Dave Farley Brings Renewed Energy And Excitement To Havenwood Girls Softball Program

By Hayley Gable

While Pasadena has long been known as a powerhouse of talented young softball players, what all too often becomes overlooked are the number of dedicated coaches and parents who volunteer countless evenings and weekends throughout the year to the community’s array of softball programs.

One such program, the Havenwood Girls’ Softball Association, has taken a drastic turn for the better since Green Haven resident Dave Farley took over the reins three years ago. Farley first became involved as a coach six years ago for his daughter’s team, and since that time his contribution has amplified through his dedication to maintaining the fields, revamping the equipment, organizing educational clinics, raising funds, managing the league’s website, administering a scholarship program, and coaching and mentoring the young athletes.

“It’s a lot of work, but I do truly enjoy it,” said Farley, who this season is coaching his 13-year-old daughter’s 14U team, the Havenwood Chaos.

“The best part for me is watching the girls improve at the game and just become better athletes overall. As a coach, that’s a great feeling,” admits Farley.

Two years ago when the Riviera Beach Softball Association folded due to lack of overall participation, approximately 80 girls were left without a neighborhood team to play for. Farley, a beacon of helpful community spirit, directed them over to Havenwood and assisted them each in finding a team. Additionally, Farley serves as the Vice President of the North County Girls Softball Organization, where each year he organizes the highly-praised Girls’ 8U Classic Tournament.

“Dave is the heart and soul of this organization. When he was appointed as our president, his positive impact was immediately felt throughout both the Havenwood Organization and the North County Girls Softball league. It is because of his leadership that our 2011 program participation has doubled from last year,” said Dennis Cornell, a Havenwood Softball coach and board member.

For Farley, who also holds down a full-time career as a network engineer, planning and implementing for softball season is a year-round process. “There’s less than a month of downtime for us,” he confessed.

In December, Farley begins advertising for Havenwood’s spring clinics and team registration. In January, educational clinics begin. For the month of February, player registration is held. Practice begins in March, and the regular season runs from April through June. In July, registration begins for the “Fall Ball” season, and practice begins in August. The fall league begins in September and continues through early November.

“I’m involved with it all,” he said proudly.

“Dave’s contribution is remarkable. Our organization regularly takes a back seat to others in the area, but he stays constantly involved with every detail to ensure our girls have a fun, safe and educational experience,” said Board Member Jesse Burroughs. “He takes time off work to meet with county, public works and political figures to improve our fields and make sure our needs don’t get lost in the paperwork. I have a lot of respect for him,” added Burroughs.

Farley, who credits his wife Charlene for providing assistance and support, is looking forward to what the future holds for the Havenwood Softball Association.

“We just started a great scholarship program for our older players at Northeast and Chesapeake, and we have a great support system behind us,” he said. “I’m glad to be a part of it.”

For more information on the Havenwood Girls Softball Association, visit www.havenwoodgirlssoftball.org.