National Federation support is the key ingredient behind improving the level of softball is Southeast Asia said Softball Asia Coaching Committee chair Yutaka Miyake following the WBSC Asia Softball Certification Seminar held in Penang, Malaysia earlier this year.
"I truly believe that the countries that had their coaches certified at the Seminar in Malaysia have enough potential to grow," Miyake, who is also the Vice President of Japan Softball, said. "The support of a National Federation is the key to the development of softball in countries of this region. The Federation can build a relation with the Government and the Olympic Committee."
The Singapore Men's U-18 side, ranked 17th in the world, recorded it's best ever finish at a WBSC event when it finished ninth at the WBSC U-18 Men's Softball World Cup 2020 in Palmerston North last month including an historic upset win over Argentina in their opening game.
However, for Miyake, it's women's softball where Southeast Asia has a lot of potential to grow, adding it is not only a matter of talent. "I think the level of women's softball in Southeast Asia is still low, compared to other countries in the region. But I saw pitchers in Singapore that have the same talent of some pitchers we have in Japan. Skills are needed, to develop players. Good administration is also needed.
"I also believe that venues are very important. The task of having first-rate venues is not an easy one to accomplish, I'm aware of that."
With softball competing with other sports for kids' attention, Miyake pinpointed finance and communication as two key areas, which will help grow the game even further in the region.
"It is very important that we give a chance to girls and boys to keep practicing softball once they are out of school. Corporate support is relevant, but financial aid can also come from cities and prefectures.
"Everyone, in every country in Southeast Asia should communicate and exchange information, skills, ideas and so on to grow together."
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