A HISTORY OF THE ALLENTOWN PATRIOTS
The Allentown Patriots Athletic Association (APAA) has risen from humble beginnings to become the Mecca of fastpitch in the Lehigh Valley. No one anticipated such a bright history and future when the first team that was formed (then called POSA or Patriotic Order of Sons of America) made its debut in 1940.
The overall group was officially chartered on April 26, 1948. The park was officially dedicated on August 30, 1953. The community building saw its beginnings on May 12, 1957. The Patriots were also primarily responsible for the construction of the Earl F. Hunsicker Bicentennial Park which opened for business on August 25, 1976 and was renamed on June 5, 1988. The organizations motto: building a better tomorrow through sports today has blossomed into a primarily softball organization that offered 450 athletic contests in the 2005 season.
The Patriots fund raise approximately $180,000 each year to keep programs going and continue the improvement of the park facilities. Our major fundraisers include our refreshment stand and our annual Christmas Barn at the City of Allentown's Lights in the Parkway. We also secure revenues from tournaments, field and equipment rentals, a pro shop, memberships and donations. Beginning in 2004-2005, we actively sought state and foundation grants with our new IRS 501 (c) (3) tax status through the newly created Allentown Patriots Youth Association (APYA).
Down through the years, the Patriots have been home to over 20,000 games featuring the very best in men's and women's fastpitch softball. Three national tournaments have been hosted here in 1976, 1978, and 1984.
Many special events from King and His Court to Queen and Her Court, from the California Cuties to the Kids n Kubs have been held throughout the years.
Especially during the past decade; the Patriots has become home to world-class women's softball featuring Team USA, National Pro Fastpitch, and the Greek Olympic Team.
The Allentown Patriots Athletic Association (APAA) has risen from humble beginnings to become the Mecca of fastpitch in the Lehigh Valley. No one anticipated such a bright history and future when the first team that was formed (then called POSA or Patriotic Order of Sons of America) made its debut in 1940.
The overall group was officially chartered on April 26, 1948. The park was officially dedicated on August 30, 1953. The community building saw its beginnings on May 12, 1957. The Patriots were also primarily responsible for the construction of the Earl F. Hunsicker Bicentennial Park which opened for business on August 25, 1976 and was renamed on June 5, 1988. The organizations motto: building a better tomorrow through sports today has blossomed into a primarily softball organization that offered 450 athletic contests in the 2005 season.
The Patriots fund raise approximately $180,000 each year to keep programs going and continue the improvement of the park facilities. Our major fundraisers include our refreshment stand and our annual Christmas Barn at the City of Allentown's Lights in the Parkway. We also secure revenues from tournaments, field and equipment rentals, a pro shop, memberships and donations. Beginning in 2004-2005, we actively sought state and foundation grants with our new IRS 501 (c) (3) tax status through the newly created Allentown Patriots Youth Association (APYA).
Down through the years, the Patriots have been home to over 20,000 games featuring the very best in men's and women's fastpitch softball. Three national tournaments have been hosted here in 1976, 1978, and 1984.
Many special events from King and His Court to Queen and Her Court, from the California Cuties to the Kids n Kubs have been held throughout the years.
Especially during the past decade; the Patriots has become home to world-class women's softball featuring Team USA, National Pro Fastpitch, and the Greek Olympic Team.