With the class having split into two teams, a DSF instructor gives softball instructions, the first introduction to the game. (Photo courtesy of Danish Softball Federation)

SOFTBALL GROWTH CONTINUES IN DENMARK
2006-11-30

The Danish Softball Federation (DSF) has reported good growth throughout this calendar year. The national governing body (NGB) for softball in Denmark has informed the International Softball Federation that membership has risen 24%.

The DSF has indicated that major growth is “primarily among very young boys” (age 12-and-under), with an increase of 27% in that category. A growth of 29% has been seen in the membership of girls in the same age range. The DSF stated that, “The growth can, among other things, be explained by the principal focus of (their) Federation (having) been directed toward the junior players.”

Denmark’s softball NGB has organized twelve school tournaments in the clubs across the country, with a total of 1,115 participating children. Softball training has been done in 14 public schools with approximately 700 children participating. Three junior camps (for ages 10-17) with a total of 49 participants have been organized, as well as a national camp with 24 participating juniors.

The ISF sent instructor Rocci Pignoli to a Nordic camp this year, which the DSF said was very beneficial. In connection with the school tournaments, school visits, and through the DSF’s website, 45 “starter kits” from the ISF have been distributed and the schools are still acquiring more in preparation for the spring.

Under the leadership of President Bo Orla-Jensen, the DSF feels they still have “major growth potential,” and are becoming a good model for ISF member federations that are continuing to grow the game of softball worldwide.