Softball Australia is deeply saddened by news of the passing of Life Member Bob Harrow in Canberra this morning.

Bob was twice awarded Softball Australia Coach of the Year (2004 and 2009) and became a Softball Australia Life Member in 2010, before being inducted into the International Softball Hall of Fame in 2011.

A true pioneer of softball in Australia, Bob dedicated twenty years of service to Softball, and had an enormous impact on our elite men’s and women’s programs. Bob led the Australian Men’s team as Head Coach from 2000-2018 and took them to their first World Championship in 2009, a defining moment in Softball Australia’s history.

Bob will also be remembered for his commitment to improve and innovate the game in Australia. His vision for a national competition saw the introduction of the National Fastpitch Softball League from 1989-1996, and the competition became a breeding ground for elite men’s and women’s talent, with many athletes going on to represent Australia.

Aussie Steelers Team Manager and long-time friend Michael Titheradge described Bob’s impact on the sport in Australia, saying, “The news of Bob’s passing marks a sad day for softball, as we lose one of our true pioneers. Bob helped shaped Men’s Softball in Australia and formed the foundation of the Aussie Steelers brand, helping to build and deliver a World Championship winning program.

“l can’t begin to measure the impact Bob has had on me personally, and I will be forever grateful to have shared in his journey. RIP Bobby.”

Former Softball Australia President Darryl Clout also reflected on Bob’s legacy, adding, “I enjoyed many memorable moments with Bob on our journey to a World Championship in 2009, when years of planning came together for an unforgettable and historic victory for our beloved Steelers.

“Those who saw him coach or were part of his teams knew he was different to many other coaches. His vision, singular focus, passion, and love for his players lead to success that many had only dreamt about. He was the driving force in providing opportunities for our young men and women to reach their goals, and his influence should never be underestimated.”

The Softball Australia family offers its deepest condolences to Sue, Laing, Allison, Mike, Nicole, the extended Harrow family, and Bob’s many friends here in Australia and around the world. The Harrow name is globally recognised in softball, and we extend our sympathies to the softball community in Canada where Bob similarly had an enormous impact.

Vale Bob Harrow.

Softball Australia Life Member Bob Harrow