The Summer Slam – Fully Loaded Softball is a world-first innovative fast paced competition that will define a new era for the sport of softball.
The inaugural tournament was held at the Blacktown International Sportspark in Sydney from 4 – 6 February 2019, and broadcast live in prime-time by Fox Sports, The Summer Slam – Fully Loaded Softball was certainly a hit with both players and fans alike.
The high performance event, for open women’s players, features six franchised teams made up of Australia’s elite women’s softball representatives joined by international players from several of the world’s top 12 ranked teams.
New rules are introduced for the tournament with the entire format of the new game designed to put more pressure on players to perform right from the very first pitch.
“The Summer Slam – Fully Loaded Softball has reshaped the landscape of the game in Australia and provides an edge of your seat experience for spectators and fans as well as a high-pressure environment for our talented players,” David Pryles, Softball Australia CEO said.
“Held in the world class 2000 Olympic Softball venue, Blacktown International Sportspark, The Summer Slam – Fully Loaded Softball drew new audiences to the sport, and fueled the passion that many past and present players have for this great game,” Pryles continued.
The Summer Slam – Fully Loaded Softball is a concept players and coaches have completely bought in to and resulted in an exciting, fast paced and most importantly of all, a highly enjoyable experience for both fans and athletes.
"We're all up every single batter, no matter who's on the bench, we're just up and loud,” said Bandits and Australian softball star, Janice Blackman.
"I can really see it being played at a junior level because it's just so much fun, it gives the girls a bit of time to let off some steam too.”
“FOX SPORTS Australia is delighted to be partnering with Softball Australia and broadcasting The Summer Slam - Fully Loaded Softball live for Australian viewers.”
Summer Slam Points System
In the Summer Slam, games will be played for the full three innings, regardless of if the team second at bat has already won the game after 2.5 innings (ie. going into the bottom of the 3rd innings).
Win by less than 5 runs
3 Points – winning team
1 Points – losing team
Win by 5-9 runs
4 Points – winning team
0 Points – losing team
Win by 10-14 runs
5 Points – winning team
0 Points – losing team
Win by 15-19 runs
6 Points – winning team
0 Points – losing team
Win by 20+ runs
7 Points – winning team
0 Points – losing team
“The Summer Slam - Fully Loaded Softball reshaped the landscape of the game in Australia and provides an edge of your seat experience for spectators and fans as well as a high-pressure environment for our talented players.”
“I am extremely excited about the concept behind The Summer Slam - Fully Loaded Softball and can’t wait to get out there on the diamond and compete in such a high-pressure, but fun environment alongside not only my fellow Travelodge Aussie Spirit team mates but also some of the superstars of softball around the world.”
Broadcast Information
The inaugural Summer Slam - Fully Loaded Softball Series was broadcast live and in prime time on FOX SPORTS Australia and Kayo Sports.
Broadcast information will follow once dates are confirmed for the 2020 tournament.
In the meantime, replays of the inaugural tournament are available to subscribers of Kayo Sports.