The Story Behind Melbourne Softball
1982? That seems recent for something that feels so established!
While the Melbourne Softball Association was officially formed in 1982, softball has deep roots at Fawkner Park stretching back four decades earlier.
The War Years Beginning (1942)
Softball first took hold in Melbourne during World War II when American troops stationed locally challenged Australian nurses to games. This friendly rivalry sparked the creation of the first organized competition in 1942, based at The Domain and Fawkner Park.
The earliest local teams—the Rebels and the Posties—became the founding forces behind the Victorian Women's Softball Association, established in December 1942. This organization would evolve through several name changes over the decades:
- Victorian Women's Softball Association (1942)
- Victorian Amateur Softball Council of Victoria
- Victorian Softball Association Inc
- Softball Victoria (current name)
Statewide Expansion
The Victorian Women's Softball Association didn't limit itself to Melbourne. Over the following decades, it fostered softball development across Victoria, helping establish 24 affiliated associations throughout the state.
The expansion began with associations in major regional centers—Ballarat, Geelong, Horsham, Albury, and Sunshine—and eventually extended to areas like Keilor Park.
The 1982 Restructure
By 1982, softball had grown significantly beyond its Melbourne origins. To better serve the sport statewide, leaders decided to restructure the organization:
- The Melbourne Softball Association was formed as an affiliated association
- The Victorian Softball Association transitioned to serve as the umbrella body representing all associations across Victoria
This restructure allowed for more focused local administration while maintaining strong statewide coordination.
A Living Legacy
Fawkner Park's softball community represents decades of shared history. Whether you've played yourself, know someone who has, or simply remember watching games there, you're connected to this remarkable 80-year journey from wartime recreation to organized sport.
For the complete story, including personal memories and detailed milestones, the Melbourne Softball Association's 25th anniversary commemorative booklet provides a comprehensive look at this rich sporting heritage.