What is slowpitch softball?
Softball is very similar to baseball, played with a larger ball on a smaller diamond. The “soft” part comes from the underarm pitches. Leeds Softball League is a co-ed, slowpitch league.
Co-ed slowpitch is recreational, sociable and easy to learn. Teams are five men and five women, and we have inclusivity rules to cater for non-binary and other genders. Games run all year, outdoors in summer and indoors in winter, and are followed by a debrief in the clubhouse.
The Leeds Softball Association prides itself on being a fully inclusive league.
Questions new players ask
Can I join if I’m completely new to softball?
Absolutely. Leeds Softball welcomes newcomers and runs open weekly training sessions through the spring and summer, with indoor sessions in the winter.
I’m not very fit or sporty. Can I still play?
A reasonable level of fitness helps. The game involves short bursts of energy, running between bases and running to the ball. It is not as strenuous as sports that need you to run for long periods, football for instance.
Softball values teamwork and communication over individual ability, which makes it accessible whatever your physical prowess, age or experience.
What if I can’t catch or throw well? Will I get help?
Yes. Our qualified team of friendly player-coaches will mentor and help new players, whatever your starting skill level.
How do I join a team?
Register as a new player on the Get Involved page and we will be in touch when sessions open again.
Where do you play?
Outdoors on the pitches at Adel War Memorial Sports Ground, Adel Lane, Leeds LS16 8DB. The clubhouse is close by on Church Lane, LS16 8DE, and that is where socials and post-game debriefs happen.
Indoor sessions are at the Gryphon Sports Centre, University of Leeds, Woodsley Road, Leeds LS2 9LZ.
How much does it cost?
For the outdoor season, when you join a team there is a fee that goes towards the team’s BSF and league fees, plus a weekly game fee payable to the LSA.
For indoor sessions, get in touch for current prices.
What equipment do I need?
At training sessions, all equipment is provided.
If you join a team, teams often have equipment for their players to share. As a minimum it is useful to buy your own glove, and we recommend football or hockey boots. Some players like to wear shin guards.
Is there a minimum age?
The minimum age for training sessions and games is 14.
Where and when do you train?
Tuesdays from 6.30pm until dark at the Adel War Memorial Association playing fields through spring and summer, with indoor sessions in winter. Full details are on the Training page.
What about social events?
Leeds Softball organises regular social events, including bowling, pool, laser tag and an end-of-season awards ceremony.
Ask us anything
If your question is not answered above, send it over and someone will come back to you.
Softball in Leeds
