Freedom Spirit

They may run a little slower. And sometimes they limp off the field. But don't think for a moment that the women on the Freedom Spirt slow-pitch team are powder puffs. Freedon Spirit is for women 65 and older. Founded in 1999 as a spin-off from the 55 and older team "Florida Spirit" which began in 1994.

The oldest Freedom Spirit member is 75. The players are from all over central florida including a few snowbirds. The team will represent Florida this July at the Senior Olympics. Where they are one of only six teams of their age in the country.

Many of the members are accomplished players of other sports including: sprints, shot put, javelin, long jump, volleyball, basketball and others. Some recall the days when they were told "nice girls don't play baseball". Luckily that didn't stop these women from having some fun. The team plays the Boomerangs, a local senior men's team, twice a month as they prepare for the Senior Games.

*Reprinted by permission of St Petersburg Times. ©2001 All right reserved.