The European Softball community mourns the loss of André Van Overbeek (1949 - 2021), former ESF President and former Vice-President Europe of the International Softball Federation (ISF).

The news of André Van Overbeek's passing left the European Softball community heartbroken. Van Overbeek was elected President of the European Softball Federation (ESF) for two terms from 2009 to 2013 and from 2013 to 2017. In 2009 and 2013, he was elected Vice-President for Europe of the International Softball Federation (ISF).

Softball Europe President Gabriel Waage commented on André Van Overbeek's passing: "Many great people leaving us over this year. I can’t believe, my great friend André, that I will not be able to say to you in person how we are fulfilling your legacy. You built up confidence in the softball community over your ESF Presidency, you always found the best way to help each one, who needed help or advice. Be sure, I do my best for what I promised to you, my friend. Thank you for everything you gave to us, for what you gave to the whole softball community, and for what you gave to me. Rest in Peace."

André Van Overbeek‘s career in baseball and softball started in the sixties as a baseball player in Rotterdam, Netherlands. He coached several softball teams after he retired as a player. André lived for nine years in St. Petersburg, Russia, where he coached in a local softball team. 

In 2005, van Overbeek officially became a Member of the Board of the Royal Dutch Baseball and Softball Association (KNBSB).
In 2009 and 2013, van Overbeek was elected President of the European Softball Federation (ESF), succeeding Mike Jennings, and he was also elected Vice-President for Europe of the International Softball Federation (ISF).

In 2017, after two terms as President of the European Softball Federation, he retired from international softball.