New tandem batting cages are up and have youth softball players in full swing for the summer and beyond at Dickinson Park’s Liberty Fields. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place to celebrate the addition to Newtown Hawks Softball on July 12.

The cages, a joint effort between Newtown Parks and Recreation and the Hawks program, have been in use since the softball program’s annual Grateful Dad Tournament on Father’s Day weekend.

“We’re trying to enhance our facilities for the girls. This was a need we saw for them to warm up before games and when it rains you can use it because of the turf,” said Justin Wasley, treasurer of the Hawks Softball program, whose daughter, Cece, is a player in the program.

“It’s good to be able to give back to the organization and the community,” added Karl Murphy, president of the Newtown Hawks, whose daughter Emily is a Hawks Softball player.

The cages allow for hitters and pitchers alike to warm up before or during games, as well as during practice sessions.

“The girls and their coaches are really, really excited with having this facility to pitch in the cage and hit in the cage,” said Heather Franse, vice president of the program and 12U travel coach, whose daughter Edie competes.

“You can use it during all types of weather,” Wasley said.

The program offers teams for 6U through 14U, reintroducing the oldest team offering with the return of U14 Coach Lindsey Carley.

Hawks officials thanked Newtown Parks and Recreation Assistant Director Carl Samuelson for his efforts in allowing this project to come to fruition.

Sports Editor Andy Hutchison can be reached at andyh@thebee.com.