A record entry for county competitions show that softball is thriving in Wexford

The unique sound of the alleycracker is about to be heard once more throughout the county as the softball (60×30) season gets underway. The popularity of the ‘Big Red’ has never wavered in Wexford and even after another long and very successful season on the 4-wall (40×20) courts of Ireland, the handballers of the county have enthusiasically turned their attention back to our traditional game. A record 275 entries have been received for our adult championships and leagues, and when juvenile entries are added to those numbers, the figure is comfortably in excess of 300. It’s a massive vote of confidence in a code that was first played almost 100 years ago, and while doubts about its ability to survive the arrival of 40×20 and 1-wall have been articulated at various times and by various people over the years, the message from the ‘Home of Softball‘ is that this game is breathing on its own and looking towards a bright future! 

Softball matters in Wexford, and anyone present at Castlebridge last September when Gavin Buggy and Galen Riordan defeated Meath to win the All Ireland senior softball doubles will know only too well the raw emotion this game is capable of generating even amongst the most hardened handball enthusiasts on Slaneyside. There is something about this ancient code that mobilises people in Wexford and makes taking part, whether a volunteer or player, such an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

The action kicks off next week with matches in the county singles league fixed for several venues. To see the full programme click Fixture 1 April 24-30

For the league groups click 2023 David Stanners Painting & Decorating county softball singles league groups