WILLOW CREEK — The Willow Creek Recreation Commission has opened registration for the town’s summer youth baseball and softball programs, with games set to begin in late June.

The programs, which serve children ages 6-14, typically draw between 30 and 40 participants. Registration forms are available at the town clerk’s office, at the general store, and online through the town’s website. The fee is $25 per child, with scholarships available for families in need.

A mitt, bat, and scuffed ball on the dugout bench — the timeless tools of small-town baseball, waiting for the first pitch of summer.
A mitt, bat, and scuffed ball on the dugout bench — the timeless tools of small-town baseball, waiting for the first pitch of summer.

“This is one of the few things we do that brings out the whole town,” said Julia Chen, who serves on the recreation commission. “We’ve got parents who played in this league when they were kids, and now their kids are playing. It’s a tradition.”

The season runs eight weeks, with games played on the field behind the K-8 school. The league relies on volunteer coaches — a role that Recreation Commission Chair Deb Pearson said is always in demand.

“We need at least four coaches to run the programs safely,” Pearson said. “We’ve got two so far. If you’ve ever held a baseball glove, consider volunteering — we’ll take you.”

Registration closes June 10. The season opens June 24.