Five Things To Look Forward To In Softball In 2021

By Benita Lukose
on December 31, 2020

As the year 2020 nears its much-anticipated end, there is so much to look forward to in the sport of softball in 2021.

In an effort to get ready for what's to come over the next 12 months, Softball America compiled a list of five things that we can't wait to see happen on the field in 2021. See below for our full list.

Women's College World Series

When the college softball season abruptly ended in March, the 2020 Women's College World Series—and national television reveal of the highly-anticipated renovations at USA Softball Half of Fame Stadium—was canceled. In 2021, the WCWS is scheduled to take place in Oklahoma City from June 3 to June 9, 2021.

Athletes Unlimited Softball

The first season of the new professional softball league debuted over the summer to rave reviews and featured 57 of the world's top players. The league introduced several firsts in pro softball, such as its partnerships with social change organizations and a unique scoring system. Athletes Unlimited is set to return to action in late August 2021.

Tokyo Olympics

After being postponed because of COVID-19, softball is scheduled to make its return to the Olympic Games from July 20 to July 27, 2021. The Tokyo Olympics softball program will feature the national teams from Japan, the United States, Canada, Australia, Mexico and Italy.

Recruiting Dead Period Ends

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-person recruiting seized for all Division I sports for much of 2020. As of now, however, the recruiting dead period is set to end on April 15, 2021.

Florida Gulf Coast League

The Florida Gulf Coast League debuted for softball in the summer of 2020, offering several college players the opportunity to compete at a high level during the collegiate offseason. The league plans to feature 10 teams for the 2021 summer season ahead, which will be comprised of college softball athletes from different NCAA divisions and conferences.