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Can softball ever become an Olympic sport again?

Carmel Mowday

As a sports enthusiast and industry expert, I believe that the chances of softball becoming an Olympic sport again are quite favorable. Softball is a sport that is popular among many nations, particularly in Asia, the Americas and Europe, and has been played for several decades. However, it was removed from the Olympic program after the 2008 Beijing Games.

There are several reasons why proponents of softball want to see it back in the Olympics. Firstly, the sport has grown significantly since the Beijing Games and is now played in more than 140 countries. This growth is a testament to the sport's global appeal and underscores the need for the sport to receive the recognition that it deserves. Moreover, the sport has seen an influx of investment and talent since it was removed from the Olympic program, with many countries creating national teams and organizing international competitions.

Secondly, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has expressed interest in reinstituting softball and baseball as Olympic sports. In 2016, the IOC executive board voted in favor of adding these two sports to the Tokyo Olympics program in 2020, citing the popularity of these sports around the world. The decision was a welcome development for many softball enthusiasts who hope to see their beloved sport back in the Olympics soon.

Additionally, the inclusion of softball in the Olympics could have a positive impact on the development of the sport. With the Olympics being the pinnacle of sporting events, it would attract more funding, sponsorship and attention from the media, which in turn would create more opportunities for young players and help to expand the game further.

In conclusion, softball has a strong case for being reinstated as an Olympic sport. It has a significant following around the world, it has seen increased investment and participation globally, and there is support from key stakeholders. If the IOC chooses to include softball in future Olympic programs, it would be a boost for the sport and its players, providing a platform for it to continue growing and inspiring the next generation of softball enthusiasts.