16/08/2025
SINDH SOFTBALL ASSOCIATION JOINS FRIENDLY SOFTBALL MATCH AT U.S. CONSULATE GENERAL KARACHI
Karachi: The Sindh Softball Association (SSA) actively participated in a friendly softball match organized by the U.S. Consulate General in Karachi, aimed at fostering friendship and promoting the sport of softball among youth.
The event brought together a spirited mix of participants, including volunteers from Lincoln Corners in Sindh and Balochistan, SSA members, and staff from the U.S. Consulate. The day began with a warm welcome from U.S. Consul General His Excellency Mr. Scott Urbom, who praised the initiative for building community ties through sports. He expressed enthusiasm about softball’s return as a women’s sport at the 2028 Summer Olympic Games in Los Angeles, and voiced hope to see a team from Pakistan participate in the future.
On this occasion, SSA General Secretary Muhammad Zeeshan Merchant expressed gratitude to the Consul General for hosting the event. He highlighted softball’s growing impact in Pakistan especially in empowering young girls, building their self-confidence, and offering new opportunities. He also paid tribute to the late Mr. Asif Azeem, former President of the Softball Federation of Pakistan, recognizing his lifelong dedication and contributions to the sport.
SSA officials Muhammad Abbas Merchant and Shiraz Asif led an engaging orientation session, explaining softball rules and demonstrating key techniques to the participants. The highlight of the day was a friendly match between SSA players, Consulate staff, and Lincoln Corners volunteers — creating lively moments of fun, learning, and cross-cultural camaraderie.
Consul General Urbom, who personally enjoys playing softball, applauded SSA’s efforts to promote the sport in Pakistan. As a token of appreciation, Zeeshan Merchant presented him with an official softball and a customized Softball Federation of Pakistan T-shirt bearing Mr. Urbom’s name.
The event concluded on a high note, celebrating the power of sports as a platform for cultural exchange, youth engagement, and enduring goodwill between Pakistan and the United States.
