The John Archer Way Softball pitch in London is a popular destination for softball enthusiasts in the city. Located on Wandsworth Common, this field has become the home ground for the Base Invaders, a dedicated and passionate team that has been competing in the London Softball League since 2013.
Established during the summer of 2012, the Base Invaders were formed by a group of aspiring softball players who attended Development Nights in Regents Park. Under the expert guidance of coaches Phil Candice and Nick Barnett, they learned the ins and outs of slowpitch softball while enjoying the camaraderie and social atmosphere at the Crown and Goose pub in Camden. By the end of the 11-week course, the Base Invaders were born and ready to conquer the softball world.
Throughout its history, the team has experienced growth and success, thanks in part to the core group of original members who have remained committed to the ethos of the team. In their first season, the Base Invaders secured promotion to Division 5 and also won the Plate Championship in the Publishers League tournament. The following year, they had their first tournament win and secured the Division 5 title with an impressive 14-2 season record.
In 2015, the team continued its winning streak by claiming back-to-back divisional titles and finishing 3rd in the country in their division at Nationals. The Base Invaders also had a strong showing at the LSL Last Ball Tournament, narrowly missing out on silverware. The team's success attracted new recruits, helping to strengthen the lineup and build on their achievements.
In 2016, the Base Invaders made a significant move, relocating their home ground to the John Archer Way Softball pitch on Wandsworth Common. Despite some near misses in terms of promotion and tournament wins, the team remained competitive and finished 3rd in Division 3. They also impressed at Nationals, finishing 3rd in a higher division.
Transitioning into 2017, the Base Invaders faced some challenges due to player turnover. However, the team quickly regrouped and finished the season on a strong note with several wins. They secured a 4th place finish in the league and a 3rd place finish at the LSL Last Ball Tournament, showcasing their resilience and determination.
In 2018, the Base Invaders were hungry for success and with the addition of new talent, the team had high hopes for promotion. They had an undefeated streak of 8 league games and were in contention for the divisional title. However, a couple of dropped games resulted in a second-place finish, both in the league and at the Last Ball Tournament.
The John Archer Way Softball pitch provides an excellent playing surface for the Base Invaders and visiting teams alike. Its location on Wandsworth Common offers a picturesque setting, creating a welcoming and enjoyable environment for players and spectators. With its rich history and dedicated team, the John Archer Way Softball pitch has become a prominent fixture in the London Softball League and continues to be a hub for softball enthusiasts in the city.