Welcome to the Bristol Softball Association (BSA), Bristol's oldest Softball league! The BSA is a vibrant and inclusive club that welcomes players of all ages and skill levels.
Softball is a popular sport that is similar to baseball, but played with a larger ball and on a smaller field. It is a fun and social sport that promotes teamwork, sportsmanship, and fitness.
The BSA consists of three divisions, each playing on a different evening during the week. Division 1 plays on Wednesdays, Division 2 on Thursdays, and Division 3 on Tuesdays. All games take place at Watson's Field, conveniently located just off the A369 near Abbots Leigh.
The BSA boasts fully marked diamonds with all-weather, astroturf batting boxes. This ensures optimal playing conditions and reduces wear and tear. After each game, players gather at the Abbots Leigh Cricket Club for post-game drinks and camaraderie.
Newcomers are always welcome to come along and watch a game or chat with players and committee members. This will give prospective players a taste of the fun and friendly atmosphere that the BSA offers.
In addition to regular league games, the BSA also organises tournaments throughout the year. These tournaments cater to all levels of play, from beginners to competitive and recreational teams. The First Ball tournament is specifically for league teams, while the DD Cup is perfect for beginners. The Great Western Somerball is an open competition, and the wRECk tournament adds a fun and social element with fancy dress and plenty of partying.
For players who want to improve their skills, the BSA offers various training opportunities. New players and experienced players alike can benefit from player training sessions. Umpire training courses and mentoring are also available for anyone interested in officiating softball games.
If you're looking to join the biggest softball league in the South West, come and join the Bristol Softball Association! Check out our website or contact our committee members for more information.
The history of the BSA dates back to 1989, when the Bristol Softball League was established on the Downs. Over the years, the league has grown and developed, eventually finding a home at Clifton College Sports Centre in 1997. This partnership allowed for better playing facilities, the hosting of the Bristol Tournament, and training courses for umpiring and coaching.
The BSA has been at the forefront of British softball, with players representing the GB squad and umpires officiating games around the world. The league continues to evolve, adding new features such as the Bristol Wreck tournament and installing astroturf batting boxes to protect the pitches.
If you're interested in softball beyond the Bristol Softball Association, there are numerous resources and organisations that you can explore. These include the Baseball Softball UK, British Softball Federation, British Association of Softball Umpires, Bristol Indoor Softball League, and Cardiff Softball League.
