We were forwarded this brief article by Dallas ASA JO Commissioner Nesa Grider and like how it touches on the bare essentials of why softball is such a great sport.

Understand that these excerpts are directed at those who are younger or perhaps aren’t as experienced in softball as the majority of our audience, but, still, re-examining the basic core benefits of the sport and the value it brings, especially to new players, is always worth it!

 

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Why do girls play softball?

The easy answer is for exercise, which is correct, but there is so much more that the game of softball provides to young women.

With many opportunities at the recreational level starting as early as five years old, there are opportunities for our youth to forge a course of not only a fit body, but also of self-confidence and empowerment.

Players at any age can be overcome with anxiety before practice or games, often getting so worked up they get physically ill.  Being part of team that is working towards a common goal can help alleviate that anxiety and promote self-assurance and worth to athletes.

We understand the importance of young girls’ involvement in the world of sports and how it offers its athletes a variety of opportunities to play!

“Softball has changed my life because it has given me opportunities that I might not have normally received,” said Cheridan Hawkins, a member of the USA Softball Women’s National Team.

“It has helped me attain a college education, it is allowing me to represent my country and it is giving me a chance to travel the world.  If softball can open this many doors for me I am positive it can do the same thing for many other aspiring softball players. So go out and give softball a try because it could change your life!”

Here are five reasons that softball is such a positive experience for those who play it:

1. Softball players tend to have a higher level of confidence, self-esteem and empowerment
2. Softball players tend to have a more positive body image and psychological well-being
3. Softball players learn teamwork, goal-setting, the pursuit of excellence in performance and other achievement-oriented behaviors
4. Softball players are more likely to achieve better grades in school and more likely to graduate post high school
5. Softball players enjoy better physical health and are more likely to maintain a healthy weight and have stronger bones

Yes, the power of the bat, ball and glove is far reaching.

It is no coincidence that 80% of top executive females identified themselves as “tomboys,” happy to take the dirt at a moment’s notice!

Nesa Grider
Dallas ASA JO
nesag@dallasasa.com