Softball is growing and with a younger demographic than other sports, which bodes well for the future.
About 80 % of the viewers are under age 34.
As for the game itself, it’ s similar to baseball, with bats, balls and bases, but there are some noticeable differences. For example, when a speedy hitter rolls a slow grounder to the infield, the defenders had better gobble it up and make a clean throw, or they won’ t beat the batter to first base.
Against some of the overpowering pitchers, teams may have to manufacture runs the hard way, with bunts, chops and steals. But when one of the power hitters drives one out of the park, they can climb over the 200 foot fence in a hurry.
One thing I like about being in the crowd at a softball game is how close you are to the action. The old saying,“ you can’ t tell the players without a scorecard,” doesn’ t ring true when you can recognize the young women, by their appearance and style of play.
The explosion of interest in softball is coming at a perfect time, with the sport returning to the Olympics in 2028. Although the bulk of the Olympic events will be in and around Los Angeles, the softball teams will battle at the home of the WCWS,
Devon Stadium in Oklahoma City.
With the softball world’ s teams gathering just a few hours away, I might just drive up I-35 to watch a little. Actually it’ s not as simple as that. You have to register for a drawing to get in the running for tickets.
Anyone who thinks the USA is a shooin for gold, should take a second look. The World Baseball Softball Confederation shows the No. 1 as Japan, closely followed by the U. S. Puerto Rico, with Canada and Chinese Taipei rounding out the top five. As you might imagine, Mexico and Cuba also show up in the Top 20. It’ ll be fun to see how they fare up in the Sooner State.
TVCC slugger Allie Wainwright, a first team All-Region choice, unloads a crushing hit against Angelina College.
Greater Athens Magazine | July 2026 | 23