Softball is a variant of baseball and a popular participant sport, particularly in the United States. It is generally agreed that softball developed from a game called indoor baseball, first played in Chicago in 1887. It became known in the United States by various names, such as kitten ball, mush ball, diamond ball, indoor–outdoor, and playground ball. There were wide variances in playing rules, size and type of playing equipment, and dimensions of the playing field.

Description from:
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Softball.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 5 May 2020, www.britannica.com/sports/softball.
Available resources about Softball:
The Softball Handbook by Susan Craig; Ken Johnson
Call Number: 796.357 C886s
Publication Date: 1985-07-01
Combining years of experience as coaches and players, Susan Craig and Ken Johnson of the University of New Mexico present the most up-to-date analysis of fastpitch softball fundamentals available today. From a detailed progression of the overhand throw, hitting, fielding, pitching, catching, and baserunning to a a six-week practice plan, conditioning exercises, scouting tips, and player evaluation forms, this is a valuable training handbook for both men and women!
Softball Fundamentals by Rick Noren (Other Primary Creator); Human Kinetics Staff
Call Number: 796.357 N834s 2005
Publication Date: 2005-02-03
Take the field and play ball! Softball Fundamentalswill have you pitching, fielding, hitting, and baserunning like an experienced player in no time at all. Learn to execute each of the game's key skills properly through the concise instruction and accompanying photos presented for each technique. More than 48 game-like drills will speed your skill learning and improve your performance. You'll also learn how to apply your newfound skills in game situations and gain an understanding of offensive and defensive tactics to get an edge over your opponents. Softball Fundamentals is the best way to master the basics of the sport as you play. With this book, you'll make the right play from the very first day. See all the titles available in the Sports Fundamentals Series.
Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully by Kathy J. Veroni; Roanna Brazier
Call Number: 796.357 V549c 2006
Publication Date: 2005-12-08
Field a winning fastpitch softball team year after year with the knowledge and insights of a coaching legend! Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully provides the guidance and technical expertise you need in order to build and maintain a competitive team, covering every facet of leading a squad on the field and developing a program off of it. Hall of Fame coach Kathy Veroni, who has won more than 1,250 fastpitch games in her career, and pitching expert Roanna Brazier share their insights and experiences in this authoritative, comprehensive guide to coaching fast pitch softball. From developing a coaching philosophy and planning for the season to teaching the skills and tactics of the game, you will find proven formulas for success within these pages. With practice and conditioning plans, administrative forms, sample scouting charts, tactics for dozens of game situations, and more than 130 drills, Coaching Fastpitch Softball Successfully is the most complete resource available for aspiring and experienced coaches alike. Take advantage of the authors' expertise to gain a winning edge over your competition.