Though there was resistance to the idea and need for an all girl's league, just a few weeks before the fall of 1997, the Parks and Recreation commission approved a proposal to support a trial one season league. Convinced by that season's enthusiastic response from the players, Seth and Pat Doran and other interested parents began the GBGSL in earnest. In each season in the early years the league grew dramatically in size. Overwhelmed by its growing success, the league never would have survived those early years without the dedication, time, and organizational energy that Pat Doran provided on the board. And its continued success depended, and still depends, on the many members of the Board who have given so much time and effort over the years.
For the first few seasons, weekly game sites alternated between Callahan Park and Leddy Park, then GBGSL finally settled on Callahan as "home". In one of the earliest season ending league picnics, a mass "Macarena" dance spontaneously erupted in what would become a seasonal ending ritual. Later, the team cheers/ performances were added to the picnic in response to several team requests.
And the rest is history. With over 400 registered players last season, and more than thirty teams, it is obvious that many girls thrive in an all girls league. And they certainly maintain their interest!