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Baseball and softball are exciting and accessible sports that offer opportunities for males and females of all ages to play across the country. They are fun team sports that encourage co-operation, develop hand eye coordination and improve fitness.
Popularity
Baseball and softball are popular sports played by over 10,000 people country wide.
Location
Baseball and softball are played up and down the country, between April and September, games are played outside. Between October to March many indoor games and training sessions take place.
Age
Both sports offer opportunities to people of all ages. Youth clubs and leagues around the country provide seven to sixteen years olds with places to play. For adults there are many leagues, playing at different levels.
Ability
People of all abilities and experience can enjoy playing both baseball and softball.
Description
Baseball and softball are bat and ball games involving skill and strategy. Slowpitch softball is the most common, played by mixed and single sex teams. The clue is in the name - the ball is pitched slowly, underarm. Fastpitch softball, both womens and mens, is played in the UK. It is a competitive form of the game, where the ball is pitched underarm at high speed. Baseball is played predominantly by men and involves over arm pitching, as many people are more familiar with.
Dedication
Baseball and softball have something to offer to everyone. For those only looking to play from time to time, or in a relaxed way slowpitch may be the answer, or if looking for more competition fastpitch or baseball may be the thing for you.
Potential
Baseball provides the 'Final 4' a weekend where the top four teams of each league compete to crown a champion. Slowpitch runs competitions most weekends throughout summer. Fastpitch holds competitions in the UK. Teams also travel abroad to play.
Closely
Related Activities
Both games have roots that trace back to rounders. Other closely related games include cricket, stool ball and there are many other cousins such as Welsh Baseball (more like cricket) and Finnish Baseball.
Cost
Glove - £30 upwards. Bat - most teams provide. Uniform - team dependant. Shoes £30 upwards. Membership of club £50 per annum. Umpire fees usually £1 per game. Tournaments £20 each team to enter.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
|
Legs
|
Sight
|
Hearing
|
Speech |
Learning |
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