Results of the 6th Inter Zonal National Softball Championship 2015

Action during the Men’s finals between West and North Zone

It might be searing hot in Anantapur(close to 43°C), the Inter Zonal Softball Championship2015 did not fail to impress all those who witnessed the athleticism showcased by softball athletes from all over the country. Every pitch thrown, every big hit and all the clever stealing of bases entertained everyone.

The competition, which began on Friday, the 29 thof May, running through until the 31stof May, brought together some of the best softball athletes (both male and female) in the country, most of whom have been to the India camp at least a couple of times. This tournament marks the end of the softball season, but was used as a platform to motivate younger teams that make way to Mumbai for the PONY games softball Nationals for U-10 & U-13 age categories with more enthusiasm and vigor.

The Secretary of the softball Association of India, Dr.Pravin Anaokar, understands the importance of a strong grassroots structure to help build and grow softball as a popular sport in India, therefore viewing this tournament as a stepping stone to recruit young talent to mentor and coach beginners interested in Softball to develop them into competent athletes. It is these senior players who know and understand the game well and will go on to become coaches to younger athletes from schools and nearby localities, hopes Dr. Anaokar with an optimistic smile.

Welcoming the athletes to the tournament, which was held at the Anantapur Sports Academy, Mr. Moncho Ferrer,President of the Andhra Pradesh Softball Association,brought everyone alive with inspiring words, saying that ‘’As sports persons everyone dreams big; to be at the pinnacle of their sport, these dreams can come true, only with discipline, hard work and dedication, but most importantly with self belief ’’.

Andhra Pradesh Softball Association President, RDT & ASA Program Director, Mr. Moncho Ferrer addressing athletes at the opening ceremony.

The competition was played in a league format, with the top two teams scoring the highest points playing out the final.

In the men’s competition, however the teams in the league stage were tied with equal points. This meant that the West Zone boys edged the home side, the South Zone,on loss margin difference to play the North Zone in the final. The women’s competition saw similar rivalry,and though the host team South Zone had their eyes on the cup, they had to settle as runners up, losing out while having to try and strike out the win against North Zone girls.

Winners, North Zone, all smiles after storming through the competition by in both the Men’s & Women’s categories

This Inter Zonal National Softball Championship, apart from being an attraction to young aspirants wanting to join the sport, was also to be used as a tournament for identifying probables for the softball national camp. The tournament ended with Dr.Anaokar,expressing his gratitude to RDT, Anantapur Sports Academy and officials for organizing this tournament in an efficient manner.