GIRLS GET PITCH FOR BASEBALL

BASEBALL Townsville is ready tear down stereotypes in sport.

For too long president Dan White believes baseball and softball have been pigeonholed into single gender sports.

But in 2020, White is ready to move the dial as Baseball Townsville aims to introduce its first all-female team. to

The side is expected to be named the Diamonds and will compete in the association’s second tier senior competition.

White believes he has 12 women already keen to take to the diamond at Jabiru Park, but he is on the hunt for more.

“The interest has been there in terms of people saying they want a women’s team,” White said.

“Last year was a bit of treading water on the season with a late start due to the floods. But late last year Baseball Australia announced they are trying to introduce a professional women’s league alongside the ABL.

“That proves the pathway is beginning to grow. It is no longer seen as baseball is for men and softball is for girls.”

“Our catch for the league is that it is not a women’s league, they will be playing against men and alongside men. It is a good chance to test their skills and learn.”

The league will host a come and try day tomorrow at their Jabiru Park diamond in an effort to attract more women. Prospective players will have a chance to take their first swing with the bat and learn the basics.

Townsville reigning golden glove Shiori Hoshino, who is the only female in the association’s top division, will be at the field to lend a hand.