The joint initiative of EBCA and ESCA marks a strategic collaboration that unites the expertise and passion of baseball and softball coaching communities across Europe.
WBSC Europe, the continental governing body for Baseball and Softball, through its Development Commission, along with the long-standing European Softball Coaches Association (ESCA) and the European Baseball Coaches Association (EBCA) is thrilled to unveil a groundbreaking collaborative initiative aimed at advancing coach education across Europe.
Under the banner of the European Baseball and Softball Coaches Association (EBSCA), we are poised to amplify our collective efforts, bolstering existing programs while charting a course for innovative new ventures in both sports.
Established in 2003 as the premier transnational network for Baseball Coaches, EBCA recognized the need for a dedicated platform in Europe where coaches could convene, exchange ideas, and refine their skills. With the support of the International Sports Group, a US-based organization with nearly two decades of experience in baseball instruction on the European continent, the inaugural EBCA Convention took place in Germany in 2004.
Since its inception, the EBCA Convention has traversed Europe, making notable stops in Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Czech Republic, Portugal, Hungary, and France. While the Convention serves as a flagship event, EBCA remains committed to providing ongoing support and resources to European coaches, constantly striving to enhance the breadth and quality of services offered to its members.
Find more about EBCA on its website.
In parallel, ESCA, the European Softball Coaches Association, plays an integral role in shaping the future of softball coaching in Europe.
Within the framework of EBSCA, mirroring WBSC Europe's comprehensive approach encompassing both disciplines, coaches from both Baseball and Softball will have unparalleled opportunities to collaborate, learn, and network within a dynamic and highly visible platform.
Petra Čizmić Pokrajac, Chair of the Development Commission for WBSC Europe, expressed
her joy at the start of this cooperation, stating, "It is a great news for European coaches. The network opportunities will increase, and baseball and softball, being one family, will flourish together."
Acting EBCA president Bertrand Rué stated that "The EBCA is excited to cooperate with WBSC Europe in extending the reach of our network as we seek to continue to improve the level of coaching in all parts of Europe".
This collaborative endeavor marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to advancing the coaching profession and elevating the standards of baseball and softball across Europe. This partnership will strengthen the efforts to empower coaches, foster innovation, and drive excellence in our beloved sports.
Stay tuned for more updates and initiatives.
Cover photo by Lorena Puškarić
