Local Women's Softball

Like baseball to youth and the Latino community, softball represents an opportunity for young Latina athletes to overcome traditional barriers against women in sports; The Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls are one such softball team who have represented Latinas in softball in the Garden State.

Puerto Rican and American flags and a banner stating "Borinquen Softball League Fundada en Jersey City, N.J. 1968-1997"

The Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls were a member of the Borinquen Softball League of Jersey City. Much like the Roberto Clemente Little League, it provided the resources and opportunities necessary for Latinas in the community to get involved in the sport.

Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls meet coach Frank Howard.jpg

Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls meet Mets coach Frank Howard

Pictured are team members of the Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls meeting New York Mets coach and manager, and former pro-athlete Frank Howard. Professional teams like the Mets play a large role in inspiring young and aspiring athletes to pursue sports, as those in the NJ/NYC Metro area often come from Latino and underprivileged backgrounds.

Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls face off against other NJ Softball teams in Parsippany

The Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls face off against multiple other NJ women’s softball teams, such as the Budweiser Belles and Linden Majors, in a tournament. Hosted in collaboration with the North Ward Center Inc. and sponsored by Bud Lite, it highlights the support Latinas in softball have received from their local community. Their headline status demonstrates the impact Latinas have had on shaping local New Jersey softball.

Pitcher (left) and Catcher (middle) for the Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls, and Batter (right) for the Playergirls(1).jpg

Batter for the Playergirls

The Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls were only one of the many softball teams with Latina players in local women’s softball history. Pictured is a batter for another Latina team.

Pitcher (left) and Catcher (middle) for the Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls, and Batter (right) for the Playergirls(2) (1).jpg

Pitcher for the Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls

Pitcher (left) and Catcher (middle) for the Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls, and Batter (right) for the Playergirls.jpg

Pitcher for the Puerto Rico Jersey City Dolls

Woman sliding into first base while Jersey City Dolls baseman attempts a tag