Sign-ups will start soon for recreational soccer and Escalon youngsters are also getting ready to play ball.

That, according to city Recreation Services Coordinator Bridget Gaines.

“We are excited to start sports back up. We did a short baseball/softball registration late February, early March and plan to begin games the beginning of May through early June,” Gaines explained. “There are 310 kids signed up for baseball/softball this year, which is down from last year’s 433 but still a good amount. There was a cap put on the number of teams and players this year to help adhere to the state and local guidelines.”

Also in adherence with guidelines, the city has decided to forego the traditional ‘Opening Day’ festivities of the past.

“We will not be holding an opening day ceremony this year, due to the amount of people it tends to draw,” Gaines added. “Some adjusting to scheduling and moving T-ball to another city park will help keep the total number of people down during games to help adhere to the current guidelines.”

Soccer registration will open up in early April with the season running mid-August to October. This sport will also have some scheduling adjustments and possibly using other city parks along with Hogan-Ennis Field to lessen the crowds. Gaines said she anticipates that flag football registration will open up in July.

“We are currently planning on opening the pool this year for at least swim lessons, public swim is not yet determined,” she said.