Blind Baseball at Galloways has been one of the biggest highlights of our Be Healthy, Get Active project, funded by Sport England and The National Lottery.

Thanks to its popularity, we’ve continued the sessions and are proud to now have our own team, the Galloways Gladiators.

So, what is Blind Baseball?

It’s a fully accessible version of the game, designed for people who are blind or partially sighted. All players wear blackout eyeshades to ensure fairness. The ball has bells inside, so you can hear it as it moves, and there’s no pitcher. The batter either hits it from their hand or tosses it in the air and swings.

Once the ball is in play, blind players run to bases guided by sound, not by being led. Sighted volunteers stand at second and third base, clapping wooden paddles to help runners locate their direction. Fielders listen for the ball, then throw it towards a sighted catcher who calls out their location.

It’s an exciting, inclusive team sport that’s all about confidence, teamwork, and fun. And although it’s a game for everyone, there are also opportunities to go further. The Galloways Gladiators now compete in friendly matches and domestic competitions against other VI teams, including Manchester, Liverpool, Hartlepool, and more. There’s even a pathway into the Great Britain setup.

We’re on the lookout for new players, no experience needed, and sighted volunteers to help with clapping at bases, catching, and supporting the team.

Whether you want to get active, try something new, or take your skills further, this is a fantastic opportunity. The Be Healthy, Get Active project may have come to an end, but its impact lives on, and now’s the perfect time to get involved.