1939: Softball

Softball gained in momentum in the United States in 1939 in both number of players (about 1,000,000 play the game) and of spectators. Because the game is played on a smaller diamond than baseball (and has ten instead of nine players), it is faster and provides more thrills to both players and spectators. Under the supervision of the Amateur Softball Association of America, the game is making remarkable progress with its well-organized teams of young men and women playing it from coast to coast.

Nearly one hundred of the top teams went through preliminary games in the national championship won by the Covington (Ky.) Boosters men's team, after conquering the Columbus (Ohio) team in the finals. Among the girls' teams the competition was every bit as spirited, and the playing technic reached a high level. The Alameda (Calif.) Girls, who in 1938 won the women's national championship under the name of the J. J. Kriegs, retained their laurels in 1939, overcoming the Louisville (Ky.) team in the finals.

The title of the Metropolitan League, for which six topnotch squads competed, was won by the Newark-Linder team of girls. The Roverettes and the Americanettes, representing New York in the women's contests, played their games in Madison Square Garden. The former won 25 and lost 13; and the latter captured 20 and dropped 15. In 8 games between the two teams, the Americanettes prevailed, 5-3, bringing new thrills and a new game indoors.

Like baseball, softball is now becoming popular in many nearby countries.