reid said. “Rain or shine, we’re out here.”
