Payson’s Ball Fields Praised by Steve “Biz” Buys as His Playing Days Draw To a Close

L-R: (front row) Wes Buys, Biz Buys, Austin Trumell, Eric Loader, Tyler Loader; (back row) Matt Gourley, Chris Bair, Jeff Barrus, Clay Atchison, and Phil Averett

Payson’s ball fields are among the best around, and Steve “Biz” Buys has been around long enough to understand how far the City has come since Payson Recreation’s Softball Leagues began.  “Back when we first started, the very first years of Payson Softball, the games were played at the Junior High School, and there were just grass fields, no home run fences, and just holes in the grass for bases.  The good thing about it was there were no home run fences, because that way, if they hit it over my head, I could just run it down—unless, which happened many times, the morning glory wrapped around my legs and tackled me.”

“Biz” laments that his playing days are now over since a serious shoulder injury prevents participation, but he and all those who play softball in Payson, are beneficiaries of some very fine venues for their sport.
In Steve’s case, a long succession of great softball teams have helped him enjoy his favorite pastime, beginning with Buys Insurance in 1980, continuing with Leo’s Fried Chicken, Olson’s Garden Shoppe (a team that once won 87 consecutive games), Payson Sheet Metal, Pizza House, Rocky Mountain ATV, On Track, O & Y, and the team that takes that tradition forward today, The Dirty Birds.

See photos of Biz and teammates through the years in this week's edition of The Payson Chronicle.  Order your subscription today at paysonads.com.