FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Irish Softball Celebrates LA 2028 recommendation to include Softball in 2028 Olympic Games
Dublin, Ireland – October 9, 2023 – The Irish Softball community is thrilled to welcome the recommendation by LA 2028 to include softball in the 2028 Olympic Games. This decision, if approved by the IOC Executive Board, marks a momentous opportunity for Irish Softball, providing our athletes with a genuine opportunity to qualify and compete at the pinnacle of the sporting world.
Should softball’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympic Games be confirmed by the IOC Executive Board it is a testament to the growth, dedication, and passion that the sport has seen globally over the last number of years. Irish softballers have done their bit and have been working tirelessly to promote and develop the sport which included the hosting of Group A of the Softball World Cup in July 2023.
“This is a moment that many people in the global game have worked for. The recommendation comes from the tireless work of WBSC President Fraccari, WBSC Softball Chair Craig Cress and WBSC Executive Director Michael Schmidt who have pushed nonstop for the re-inclusion of Softball & Baseball into the Olympic games. In Ireland, we are incredibly excited about the opportunity to try qualify for the games and hopefully showcase Irish Softball on the global stage at the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles,” said Dr. Melanie Cunningham, Director of Fastpitch Softball in Ireland. “The inclusion of softball in the Olympic program will inspire our athletes, encourage more young talent to take up the sport, and further solidify our presence in the international softball community.”
The journey to the 2028 Olympics will be an exciting one for Irish Softball, with national teams working tirelessly to qualify and represent Ireland at the highest level. The sport’s values of teamwork, fair play, and perseverance perfectly align with the Olympic spirit, making it a fitting addition to the Olympic program.
Irish Softball extends its gratitude to LA 2028 for recognizing the value of softball in promoting international friendship and competition. Irish Softball also encourages the International Olympic Committee to adopt the recommendations of the LA 2028.
Media Contact:
Colum Lavery
President
Softball Ireland
president@softball.ie
+353867708576