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National Girls Fastpitch Softball Returns for 31st Tournament

Last updated on Friday, July 20, 2018

(BLOOMINGTON) - The Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department and Visit Bloomington are partnering to host a national softball tournament in Bloomington next week.

The USA Softball Girls' Class A 16-Under Fastpitch Northern National Championships will be held July 26-29 at Twin Lakes Sports Park and Winslow Sports Complex ballfields in Bloomington.

Forty teams representing 11 different states begin the tournament with pool play at 8 a.m. July 26 at both sports parks. Tournament play will end with the championship game scheduled for July 29 at Twin Lakes Sports Park.

Pete Nelson, Sports Sales Manager for Visit Bloomington, said the staff at Visit Bloomington is preparing to welcome about 1,800 softball players and spectators to town. "We are looking for this tournament to have an overall economic impact of around $1.2 million in Bloomington and Monroe County," Nelson said, focused in the hospitality, restaurant, and retail sectors.

Tournament director John Turnbull, sports division director for the City's Parks and Recreation Department, said, "This is our Department's 31st national softball tournament since Twin Lakes Sports Park was built in 1992. Bloomington is able to bring tournaments like this one to town because we have excellent facilities, and a first-rate staff that knows how to run first-class tournaments. We are proud of our ability to attract these events to our community for the benefit of the local economy."

Indiana teams that qualified to compete in this prestigious national tournament are: Indiana Gators, Jasper; Indiana Shockwaves Howard, Brazil; and Indy Crush Hansen, Indianapolis.

"It's an honor to get to welcome all of the athletes, families, and fans to Bloomington for another Fastpitch Tournament this summer," said Mayor John Hamilton. "In between games, explore this city we love! Take a hike at Lake Griffy, wander through the Farmers' Market, and take in a performance or an art show. Oh, and Bloomington folks, here's our chance to check out some excellent softball competition! Best of luck to all the teams!"

Residents are welcome to attend the games. Daily admission to games at Twin Lakes Sports Park and Winslow Sports Complex is $6 for adults and $3 for youth ages 17 years and younger. Tournament passes for admission to all tournament games are $15 for adults and $8 for youth ages 17 and younger.

To see a complete list of competing teams, or to track game scores during the tournament, visit the national tournament website at bloomingtonnationals.com. Game scores, photos, and tournament information will be updated live on Facebook at Bloomington National Softball Tournament.

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