Playing Softball in Europe
Playing
Softball in Europe has become more and more popular. A lot of girls
wanted to continue playing softball and until the NPF started in 2004,
there were not many opportunities in the USA. And of course getting a
chance to be in Europe is a big plus, because it’s not only about
softball. In many other places, sports agents help teams to find the
right players, as well as helping players to find the right opportunity
for themselves. But there are not many agents out there who care about
softball. I realized a lot of teams in Europe would love to add an
experienced player, but simply have no idea how to get in touch with
one. Also, players from the USA, Australia, etc. have a hard time
understanding softball in Europe; the way leagues work and how teams
are organized. That’s the main reason this site was developed. Most of
the girls I placed with teams over the past years loved their
experience. So let’s hope this site will help both players and teams in
Europe.
What is offered? Most clubs in Europe operate under a low budget and have very few main sponsors that provide towards its budget. Clubs rely on small donations from many different sponsors to make up its budget. This budget can vary from year to year as more sponsors come and go. Each club will make you an offer based on its budget for that year. The club with the highest budget doesn't mean that it will always have the best team, and the reverse, the club with the lowest budget could have the best team. There are many factors that translate into this reason. In general, clubs are willing to pay for all of your transportation to and from point of origin. Once in Europe, the club will set you up with a host family, player, or your own furnished apartment. Each club will also give you a salary each month. Based on each club's budget, they might also set you up with a bicycle, local bus or train ticket, or maybe even a car. Some clubs may even provide you with free meals during your stay. Each club will have their own package to offer you. It will be up to you to negotiate the final offer, but don't forget that native players don't get any of this. So depending on each clubs budget during that year, you could get a lot of Free-Bee's just for wanting to play or coach softball in Europe.
Quote by Shoeless Joe Jackson
"I loved the game. I'd have played for food money. I'd have played for free and worked for food. It was the game, the parks, the smells, the sounds. Have you ever held a bat or a baseball to your face? The varnish, the leather. And it was the crowd, the excitement of them rising as one when the ball was hit deep. The sound was like a chorus. It makes me tingle all over like a kid on his way to his first double-header, just to talk about it."
