Springfield College Hosts Chinese National Softball Team

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College is currently collaborating with the Chinese Olympic Committee (COC) to have 16 players and two coaches of the Liaoning national Chinese softball team training at the college until June 28.

The Chinese softball team’s visit to Springfield College is part of a training partnership between the college and the COC to allow Chinese athletes an opportunity to learn the different methods of athletic training in the U.S. As a result of a strong relationship between the college and the COC, this trip marks the Chinese softball squad’s only visit to the U.S. to train.

“We are very excited that the Chinese softball team chose to spend time practicing at Springfield College,” said Tracey Matthews, dean of the Springfield College School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation. “This is a wonderful collaboration, and we are happy to have them on our campus. This experience has provided our athletic training, strength and conditioning, and coaching staff with exposure to a highly skilled team. We look forward to future collaborations with the Chinese Olympic Committee.”

Members of the Chinese softball team will live on campus while training with Springfield College Head Softball Coach Julie Perrelli and her assistant coaches during on-field sessions. The team will also have the opportunity to utilize Springfield College’s award-winning strength and conditioning facility for off-field workouts.

“As part of our visit to China last summer with Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper, we were able to meet with the Chinese Olympic Committee and invite Chinese athletes to campus to train with our faculty and coaches,” said Springfield College Doggett International Center Director Deb Alm. “It’s an honor to have the COC choose Springfield College as the place to send its athletes to train while in the United States.”

For more than a century, Springfield College presidents, students, alumni, and athletic teams have traveled the globe building relationships, conducting educational and sports programs, and receiving governmental and humanitarian awards. Today, more than 600 Springfield College alumni reside in 65 countries outside the U.S.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, the Springfield College Doggett International Center assists international students and hosts international scholars, coaches, and guests. The college also conducts student missions to economically disadvantaged countries to provide needed human services.