Hank Heitner - (1938 - 2023) (League Founder and Dodger)

Hank Heitner [Softball enthusiast / Kind and Generous Man] - had a vision some 30-plus years ago to provide an environment for himself and his friends to continue playing the sport they love under conditions more favorable and accommodating to older men. He loved playing softball and continued playing in Rockland County for the Dodgers and in Florida where he retired some years ago.

Hank's vision for creating Rockland Senior Softball (seen on the right posing during the September 2014 Senior Softball All-Star Game at Provident Bank Park) was to provide a friendly and fun league for players over 35, allowing them to continue playing the game under controlled rules so they could remain active and enjoy softball as they advance into the prime of life.

Hank never looked to profit from this league, working diligently to secure fields and a playing environment that would be affordable to all. He was stalwart in his pursuit of this goal and to his credit, he achieved that and more. 

His vision lives on today as the league has grown and evolved over time into one of the favorite leagues in the surrounding Rockland County area.

In 2016, Hank handed the reigns of the league over to Jeff Wamsley. Jeff was like a son to Hank and his trust and admiration for Jeff made him the right choice to continue Hank's league.  Hank continued to play for his beloved Dodgers in the years that followed. He loved this game.

Hank passed away on Saturday, January 21, 2023, at the grand age of 84. A gentleman that stood out among other gentlemen. He strived to provide a fair, yet competitive environment to play and enjoy the game of softball.

Hank's mark on providing a means for older players to continue to play softball in Rockland County has grown and evolved over those 30 years.  Sons of the early players are now playing alongside their dads and many others that were just toddlers when the league started are now joining and continuing the traditions of fun and friendly competition that Hank's work has provided over the years.

As of January 23, 2023, the League has been renamed "The Hank Heitner Rockland Senior Softball League" from now and for all time.

All players, past, present and future honor Hank Heitner with gratitude and thanks for who is was as a person and for who is was in creating this league for so many. I'm not sure Hank fully appreciated all the lives he touched in the most positive way over the years.

You will be missed Hank.