Softball Fundamentals

SOFTBALL FUNDAMENTALS

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Caption: : Softball and leather glove.

HISTORY

Softball was created by George Hancock in Chicago, 1887. The game originated as an indoor variation of baseball and was later converted to an outdoor game. Recognized as an Olympic sport in 1996. Softball was removed from the Olympic program in the 2012 and 2014 games. Efforts are underway to get softball back in the Olympics for 2016.

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Caption: : George W. Hancock, Father of Softball.

OBJECT OF THE GAME

TO SCORE MORE RUNS THAN THE OPPOSING TEAM. THE TEAM WITH THE MOST RUNS AT THE END OF THE GAME WINS.

What Is A 'Run'?Definition:The point scored when a batter or base runner advances to home plate.http://www.isfsoftball.org/english/development/softball_terms.asp#r

EQUIPMENT

Equipment differs for the offensive and defensive positions. Offensive: Batters have a wooden or aluminum bat, batting gloves for grip, and batting helmets for protection. Defensive: Fielders use a leather glove. The catcher uses specialized protective equipment, consisting of a face mask, chest protector, and shin/leg guards. All Players: Wear shoes with cleats. The uniform is comprised of a jersey, pants, shorts, and a baseball cap, visor, or headband.

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Caption: : Full protective attire for a softball catcher.