Wheelchair softball is played on hard surfaces, such as a parking lots and specially designed fields. A 16-inch softball eliminates the need for a glove.
The game is played under the official rules of 16-inch slow-pitch softball as approved by the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASAA), with some exceptions geared toward the wheelchair user, such as extending first base into foul territory. Teams throughout America compete on a regular basis and host several tournaments throughout the summer. The National Wheelchair Softball Association (NWSA) hosts an annual, national wheelchair softball tournament.
The NWSA governs more than 30 teams nationwide. Many teams have sought and found allegiance and sponsorship with their Major League Baseball (MLB) team counterparts, such as the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Colorado Rockies, Minnesota Twins, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies. All wear official MLB uniforms and compete with pride under their respective professional team's logo.
Who Can Participate
Wheelchair softball is available to athletes in the following categories:
- amputees
- spinal cord injured/wheelchair
- cerebral palsy/brain injury/stroke
NCHPAD Resource: