50 Years of Tradition

W.P. Kinsella once wrote a story about standing on a ball field and used the magical words “If you build it, they will come.” 

I look across the ball diamonds in Oxford that stand not far from the eminence of the Clear Creek Amana high school softball field - a home to many state championship titles. When I look across Oxford's youth ball diamonds, I not only see fifty years of America's Pastime, but I see talent; I see skill; I see potential; and I see the love of the game being played by these kids. Even in the off season, you can practically smell that fresh cut grass, see the powdery, white chalk on the infield, and hear the train engineer blowing the whistle as the train passes by.

In 1973 - Mildred Tomash donated land for these ball diamonds to the Oxford Lions Club with the intention to create not only a park for playground equipment but the ball diamonds we know and love. Through generous donations & the dedication of countless parent volunteers over the years - we have been able to keep our youth active and to teach them finer skills of playing ball - baseball, softball, or T-ball (and the occasional kickball). It’s a way to embrace the passion of the game and pass the love of the sport to future generations. 

The upcoming 2023 season marks the 50th year of Oxford Little League. Many names have left their legacy imprinted on our league through the marks their cleats left on the infield, the dings left on their bats, & the names on the backs of their team shirts. These players have grown and now they share their love of the game with their kids - on these very same fields. 

I understand our players don't walk out of a cornfield into right field - but they are grown right here, in our hometown of Oxford. Come help us celebrate 50 years of the Greatest Little League in Eastern Iowa this summer!