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 Earl F. Hunsicker Bicentennial Park which opened for business on August 25, 1976 and was renamed on June 5, 1988. The organization’s 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 sponsored teams for 2006 will include Patriots Petro Kings (men’s fastpitch); Patriot Gators and Patriot Lazers (women’s fastpitch), two Patriot Old Timers teams; 18, 16, 14 and 12 and under plus the Patriot Lehigh Valley Blaze 16-under as youth teams and two T-ball, alternate biddy and biddy teams in children’s hardball for a total of 14 sponsored teams..

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, and memberships and donations. Beginning in 2004-2005, we are actively seeking 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. This year the Harlem Diamonds will be the newest addition to that all-star roster.

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 Lehigh Valley Softball Hall of Fame pays tribute to many of the most important personalities that have graced the softball landscape throughout the Lehigh Valley as well as at Patriots Park. Their stories are part of the rich treasure trove of history that surrounds the Patriots; and please check other parts of this web site for even more information on the history of the individuals and teams that have made Patriots Park famous.