Aubree Munro Watson Episode 188

Softball’s Olympic journey has been anything but simple.

In this episode of When the Cleats Come Off, Ashley sits down with Aubree Munro Watson, a former Florida Gator and member of United States Women's National Softball Team, to unpack the complicated path softball has taken within the Olympic Games.

From her firsthand experience competing in the 2020 Summer Olympics to the recent announcement that softball will return for the 2028 Summer Olympics, Aubree offers an honest and thoughtful perspective on what these decisions mean for the sport’s global future.

Why Softball Wasn’t Played in Paris

Many fans were surprised to see softball absent from the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

Aubree explains the realities behind how Olympic sports are selected and why softball — despite its popularity — was not included in that cycle. The discussion highlights the complex politics and logistical decisions that influence which sports appear on the Olympic stage.

Understanding this context helps fans see why advocacy and visibility remain critical for softball’s long-term Olympic presence.

A Unique Olympic Experience in Tokyo

The Tokyo Olympics were unlike any other Games in history.

Aubree reflects on what it was like competing during the COVID-era Olympics in 2021, where strict protocols, empty stands, and limited interaction created a vastly different environment from what most athletes imagine when they think about the Olympic experience.

Despite those challenges, representing the United States on the world stage remained one of the most meaningful moments of her career.

The Debate Around the 2028 Olympic Venue

While softball’s return in 2028 is exciting news, the decision to host Olympic softball in Oklahoma City instead of Los Angeles has sparked debate.

Aubree shares her perspective on the choice — offering a viewpoint that challenges the assumption that it’s automatically the best decision for the sport. She discusses how venue decisions impact visibility, global perception, and the opportunity to showcase softball to new audiences.

Her perspective adds nuance to a conversation many fans haven’t fully considered.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

Why softball was not included in the Paris Olympics
Understanding how Olympic sport selection works.
What competing in the Tokyo Olympics was really like
A unique athlete experience during the COVID era.
The significance of softball returning in 2028
What the Los Angeles Games mean for the sport’s future.
Why the Oklahoma City venue decision is controversial
A different perspective on where Olympic softball should be played.
How athletes can advocate for the growth of the game
The role players and fans have in shaping softball’s future.

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