The Emirates Softball League (ESL) is a fastest-growing amateur sports league in the United Arab Emirates, drawing in a community of players from all cultures.

Established in 2017 by co-founders Robert “Bobby” Fiala and Thomas Fiala Jr., the league has become a centre point for softball enthusiasts, offering a platform for both competition and friendship. With over 300 active players participating across various divisions, the ESL is focussed on building connections in a expat-driven community.

Yalla Sports recently interviewed both founders, as they reflected on the journey of the ESL, its challenges during the pandemic, and their vision for the future of softball in the UAE.

“Back in 2017, we were simply a group of around 10 to 11 guys training for a tournament,” says Thomas. They gathered in Arabian Ranches for some pickup games, but the word spread quickly. “The next week, we had 20 people, then 30, and by the fourth week, we had nearly 50 players showing up.” The huge growth soon became too much for the original location, which led them on a quest for a more permanent home.

Luckily, the Dubai Little League came to the rescue. “We formed a partnership with them to use their facilities,” Bobby shares. With the use of the proper baseball fields at Dubai Little League, the ESL flourished, going from five teams in their inaugural season to over 20 teams today, spanning across five leagues. “Now we play two nights a week, with over 300 players participating,” says Thomas, underscoring how far the league has come.

Navigating Challenges During the Pandemic

Like many sports leagues worldwide, ESL faced significant challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. For several months, all activities were shut down, but the Fiala brothers used that time to maintain engagement with their community. “We created some fun video content where players would throw a virtual ball from one to another across different parts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi,” explains Bobby, highlighting their efforts to keep spirits up during the lockdown.

When the UAE began reopening, the league was one of the first to resume play. Strict safety protocols were put in place, with temperature checks, sanitization, and limited numbers in the dugouts. Thomas, who works in safety at the airport, adapted those safety regulations for the softball league. “We implemented all the necessary precautions to get back on the field while ensuring everyone’s safety,” he says.

Far from diminishing the league, the pandemic made players appreciate the community aspect of the sport even more. “Once things reopened, the enthusiasm to get back on the field was palpable,” Bobby recalls. “People missed the connection, the sense of community that comes with team sports.”

One of the most significant hurdles to growing softball in the UAE is the lack of facilities. “There are only five baseball fields in the entire country, and four of them are for Little League,” Bobby explains. To accommodate the growing number of teams, they need more fields, but acquiring land and funding remains a challenge.

Despite the obstacles, the Fialas are optimistic about the future. They are in talks with UAE-based entities to create a UAE Baseball and Softball Federation. “It’s a passion project for us,” says Bobby, “and while we may not be the ones running it, we want to lay the groundwork for a long-term development program that can get UAE nationals involved in the sport.”

Expanding Opportunities for All

One of the most exciting developments in the league has been the introduction of the women’s division. “Our women’s league has grown steadily,” says Thomas. “This will be our second full year, with women playing every Monday night.” The all-women league has created a safe and supportive environment, especially for newcomers who might feel intimidated playing alongside more experienced male players.

The Fialas are also proud of the inclusivity of the ESL, emphasising that the league is open to all skill levels. “We’ve had players who’ve never picked up a bat before,” says Bobby. The league hosts three divisions, catering to all levels of competitiveness. “There’s a place for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned player or just looking to learn the game.”

In addition to fostering a love for the sport, the ESL has become a hub for networking. “We have players from all walks of life—teachers, CEOs, nannies—and the league has become a place where people can connect both on and off the field,” says Bobby. The friendships formed through the ESL extend beyond the diamond, with players celebrating holidays together, attending weddings, and supporting each other in their professional lives.

The ESL’s influence reaches beyond the UAE, with the league regularly participating in international tournaments across Europe and the GCC. “We’ve played in Barcelona, Italy, and Germany,” says Thomas, “and we’ve also hosted teams from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.” These international tournaments not only give players the chance to test their skills but also strengthen the bonds within the global softball community.

Closer to home, the league is heavily involved in charity work, particularly within the Filipino community. “We often raise funds for players who have family members in need back home,” says Bobby, who sees this as an essential part of building a strong community.

What’s Next for the ESL?

Looking ahead, the Fialas have big dreams for the Emirates Softball League. “It would be amazing to have our own facility one day,” says Thomas, a dream that would allow the league to expand even further. In the meantime, they continue to focus on growing the league and promoting the sport in the UAE.

For anyone hesitant to join, Bobby offers simple advice: “Just come out. We’ve had people who didn’t know which hand to put the glove on when they started, but now they’re regulars.” The ESL is more than just a league; it’s a community, and for many, it has become like family.

With registrations for the upcoming season starting on September 9, the Emirates Softball League is poised to continue its impressive growth, offering a welcoming space for both seasoned athletes and those new to the game.