Yorkshire Hippos

Formed in 2018, the Yorkshire Hippos are a friendly and welcoming slowpitch softball team based in Leeds. Founded by the mercurial Daniel Brodgen (now tearing it up in the UAE leagues), the Hippos have enjoyed flashes of glory, including victory in the inaugural Leeds FirstBall Plate in 2024 and winning the Leeds Softball Division 2 title in 2021, which earned them a debut at Nationals in 2022. With a growing roster and a steadily improving squad, the Hippos are aiming for tournament triumphs and league success throughout 2025. Captaincy is shared between pitcher Jack Pitfield, one of the founding members, and the ever-committed Danielle Startin, who both bring a steady hand and fierce determination to the team. This season, the Hippos are delighted to welcome home Igor Kritivsy, a founding member of the original lineup, returning to his true Hippo habitat. Whether it’s on the pitch or at the pub, the Hippos are all about teamwork, fun, and bringing the energy, one swing at a time.