For the Love of the Game

My love for baseball began many years ago when my Dad took me to Shibe Park in North Philadelphia to watch the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Athletics. My favorite player was Richie Ashburn.

While in grade school and junior high school, I played baseball in a school-yard in West Philly where I lived. When my children were old enough, they played little league baseball (they also loved the game too), and I coached two of our children from T-ball through junior high school.

In 1987, I met Richie Ashburn in person at the ‘Phillies Dream Week’ in Florida. Richie and I had many conversations about his career, family and our mutual love of the game. In my cottage here at Tel Hai, I have a picture of Richie and me at ‘Dream Week.’ I also have a picture of the 1950 ‘Whiz Kids.’ After ‘Dream Week,’ I played organized baseball in Delaware County with the Delco Phillies.

With the help of Judy Schweitzer, Community Life Coordinator, I organized and started a Resident Softball Team here at Tel Hai. We call ourselves the “Rockets” and we practice every Friday morning from April to September at Suplee Field in Honey Brook. And take our practice very seriously…. (sometimes!)

As of 2017 season, we had 11 active players, ranging in age from 72 to over 80. They call me “Coach.” I am always looking for players for the coming season. Every summer we challenge Tel Hai team members to a softball game. The ‘Rockets’ look forward to this game. Tel Hai is gracious enough to supply hot dogs, drinks, and peanuts for the game. Our 40 or more fans from Tel Hai come to cheer both sides!

I speak for my team to extend a ‘thanks’ for such a marvelous time.

Rich Toscano

Tel Hai Resident

TASTE OF TEL HAI LUNCHEON- REGISTER: Thurs., Nov. 14

Join Residential Living Counselor Tracy Weaver as she shares about Tel Hai at an in-person ‘Taste of Tel Hai’ event. Learn more about the Tel Hai lifestyle and decide if it could be perfect for you! Join us for a delicious lunch where you’ll learn about residential living options and hear from the residents who live…

Read More

MOVING MADE EASY- REGISTER: Fri., Nov. 15

Learn how to ready your finances, prepare your home to sell, and sort through all your ‘stuff’ to jumpstart your retirement future! Join us on Friday, November 15, 2024 for our Moving Made Easy event! If you’re thinking, preparing or in the process of moving… this event is for you! Gain valuable information from a…

Read More

JINGLE & MINGLE OPEN HOUSE: Tues., Dec. 3 & 10

We’re all decked out for this joyous time of the year, and our residents are eager to share why they love the “Holidays at The Hill of Life” in 2024!  Join us on Tuesday, December 3 or on Tuesday, December 10! Ring in the holiday season and join us for chef-crafted seasonal sweet & savory…

Read More

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *