Bhutan Baseball and Softball Association Makes Historic Debut at the WBSC Congress in Thailand
Thailand, October 2025 – The Bhutan Baseball and Softball Association (BBSA) proudly marked a significant milestone in its history as its General Secretary, Mr. Sanjeevan Raj Gurung, attended the 6th World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Congress from October 16th to 18th. This represented the first time ever that Bhutan participated in this global gathering of the sport's governing body.
A Warm Welcome and Strong Support from Asia
6th WBSC Congress
16th - 18th October 2025
Bangkok, Thailand
Member of Baseball for Continental Asia with Mr. Jeffery Koo, President of Baseball Federation of Asia
The journey began with the Baseball Federation of Asia (BFA) Congress on October 17th, where Mr. Gurung was personally welcomed by BFA President, Mr. Jeffery Koo. President Koo commended BBSA's efforts and committed to providing further development support.
Member of Softball for Continental Asia with Mrs. Beng Chow Low, President of Softball Asia
Later that day, during the Softball Asia (SA) Extraordinary Congress, President Madam Beng Chow Loo offered resounding public praise for BBSA. Highlighting the "enormous development of youth" achieved in just three years as a member, she declared Bhutan as "the country to look upon in the next 2-3 years" and promised enhanced support for development programs.
A key theme from both continental bodies was the strong emphasis on promoting Baseball5, a fast-paced and accessible urban version of the sport, particularly among youth.
A Proud Moment on the World Stage
The pinnacle of the congress was on October 18th, when Mr. Gurung attended the full WBSC Congress alongside 170 member nations. In a historic moment for Bhutanese sport, he was presented with the award of Affiliated Membership in the WBSC for BBSA by President Mr. Riccardo Fraccari.
President Fraccari highly praised the continuous development work conducted by BBSA and conveyed his warm regards to His Royal Highness Prince Jigyel Ugyen Wangchuck, President of the Bhutan Olympic Committee, and BBSA President, Mr. Karma Dorji. He assured that WBSC and its continental partners would continue their unwavering support for Bhutan's journey.
Building Bridges for the Future
Beyond the formal meetings, the congress was a fertile ground for networking. Mr. Gurung forged connections with federations from Japan, Philippines, Australia, Thailand, India, and many other countries, sharing BBSA's story and exploring future collaborations.
Promising discussions were also held with equipment partners, including Nagase Kenko Corporation and Pro Star Sports Corporation (makers of the official Baseball5 balls), who extended their hand in supporting BBSA with essential gear.
Key Takeaways: Bhutan's Story is Being Heard
Reflecting on the experience, General Secretary Sanjeevan Raj Gurung shared, "My key takeaway is that federations across Asia and the world are following our story. It was a immense pride to represent BBSA and Bhutan on this biggest stage, to connect with so many leaders, and to share how baseball, softball and baseball5 are growing in the Land of the Thunder Dragon."
This inaugural participation has not only solidified Bhutan's place in the global baseball and softball family but has also opened exciting new pathways for equipment, coaching, and program support, ensuring a bright future for our athletes.
