Given the lack of space available in the Gaza Strip and the absence of a proper field, the association decided to introduce Baseball5 which they learned autonomously via the Internet. Now the association is creating a team and it aims to patriciate in the upcoming Baseball5 international competitions.
Gaza, PALESTINE — Little over 12 months ago, the WBSC delivered Baseball/Softball starter kits to the Gaza strip. Since then, the Palestinian Baseball/Softball Association started involving local men and women to the sport.
Currently 100 young men and 80 women are gathering twice a week to play Baseball and Softball, in total Mr. Mahmoud Tafesh and his brother put together 8 men’s and 6 women’s team organized by age category.
Given the lack of space available in the Gaza Strip and the absence of a proper field, the association decided to introduce Baseball5 which they learned autonomously via the Internet. Now the association is creating a team and it aims to patriciate in the upcoming Baseball5 international competitions.
WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari commented, “this is a clear example of the power of team sport and its unique capability of bringing people together. Team sports not only carry all the physical and psychological benefit of the sporting activity for those who practice it, but also, have the capacity to engage whole communities that often unite behind a team from which they feel represented.” Further Fraccari added, “I am proud to see that Baseball5 made its way into the Gaza Strip, one of the most densely populated places on heart, and where daily life is often a struggle.”
The Baseball and Softball association in Gaza in now working with the local authorities, the National Olympic Committee and the WBSC to be recognize as national governing body and become a WBSC member.
