faqs

Is softball the same as rounders?
If softball players had a pound for every time this question has been asked…! Actually, the basics of softball are similar to rounders, played by many as kids at school e.g. hit a ball with a bat and run. But softball is a much more structured game involving regulation bats, padded gloves, bases, a language of its own, and an entire rule book.

Is softball an easy game to learn to play?
Yes, absolutely. If you join a team then there will be players who will be able to teach you the basics, which can take just a few minutes. But one of the best ways to learn is just to start playing and pick it up as you go along. Even though there can be many rules (just like any team sport) the vast majority apply for unusual situations and anyway, its normally the umpires job to sort them out!

Can anyone play softball?
Absolutely. Kids right through to the most senior adults. People from all kinds of backgrounds play, both male and female. Many teams in London play with a mix of five men and women on the same team…in fact, its required in some leagues. It helps if you can run a bit, catch and throw a ball, and of course, hit! But you don’t have to be a top athlete – there are softball teams all around London representing every standard from recreational through to competitive.

Is softball a mixed team sport?
Softball is one of the rare team sports that can feature both sexes playing together. Many of the softball leagues in London feature mixed teams, with players of mixed ability. However, there are also men’s teams and women’s teams. The majority of softball played in London is ‘slowpitch’ (i.e. slow pitching!). But there are also ‘fastpitch’ teams, but this is normally for more experienced players.

So where can you play?
Most teams play in the major parks of London e.g. Regents Park, Wandsworth Common, Victoria Park, Finsbury Park etc. There are also playing/sports fields which are designated as softball pitches in the summer e.g. Barn Elms. Almost wherever you live, there will be a softball pitch close by.

Is softball a summer sport?
In general, yes. Softball is played outdoor, typically from April through to September. However, there is also ‘Indoor’ softball which is played at selected venues during the other months. Further details on Indoor softball can be sourced from the LSF.

How can I find out about teams to try and join?
Simple – via this website! There are many structured softball leagues in London each featuring many teams e.g. Advertising League, Publishers League, GLSML etc. If you happen to work in one of the leagues featured then contact the appropriate league. If not, then the GLSML (Greater London Softball Mixed League) may be the best starting point. If the enquiry is more general, try contacting the LSF (London Softball Federation) directly.

What do you need to do to set up a softball team?
Probably the best and first thing to do is to contact the LSF who will be able to give you advice on what to do. This would include what you need to purchase e.g. bats, gloves, bases etc. Should you wish to play in a league then you would need to be registered and affiliated (this does involve a small annual fee). You would also need to apply to a local council for a pitch to play on (this also involves a fee!). But most importantly, you need at least 10 players and a sense of fun!

Are there softball tournaments?
In addition to the softball leagues (games played mostly during weekday evenings) various softball bodies also run tournaments that are held at various venues in and around London. These are held at the weekend, frequently running over both days. Some tournaments run by Leagues are for specified teams only, but many are open to any team wishing to participate. Further details and a calendar of the softball tournaments played in London, and around the UK, can be sourced by contacting the LSF.

Is softball expensive?
Softball is generally regarded as one of the less expensive participative team sports around. Most established teams already have their own kit so you wouldn’t need to buy an expensive bat. However, players are normally requested to buy their own glove (prices range from @£30-£90) and pay an annual subscription if they are going to join a team on a regular basis. Some teams have their own strip which may involve a purchase too. Actual playing costs e.g. tournaments, leagues etc. when split between all the players are nominal.