KICKING AROUND: Morris reflects on TKL's rise in popularity, upcoming event
Article excerpt
Even though they suffered a recent setback, Tahlequah Kickball League is bigger than ever. TKL was supposed to host the 90s American Tournament a few weeks ago, but rain and damage pushed it back. However, the league is in its second year and growing rapidly. “The growth of the TKL has been a team effort,” league President Amanda Morris said. “As a nonprofit, we keep costs low for our players...
Even though they suffered a recent setback, Tahlequah Kickball League is bigger than ever.
TKL was supposed to host the 90s American Tournament a few weeks ago, but rain and damage pushed it back. However, the league is in its second year and growing rapidly.
“The growth of the TKL has been a team effort,” league President Amanda Morris said. “As a nonprofit, we keep costs low for our players, powered by the generosity of our local sponsors and a dedicated culture of volunteerism. Everyone from the commissioner to our teams, who step up to umpire their own games, keeps this league running. We are excited to expand our focus next year by adding a seasonal community service project, ensuring the league continues to be a positive force for Tahlequah.”
The event was originally schedule for Sunday, June 28, but was moved after severe weather rolled through Tahlequah and caused damage to the field. The league’s biggest event to date was quickly rescheduled to Sunday, July 26.
“This one-day tournament shakes up our regular season by letting players build teams with friends they don’t usually play with, all while embracing a fun ‘90s theme,” Morris said. “It’s the perfect, low-pressure way for newcomers to see why everyone is buzzing about our league. We invite everyone to come out, catch the energy, and experience for themselves why kickball is the place to be.”
The league started last year as a way to get some competition for former athletes and those looking for some fun. Since then, the league has boomed in popularity around the area.
Normally TKL is exactly what it sounds like: a league, playing weekly with local teams. This tournament is an opportunity to reach others in the area.
“This is our biggest event since the league began last year, and the growth has been nothing short of amazing,” Morris said. “It really shows how much women in our area were looking for a positive outlet. Having 15 teams and over 200 women out there playing and rediscovering that feeling of being a kid again is a dream come true.”
Over the course of the event, teams 15 teams will play for first place during the day with a double-elimination format.
Because the event was pushed back, some teams need substitute players to fill out their rosters. Those interested in serving as fill-in players can comment on the TKL Facebook for further information.