Press Release USA Baseball
USA BASEBALL STATEMENT ON IOC RECOMMENDATION OF SPORTS TO BE ADDED TO THE 2016 OLYMPIC PROGRAM
(DURHAM, N.C.) – USA Baseball Executive Director/CEO Paul Seiler issued the following statement after the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) announcement Thursday in Berlin that golf and rugby sevens would be put forth for a vote in October in Copenhagen for addition to the Olympic Program in 2016:
“As disappointing as this decision by the IOC is, it is interesting to note the significant global growth our sport has experienced since we first heard of this possible outcome (from Singapore in 2005). International participation at all levels of baseball continues to grow, and the success of the World Baseball Classic is undeniable proof that ours is a sport with worldwide appeal. We are looking forward to contributing to, and being a part of that growth for years to come.”
Baseball, karate, roller sports, softball, and squash were also up for recommendation.
About USA Baseball
USA Baseball is the National Governing Body of amateur baseball in the United States and is a member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC). The organization selects and trains the World Baseball Classic Team (and all other USA Baseball Professional Teams); the USA Baseball National Team (Collegiate); the USA Baseball 18U, 16U and 14U National Teams; and the USA Baseball Women’s National Team, all of which participate in various international competitions each year. USA Baseball also presents the Golden Spikes Award annually to top player in college baseball. For more information, please visit www.usabaseball.com and www.goldenspikesaward.com.
