The document discusses the history of baseball and softball in the Olympics. It notes that softball was added to the Olympics in 1996 and baseball in 1992. However, in 2005 the IOC voted to remove softball and baseball as Olympic sports beginning in 2012, citing reasons such as the lack of availability of Major League Baseball players and the dominance of the U.S. softball team. The removal faced criticism from softball advocates who argued that softball is a growing sport and the Olympics provide the biggest stage for the sport.

1. America’s past time voted out of the Olympic games

2. Softball was invented in 1887 By George Hancock On Thanksgiving Day In Chicago

3. Softball 9 players on the field Pitchers 43ft (college/Olympic) Bases 60 ft apart 7 innings

4. Baseball was invented in 1845 By Alexander Cartwright Similar to English game “Rounders” In New York

5. Baseball 9 players on the field Pitchers throw from 60 ft 6 inches Bases are 90ft apart 9 innings

6. America’s Sports Baseball is known as America’s Favorite Past Time Softball is known as America’s Game

7. Olympic Baseball First appeared in 1904 as an unofficial debut Became an official sport in 1992

8. Olympic Softball First appeared in 1996 U.S.A won gold all but once

9. July 8, 2005 IOC dropped softball and baseball First sports to be dropped since 1936

10. Reasons?!?! Ant-Americanism Major League Baseball not freeing up players Team USA (softball) too dominate

12. Justification to keep Team Cuba has won gold in baseball 3 times Team USA upset by Japan Softball is a growing sport

13. Why to keep softball Ranked 14 out 28 sports 127 countries have softball leagues There is no Major League softball The Olympics are the “BIG LEAGUE”

14. Cont. USA Softball had tried expand the game, sending equipment to developing countries.

15. Quotes “ We're not like basketball or other sports that have other professional opportunities. We thrive on our place in the Olympics.” Lisa Fernandez

16. The End? 2008 final game 5 distinguished players left cleats on the field to signify retiring.

17. Team U.S.A Veterans

18. HOPE TEAM U.S.A and TEAM Japan 2008