Men’s league basketball ‘picks up’ at Sippican School

MARION — Long after students had gone home for the day, a group of adults were hard at work running, jumping, and shooting baskets at Sippican School on Wednesday night, Sept. 18.

For 48 years, the Men’s League “Pick Up” Basketball has given adults the chance to exercise and socialize through their common interest in the sport. “The whole idea is to break a sweat, have fun, and don’t get hurt,” said player Caleb Morgan.

On Wednesday, the group did just that, dividing into two teams to run full court pick up games to 22 points.

For 58-year-old  Carl Horstmann, the league is a way to bring people from different walks of life together on one court. “It’s great because we come from all different professions and ages, and it’s a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together on the court,” he said.

Matthew Baltz said that he’s been playing for 20 years, and has been helping to run the league for over a decade. Players meet up every Wednesday night at 7:30, and play for about two hours.

During the summer, games are held outside at Silvershell Beach. Horstmann said that with college students back at school, the average age at the indoor games is somewhere in the 30s, making for a different style of play, with a bit of a slower pace.

Baltz added that the league is always looking for new members, and is open for players 18 years and older.

Mass Tank, a company that produces steel storage tanks, helps sponsor the league by providing reversible blue and white jerseys to players.

Those interested in playing can call Marion Director of Recreation at 774-217-8355, or drop by at one of the league’s pick up basketball sessions.