The beginning of the “sport of diamonds” in Ireland dates back to 1989, when the Federation of Baseball and Softball Ireland (IBFS) was created. In 1996 when the Irish team made its international debut in the European Baseball Championship in Hull, England.

Through the years Irish baseball had great support from the United States as there have been various exchanges in both tournaments and instructors. But the greatest supporter of Irish baseball was an Irish-American named Peter O’Malley, former owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who after collaborating in the construction of several stadiums around the world, promised to build one in Ireland. Opened in 1998 in Condalkin, West Dublin, and called “Field of Dreams” the stadium has 2 stages (adult and minor Baseball). It is here that the most important baseball activities in the country take place.

The Irish League Baseball has 2 categories, the principal is “A” with 6 teams (Spartans Dublin, Dublin Black Sox, Dublin Hurricanes, Greystones Mariners , Belfast North Star Warriors and Munster). There are 7 teams in the B category. The two leagues are played from April to September, both have regular round play-off and final.

The League was inaugurated in 1997. The Dublin Spartans are the current champions, having won the league 8 times.

If you want more information about the Irish and their league baseball , or are interested in playing baseball or learning then make sure to visit: www.baseballireland.com

By Leopoldo CARRASQUERO