(Trinidad Guardian) Soft ball cricket, an art of the sport developed in Guyana is now big among Caribbean nationals living in New York. Guyanese cricketers starved for cricket in North America decided to form the New York Soft Ball League and today they have a total of 57 teams competing in 15-over, 20-over and 30-over formats in the State of New York. On Sunday, the parks are filled with Caribbean nationals (mainly Guyanese) playing the sport and it is also catching on with the Americans who come out to see the game. Umpiring official Naro Narotam explains that the sport is attracting good attention in the land of milk and honey.
“On Sundays there are good crowds coming out to see the games and this is good because it gives the players a chance to bring out their family to a fun exciting event. “The games are fiercely competitive and players play as hard as if they were playing the hard ball traditional format.” The NYSCL continues to welcome new members year after year. Due to their broad offerings of cricket, they meet all of our members’ needs. This way, many of the activities created over the years are not only fun but they also help lead healthier lives. The NYSCL also offer sport activities which are mostly for fun and not only for health and fitness. Because one thing unites the Caribbean people is mixing sport with fun and joy.
The goal of our league (NYSCL) is to provide a safe and productive environment that enables the members to learn and apply the principles of teamwork, discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship. They facilitate the development of strength and character in every person that participates. Participation in the league is open to all, both male and female in the New York area and from all parts of the world. They are sustained by the efforts of volunteers who display an extraordinary amount of commitment and hard work, ensuring that the league is a positive influence in the lives of the membership. They also strive to provide a service to the community by providing a healthy outlet for everyone, opportunities for the community to gather together, and endless hours of games, fun and entertainment.