Mayor Stimpson Welcomes the American Softball Association to Mobile
Apr 3rd, 2018
Mayor Stimpson is excited to welcome the American Softball Association (ASBA) to Mobile."This is a home run for Mobile," said Mayor Stimpson. "I want to thank ASBA for investing in our city. Their presence serves as proof that Mobile is becoming a sports destination. We have a strong tradition of sports in Mobile producing legendary professional athletes, and this only builds on that success. I look forward to welcoming these outstanding athletes to our city."
ASBA is the hottest new league in women's sports, offering an exciting alternative for softball players looking to turn pro. The league will initially consist of four teams that will compete in Mobile, Alabama from June 15 through July 31, 2018. The player draft will take place on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at 9 PM CT.
Michael Chiaradio, CEO and Founder of parent company, Pro Softball Club, Inc., recognized the need for another professional softball outlet.
"Traditionally, the end of college has meant the end of the road for elite softball players," said Chiaradio. "Opportunities to play professionally have been largely limited and the odds high. The ASBA has tapped into that void."
The ASBA was built on a revenue-sharing model that guarantees an equal distribution between players and the league. Salaries will be paid from all softball related income which includes, but is not limited to ticket sales, proceeds from the ASBA Network, concessions, local sponsorship agreements, and merchandise sales.
"We look at this as a cooperative venture. We split all monies 50/50 with the teams and reinvest our portion into growing and developing the league. We look forward to forming lasting relationships with local merchants and businesses," Chiaradio said.
The ASBA is also looking for community support in housing players this summer. Host families need only to provide a private bedroom and bureau or closet. Hosts are not required to feed, transport, or in any way finance the players.
"The impact that host families and players make on each other's lives is immeasurable, with relationships often lasting a lifetime," said Joseph Donaldson, the company's Chief Branding Officer and a Mobile native.
ASBA's holistic approach to the game assures that a player's success extends far beyond the field. Fastpitch softball is used as a vehicle to promote general well-being, provide safe social stimulation and reinforce emotional health. By focusing on education, community involvement and mentorship, the ASBA empowers young women to be both productive and benevolent members of society.