For those that don’t know, softball is a bat-and-ball sport played between two teams of 10 players. It is a direct descendant of baseball, although there are some key differences: softballs are larger than baseballs, and the pitches are thrown underhand rather than overhand. Softball is played on a smaller diamond than in baseball (all this info according to the Jersey Softball Association).

Although knowing the sport helps, knowing your team helps much more. It takes a special bond to play together once or twice every week under serious pressure, as well as practice nearly every single day in above 90 degree weather. Luckily, these girls have it figured out.

I attended my first softball game on October 8th, expecting to watch a regular game play out (like baseball). Instead, I saw what the word “team” meant to these girls. I watched as Rachel Gibson, a senior player that hit 500 strikeouts this year, pitched the ball. I instantly heard the “ding” of the bat and saw it rise up into the air. Her teammates eyes were nearly glued to the ball. When it went in one direction, every girl in the expected target area ran to get it, not just the one that was closest. They were all hungry for the ball, and it showed. 

In my experience of watching sports in person or on TV, I have noticed that of course everyone backs each other up on the field, but what about off the field? These girls were so supportive of each other, even when someone made a mistake. That to me is what a team should be, and they provided an amazing example of it.