Back row (L-R): Alex Rigert, Emma Brown, Rachel Timm, James Wheeler, David Morris, James Clarke, Ben Sawkins
Front row (L-R): Zita Racz, Vicky Cathie, Janice Morgan, Danielle Clarke, Jenny Dunn
The Chichester Falcons Softball Club was formed in the summer of 2011, following the success of the local hospital’s X-Ray department team in two tournaments.
Falcons' Coach James Wheeler saw the potential in the players,led by second base player Jenny Dunn, and kept the team – named after Chichester’s most famous avian inhabitants – training regularly while also recruiting new players.
Now, after almost a year of recruitment, the team is ready to take flight in the Solent Softball League.
Wide experience
The Falcons may be a new team, but they can draw on the experience of players from other Solent League teams as well as from the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and Guernsey.
James Wheeler and David Morris have earned their coaching badges through BSUK courses, and are indebted to BSUK's South East Regional Coach Stan Doney for his advice and encouragement in getting the Falcons underway.
Since registering with the British Softball Federation, the Falcons have also recruited players who found their way to the club via the BSF website.
Quick dividends
The Falcons’ emphasis on coaching fundamental skills in a fast-paced training environment has already paid dividends in two indoor winter tournaments.
Having worked with the local Council to establish their own home field, the fledgling team is looking to the upcoming season with great enthusiasm.