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Home Sports Baseball & softball
Baseball might be America’s favourite pastime, but it has a long and storied history in Britain. US baseball historian David Block discovered that the first recorded game of ‘Bass-Ball’ actually took place in 1749 in Surrey, and featured the Prince of Wales as a player.
The British royals seemingly took a shine to the sport. In 1918, a game between the US Navy and Army at Chelsea FC’s Stamford Bridge stadium attracted 38,000 fans, including King George V.
Both baseball and softball are experiencing significant growth in the UK, with baseball seeing around 8,000 active players and softball engaging over 10,000 participants. The rise in grassroots programmes, youth leagues, and recreational play is helping to develop a new generation of athletes.
Great Britain made their first-ever appearance at the World Baseball Classic in 2023, and earned a historic first win when they beat Colombia at Chase Field in Phoenix, Arizona.
Baseball and softball will make their return to the Olympic Games in LA in 2028. For British players, it’s a golden opportunity with a renewed motivation across the UK’s grassroots scene to build competitive national teams. From local clubs to national development programmes, the countdown to Los Angeles has already begun.
David Morris, head coach at Chichester Falcons Baseball and Softball Club, says, “You get what you pay for with baseball and softball equipment, so always get the best you can afford. I always go to thesoftballshop for our club equipment”.
Bring it back
"Our goal was to put together the most competitive team we could find, because the spoils go right back here to the grassroots."
Drew Spencer GB Baseball Coach at the 2023 World Baseball Classic
Future is bright
"We don't have big funding but the trajectory of the programme and players that we're bringing in is positive"
Brad Marcelino Current GB Baseball Coach
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Fancy stepping up to the plate? Baseball is growing fast in the UK, with opportunities to play at all levels from youth and beginners to advanced adult leagues. Click here to find out more
Looking for a fun, social sport that’s open to all? Whether it’s casual co-ed slowpitch or competitive fastpitch, softball welcomes players of all abilities across the UK. Click here to find out more
Help shape the future of British baseball and softball by becoming a coach. Training and resources are available for all experience levels, click here to learn more
Volunteers are vital to growing both sports across the UK. From scoring, officiating, and safeguarding to events, media, and club support, there’s a role for everyone. Find out how to get involved here
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