Fastpitch softball, or simply fastpitch, is a form of softball played by both women and men. While the teams are most often segregated by sex, coed fast-pitch leagues also exist. Considered the most competitive form of softball, fastpitch is the format played at the Olympic Games. Softball was on the International Olympic Committee (IOC) program in 1996, 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2020. It will not be a part of the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris.
Megan Gibson-Loftin pitching in the "windmill" motion for Texas A&M
A Danish pitcher demonstrates the underhand release of the ball.
The pitching circle, seen here at ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City, is a required part of ASA and ISF fastpitch softball.
Softball is a sport similar to baseball, and it is played with a larger ball on a smaller field and with only underhand pitches permitted. Softball is played competitively at club levels, the college level, and the professional level. The game was first created in 1887 in Chicago by George Hancock.
A pitcher about to deliver a fastpitch (windmill pitch), where the ball is released while the hand is primarily below the ball
First photo of a softball team, Chicago, 1897
Indoor baseball player, 1907
A modern optic yellow softball
