Women’s Baseball League
WBL's Mission
Women's Baseball League's mission is to enhance awareness and provide opportunity for female athletes to participate in the game of baseball and to promote the quality and standards of the game
WBL was formed in 1997 by Justine Siegal. In the summer of 1999, the WBL began its inaugural season in Cleveland, OH with a four-team league. In 2000, WBL turned its focus nationally. In 2003, the WBL went International.
Fulfilling Childhood Dreams
Women have been fans of baseball since the inception of baseball in the mid-1800's, but due to varying factors they have not had many opportunities to participate in the Game. Women's Baseball League, Inc. is determined to make this dream a reality. Little boys are not the only ones who dream of being future a Cleveland Indian. Little girls have the same visions of diamond glory.
Some determined girls play alongside the boys in Little League until they are no longer welcomed in the adolescent years, but many girls are discouraged to even try. While many of these girls play softball their passion towards baseball never truly dies. The WBL reminds women of those childhood fantasies of being a Nolan Ryan or Cal Ripken, and gives them the opportunity to fulfill them.
Paving the Way for the Future
Women's Baseball League, Inc. is building the future. Tired of waiting for opportunities to play, the WBL is building them. Founder, Justine Siegal, has an extra motivation to ensure that girls have a place to play baseball.
Siegal explains, " I want my ten -year old daughter to have a place to play baseball." She continues, "my daughter, Jasmine, symbolizes all of the other daughters from around the world who want a chance to participate. This is what the WBL is all about; creating opportunities for the daughters of the world."
John Kovach
AAU Girls Baseball
Patrick McCauley
COGBL President
WBL Advisors
Marie Hartey (not shown)
Media & Sponsors
I was 13, when my baseball coach looked at me and said, ‘I don’t want you here, girls shouldn’t play baseball.’ I didn’t listen.
I am now on my 26th year of playing baseball. I have pitched on 5 continents and 3 international championships.
Wanting to share the great game of baseball with others, I have coached around the world. One of my proudest moments, is serving as an IBAF coach for the World Children’s Baseball Fair. I am currently an assistant coach for the Springfield College baseball team (where I am currently pursuing a PhD in Sport Psychology).
The power of sport is in its ability to fulfill dreams. The WBL gives girls the chance to follow their dreams of baseball glory. I believe that by fulfilling these dreams, we can help propel the greatness that lies in each girl; it is that greatness that will shine for the rest of their lives, changing the world for the better.
Nikki Ross
BC Umpire Instructor