As Baseball5 readies for its debut at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, athletes at the second edition of the WBSC Baseball5 World Cup 2024 undertook specific anti-doping education classes on the eve of the tournament, which takes place in the Central Harbourfront Event Space in Hong Kong, China from 7-12 October.
In preparation, the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) and the International Testing Agency (ITA) have launched an anti-doping education programme to ensure players are equipped with the knowledge and tools they need to compete on the global stage.
This education initiative builds on the successful programme conducted earlier this year at the WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup in Colombia. The goal was to emphasise the importance of personal responsibility and respect in competition.
Now, those lessons are being brought to the Baseball5 World Cup, tailored specifically for Baseball5 athletes. New Zealand Olympian Nikki Hamblin is leading the on-site sessions, focusing on making sure athletes feel confident and prepared for the challenges ahead.
“It’s all about empowering athletes with the tools they need to succeed,” Hamblin explained. “We want them to know what to expect, and feel comfortable with the process, so they can focus on their performance.”
The education sessions are practical, hands-on workshops. Athletes are given the opportunity to engage directly with the process, from learning how to manage their responsibilities to understanding the importance of personal accountability. “When athletes can actually touch the testing kits and practice things like opening sealed bottles, it demystifies the process. It helps them feel more in control and makes the experience less daunting," Hamblin said.
The sessions are particularly important for many of the younger athletes, who may be encountering such procedures for the first time. By focusing on practical experience and interactive learning, the sessions aim to reduce any uncertainty and build athlete confidence.
“For some of these athletes, this is their first major international competition, and we want to make sure they’re not overwhelmed,” Hamblin added. “It’s about giving them the right knowledge so they can focus on what they’re here to do - play and compete at their best.”
As Baseball5 rises in visibility and approaches its Olympic debut, the sport is stepping into the global spotlight. With this increased attention comes higher expectations, and these education sessions are designed to ensure that athletes are prepared to meet those challenges. “The higher the profile of the competition, the more is expected from the athletes, and we’re here to make sure they understand their responsibilities,” Hamblin said.
The anti-doping programme at the Baseball5 World Cup is part of a broader strategy by the WBSC to ensure that athletes, coaches, and support staff are fully equipped for international competition. This initiative also reflects the WBSC and ITA’s shared commitment to keeping Baseball5 fair and transparent as it grows into a truly global sport. “We’re working together to make sure that the athletes are prepared, not just physically but mentally, so they can uphold the values of the sport,” said Hamblin.
