The Willetton Men’s Softball Association was formed in 1983 after an initial meeting by 5 men over a long lunch (approx 12 hours) at the Blue Note Tavern where the association idea was born after having played in the Dale District’s competition where the game was played very seriously. Those 5 men were Dennis Sullivan, Rosco Limpus, Graham Hambley, Ted Nastasi and Neil Holloway and they wanted the competition to be serious but played in friendly family atmosphere with families encouraged to come along. Also born at this meeting was the now famous Arrks Wheel and The Hammer Award which have provided both funds and many laughs for all associated with the club.
Rosco Limpussy, Gracie Handleme and Denise Sluttervan
Three of these men were later immortalized is a skit by the Sliders where four teams gathered at the Willy Bull Steakhouse (No longer exists) opposite the playing ground. The skit was titled “Perfect Snatch” and obviously modeled on the show “Perfect Match”. The names were changed to fit the theme of the evening and they were Denise Sluttervan, Rosco Limpussy and Gracie Handleme.
The initial 9 teams were formed by gathering together fathers of children playing T-Ball and wanting to learn more about the rules and various playing conditions and they were Road Runner Arrks, Road Runner Mercs, Southside Sliders, Yobbos, Drillers, Steelers, Hammers, Wombats and Flyers.
There was a gathering of all members The Riverton Hotel in June 1989 with the theme being a “P” night and a great time was had by all with peverts, priests, paperback books and many more. Below is a photo of some of the Arrks on the night.
Rosco, Bob, Robbie and Henry at the famous “P” night at the Riverton Hotel
The Willetton Men’s Softball Association has just celebrated 25 years of continuous play and all those involved at committee level and especially the life members for their contribution to making Saturday afternoons at the Willetton Reserve something special in the lives of all members and will not be forgotten by any of them (except possibly Ray Hogan).