Friday, July 10, 2026, Noon – 1 p.m.
From youth leagues to the Olympics and professional competition, softball is a predominantly women’s sport that continues to grow in influence. Since its first recorded game in 1887, softball has evolved into a major athletic and cultural force, though the sport did not gain a foothold in Central Florida until the 1920s. Today, the region has become a nationally recognized center for softball.
In this presentation, archivist Katie Marra discusses the history of the sport in Central Florida, highlighting local influences such as the Orlando Rebels, Olympic gold medalist Dot Richardson, and the development of the region’s expansive softball complexes.
About Our Speaker
Katie Marra is the archivist for the Orange County Regional History Center and has more than 15 years of professional experience working in museums, archives, and consulting projects. She earned a B.A. in history from the University of Florida, with a concentration in American history, and an M.A. in historical administration and public history from Florida State University, with a concentration in archives management.
Participate online or in person. Closed caption available online.
History Center Members: Free
General Public: $5
History Center Members with lunch: $12
General Public with lunch: $17
Lunch must be ordered by 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 9.
Call 407-836-8580 with questions.
