SOUTH PLAINS GIRLS FASTPITCH

HISTORY OF THE LEAGUE

In November 1997 a small group of about twenty parents got together and discussed forming a girl’s fast pitch softball league. The intent of this league was to offer a parent run fast pitch softball program with a kid's first mentality. At that time the name South Plains Girls Fast pitch Softball League was decided on as to include all the surrounding communities. A few donations were collected and a non-profit corporation was formed. In February of 1998, money was then raised through advertising, sponsorships, and a league wide fundraiser. The league purchased new equipment, and the first season of SPGF was underway with 198 players.

With a tremendous first year behind us, and the second year beginning, the board of directors wondered if fast pitch softball would catch on in Lubbock as they had hoped. In March of 1999, the wondering was over as the league grew from 198 players to 300. The only 100% Fast Pitch softball league was now on solid ground and growing in Lubbock, TX. More funds were raised and improvements were made to all the playing fields.

Year 2000 had now arrived and once again the league grew past our expectations. In 1999, there were 300 players and in 2000, we had increased to 372 players. We reached 100% field capacity and requested additional fields from the City of Lubbock to help with the number of players.

Years 2001 through 2005 consistently repeated the previous seasons with the league growing to 794 players and a new division for 4 to 6 year olds called the Pixie Division. With the league reaching capacity in the year 2000 with 372 players it has become extremely difficult to schedule games with only 3 permanent fields and 2 part time use fields. The City of Lubbock has now recognized the need for additional fields for all youth softball players and has set aside funds to build a new complex.

The City of Lubbock has committed to build 12 new state of the art youth Fast Pitch Softball Fields to come on line in the spring of 2007. This will help facilitate all youth fast pitch girls in the City of Lubbock and surrounding area.

The 2006 season looks to be as promising as the past history for South Plains Girls Fast Pitch League. With many new parent volunteers donating their time and knowledge to help make the league a success, the future only looks brighter for the girls in our community. We are expecting over 800 players this season and are looking to reach 1000 players in 2007 which will make SPGF one of the largest leagues in the State of Texas.

Lets Play Ball!

Jeff Carnell

League Historian

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