What started in 2021 as a simple way to bring Mercer County communities together has grown into a thriving Friday night tradition — the Visit Merco Adult Softball League.
The league, organized by Visit Merco and led by Commissioner Corey Ford, has expanded from five teams in its inaugural season to nine in 2025, involving more than 150 players each week — not to mention the enthusiastic fans who come out to cheer them on.
“This was created to give people something fun to do on Friday nights and bring communities together,” said Visit Merco Executive Director Cassie Henshaw. “It’s also about small-town economic development — we want people grabbing a snack at the gas station, eating dinner locally, and staying to watch the games.”
Corey Ford, who has coached baseball locally for over a decade, took the reins of the league three years ago. “I didn’t have much softball experience at the start,” he said, “but I knew the people involved, and it’s been a lot of fun watching this grow.”
The league has been so successful that, for the first time, a team had to be turned away this season due to capacity. Cassie and Corey are already brainstorming ways to scale the league for next year so no one gets left out. Ideas include hosting a fall league or splitting venues — though that comes with challenges like needing more umpires and potentially dividing fans.
In addition to weekly games, the league hosts fun extras like a home run derby. This Friday, the action heads to Rodeo Park in New Windsor, where the local fire department will serve pork chops and The Depot will offer adult beverages.
“It’s really cool how something as simple as softball has brought people together,” said Henshaw. “We’re committed to keeping this going and making room for even more players and communities next year.”
For more information about the Visit Merco Adult Softball League, reach out to Visit Merco or contact Commissioner Corey Ford directly.