By GARY HAVEN
Federal Way National LL softball director
While many youth sports organizations have seen a declining number of participants over the past few years, Federal Way National Little League is booming. Thanks, in part, to the re-energized girls fastpitch softball program.
In 2009, National had more kids registered to play baseball and softball for the first time in over five years. The softball program alone doubled in participants over 2008, and nearly tripled from 2007 — a trend that Federal Way National expects to continue in 2010.
“We work very hard to promote a fun, learning environment for the girls. That is what is important to them, to have fun and play with their friends,” says Gary Haven, softball director at National. “We stress to our coaches and parents that we’re not about hitting home runs, or putting big numbers on the scoreboard, we’re about teaching the girls the game without putting pressure on them to perform.”
While performance on the field isn’t a priority, it is a by-product. In 2008, Federal Way National fielded their first 9- and 10-year-old all-star team, which advanced to the third round of the District 10 Tournament.
In 2009, the 9- and 10-year-old team finished fourth in the tournament. Also in 2009, the combined South Hill/Federal Way National 11- and 12-year-old all-star team won the District 10 Tournament and advanced to the State Tournament.
In 2010, Federal Way National is expanding it’s program and fielding their first Majors Division Softball team. The Majors is considered a competitive division where scores and standings are kept.
“Our goal is to put a competitive team on the field, but make sure the girls know that having fun is their first priority,” Haven said.
Registration for Federal Way National Little League’s softball and baseball programs is currently available online at www.eteamz.com/fwnll. Softball players in the Federal Way area are welcome to register with Federal Way National.
Any questions regarding softball may be directed to GSHaven@comcast.net.
