Your Name
Joshua Peat
Your GB Team
Men's Fastpitch Team
What position do you normally play?
Outfield
If you could play any other position what would it be and why?
I would like to start playing more infield – second base or shortstop. This is where I started to train in the Under-19s so this is where I'm looking at playing.
How long have you been playing softball?
10 years
How did you first get introduced to softball?
I first got introduced in primary school when I was 10 years old. Two guys from America ran a PE lesson and gave us some information about a local softball and baseball team for kids that had started up. Once the baseball team in my area folded, I started to play slowpitch softball at the age of 14. Then at the age of 18 I was introduced to fastpitch softball. Now I've been playing for two years practising all positions, including pitching.
What do you like best about softball?
The best thing I like about softball is pushing myself to improve with everything – batting, fielding, baserunning and also my pitching. Also, playing with different people around the world and getting to travel to places I've never been to play the sport I love.
What is your best GB softball memory?
My best GB memory is going to the World Championships with the GB Men's Team, going up to bat against the best pitchers in the world.
What softball drills do you think help you most in the specific position you play?
When I'm playing infield, working on ground balls – glove control and being able to make a fast transfer to throw the ball. Mainly getting loads of repetition of ground balls.
Tell us a little about the best play you have ever made during a game.
Playing against a local team and their best batter came up to the plate. I was in left field. He hits the ball my way and everyone thinks it has gone right over me, he thinks he's got a home run, but I kept running back and dove out and caught the ball.
Now that you’ve re-lived some glory, tell us about your most embarrassing moment on a softball field – the play you wish no one had ever seen!
When I was pitching in the local Fastpitch League, I was pitching to this one person and hit them on the leg by accident and left a big bruise. I didn't hit anyone before them or after them until they came up again and somehow I hit them just above the bruise, which created another one.
What’s your favourite pre-game and post-game meal?
Pre-game meal – bacon sandwich (normally have an early start).
Post-game meal would have to be some kind of meat with loads of vegetables and mashed potato.
Do you have a favourite player or role model in softball?
As I was growing up I always looked up to Steve Hazard as he was the guy that I played softball with at the time and spent a lot of time training with.
Many baseball and softball players are known to be superstitious. Do you have any game day superstitions?
When I'm in the field I'll always put some dirt on my fingertips for more grip, to throw the ball.
Who is your favourite song, singer and group?
The Script.
What is your favourite country that you’ve visited for softball or on holiday – and why?
So far I would have to say New Zealand – just the life style of how they live, being able to wake up and walk to the beach – and the views are just amazing. Seems like a good place for my family to grow up.
Do you play any other sports or take part in any activities besides softball?
Parkour / free running.
Do you have any advice for younger players who are starting to play softball and hope to be selected for a GB National Team?
Make sure you enjoy the sport, try your best, push yourself to get better. Be determined to get better. Don't give up.