USA Softball

USA Softball, formerly known as the Amateur Softball Association (ASA), is a nonprofit organization and the National Governing Body of softball in the United States. It was founded in 1933 by Leo Fisher and Michael J. Pauley.

History

The organization was established with a significant tournament during the 1933 World's Fair in Chicago, which marked a pivotal moment in creating structured rules and governance for softball. In 1934, the Amateur Softball Association gained recognition at the National Recreation Congress, marking its beginning as a national governing body. Over time, the organization has grown significantly, relocating its headquarters to Oklahoma City in 1966.

In 2016, a rebranding effort led to the adoption of the USA Softball name, effective in 2017, to better align with its mission as a national governing body and to support the growth of the sport.

Mission and Objectives

USA Softball's mission is to provide opportunities for participation through competition, education, and leadership, with a focus on promoting the growth and development of softball. The organization's objectives include promoting amateur softball, establishing uniform rules and regulations, and fostering sportsmanship. It also aims to provide training and education in softball skills and rules, promote annual championships, and maintain alliances with other non-profit organizations to develop the sport nationwide.

Activities and Programs

USA Softball oversees a vast network of softball teams across the United States, sanctioning competitions in every state through its network of state/metro associations. The organization supports both youth and adult programs, offering fast pitch, slow pitch, and modified pitch competitions. It also provides extensive opportunities for umpire training and participation in various levels of competition, from local to international events.

Governance and Structure

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, USA Softball is structured to respond to the evolving landscape of softball demographics. It emphasizes values such as education, diversity, equity, inclusion, integrity, and teamwork in its operations.

Role in International Competitions

USA Softball is responsible for training and equipping the U.S. national softball teams, which participate in international events like the Olympics and Pan American Games. It is a member of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), contributing to the global development of softball.

Cultural Impact

The organization plays a significant role in promoting softball as one of the most popular team sports in the United States. It supports various community programs, including partnerships with Special Olympics, and offers educational resources and training for coaches and umpires.

National Softball Hall of Fame

USA Softball also maintains the National Softball Hall of Fame, dedicated in 1973, which honors outstanding players, managers, umpires, and contributors to the sport. The Hall of Fame is part of the organization's headquarters and serves as a landmark for softball enthusiasts.

Notable Venues

The USA Softball Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City serves as a venue for major softball events, including the NCAA Women's College World Series and the World Cup of Softball. This stadium is pivotal in hosting national championships and international competitions, solidifying USA Softball's position as a leader in the sport.