The Manchester Softball Leauge (MSL) - www.manchestersoftball.co.uk

There has been a Softball league in Manchester since the late 1980s. In 2008, there are 26 teams playing in three divisions every Tuesday (3rd div.) at Parrs Wood School, and Wednesday (1st & 2nd div.) at Manchester University Sports Grounds, Wythenshawe, from the April until the end of August. The League teams consists of adults (minimum age 14, U18s must be accompanied) playing co-ed (i.e. mixed sex) softball. Some are 'works' teams, others are based historically on some of the local parks. The first division is generally made up of more established and experienced teams, the second has teams in their 3rd or 4th year on the way up, plus some older teams just regrouping. The third division includes some newer, less experienced teams still learning the ropes.

Spectators and new players are more than welcome. Just come along to Parrs Wood on a Tuesday or MUSG on a Wednesday and introduce yourself. You can also contact people/teams through this website. We are also keen to have new teams join the League. Whether you are an individual or a whole team wishing to play, joining the MSL is easy: just go to the recruitment page for details.

The League plays International Softball Federation (ISF) rules with minor local variations. Each team must field 10 players, five men and five women.

Pitch fees are £40 per team (£30 in Div 3) per match and there is a compulsory affiliation fee to British Softball Federation (BSF) of £140 for 'C' & 'D' graded Recreational Teams and £160 for 'B' graded teams. New teams pay a reduced fee of £70 to allow them to buy equipment - though Manchester Softball League are happy to loan out equipment to help teams out further. The fee covers insurance for the League and allows our teams to compete on a national level and benefit from the BSF's role as national Softball governing body. Getting cheap and custom lanyards for team members is also an additional cost.

The MSL website contains further information about MSL, including results and fixtures during the season. Please mail any comments and suggestions to the Communications officer.