Frequently asked questions
The best way is to send us an email and a committee member will be in touch!
What's the difference between Coventry Blitz Softball Club and the Coventry Softball League (CSL)?
Coventry Blitz sits at the top level of our community. We travel the country playing tournaments as Coventry Blitz and all socials are run at this level. The CSL was created to offer a competitive element to our members and players are assigned to teams - but we are still one big community at heart!
How are the teams organised?
The central committee grade players and use these ratings to balance the teams as best as possible. Our aim is to have close and enjoyable games!
Where / When do you play?
Our outdoor season runs April - September every Wednesday at Bishop Ullathorne School. Training starts at 6pm and league games start at 6.15 and we finish around 8.15.
Can I join mid-season?
Yes! If there are no available slots on a team you will be added to our player pool for team captains to call upon should rostered players not be available. Captains must reach out to this pool before trying other teams so there is a good chance you will get a call!
How much does it cost?
You get your first two (outdoor) training sessions free of charge. Annual club membership is required after 4 sessions and starts from £20. In order to be a rostered player in the league we require that membership and game subs are paid in advance. This is our 'double' membership and costs £50 but will be reduced pro-rata as the season goes on. Pool players are required to take the £20 single membership and then games are charged at £4 per game whilst training sessions cost £3 (though options are available to cover all sessions!). Please get in touch to discuss! One thing is for sure, we do not want finance to be a barrier to participation!
Are there opportunities to play beyond the scheduled fixtures?
Yes! We run a training session alongside each game for the teams not playing that week..or to welcome new players to the club! In addition there are also a handful of weeks where we get together as a whole club for a larger group training.
Do you play in the rain?
Mostly! A decision will be made by the club committee whether it is safe to play and updates will be posted on social media / Whatsapp should we need to cancel. Note for Lightening we operate a 30 minute since last strike policy.
What equipment do I need?
Sturdy shoes with good grip and suitable sports clothing. Football boots are permitted. If you have your own glove and bat, that's great, bring them along! If you are completely new to the sport then don't worry, we have kit you can use!
I have never played before, is this a problem?
No! We welcome players of all abilities and experience. Our experienced players will help to guide you and we will tailor training drills where required. For league games we also have a 'Rookie Recall' option available.
Do you need to be really fit to play?
No! Softball is perfect for anyone who wants to spend more time outside participating in some fun and friendly sport. Everyone is welcome at Coventry Blitz!
Are there any age requirements?
We currently welcome players 14+ with no upper age limit! Parental permission forms are required for each under 18 player to participate in softball activities and can be completed here. Under 18 players are regularly assessed for suitability to play with adults as per British Softball Federation guidelines. This covers a range of criteria and not just playing ability. There are also specific youth player equipment requirements. Please contact us to discuss.
Are you LGBTQ+ Friendly?
Absolutely! We provide a safe and supportive environment to play so that everyone feels included with Blitz! We were also one of the 3 inaugral teams to play in the Birmingham Pride in Softball tournament in 2021 (and helped with sourcing a venue!). A 2016 survey by BaseballSoftballUK suggested that 14% of softball players identify as LGBTQ+, compared to roughly 8% of the population as a whole. You can read more about BSUK and LGBTQ+ here.