🥎 january wrap-up and up-coming

January has been a huge month for Softball WA, with multiple national championships taking place across the country. From strong performances on the road to exciting tournaments held right here at home, our athletes represented WA with pride, determination, and plenty of memorable moments. As we head into February, there’s still plenty to look forward to.

✨ January Wrap-Up

🏆 U14 Girls & Open Women – Victoria

The U14 Girls and Open Women were first to take the field in Victoria, kicking off a busy championship period.

The U14 Girls delivered a competitive tournament, finishing 6th overall with a record of four wins, six losses, and two draws. The team showed resilience throughout the week and were able to match it with strong opposition, producing a performance they can be proud of.

The Open Women, competing in the Gilley’s Shield, finished the tournament in 5th place with three wins and nine losses. While the results didn’t always fall their way, the team displayed grit and commitment against some of the nation’s strongest programs.

A special highlight from the Open Women’s campaign was Lauren Brown, who was named to the All-Tournament Team in Right Field.

🥇 Lauren achieved an incredible double honour this season, earning both Centre Field and Right Field All-Tournament Team selections across the U23 and Open Women’s 2025/26 National Championships.

A huge congratulations to Lauren on an outstanding achievement! 💙

🏟️ U16 Boys & U16 Girls – Mirrabooka Softball Complex, Perth

Following closely after the Victorian championships, the U16 Boys (Arthur Allsopp Shield) and U16 Girls (Esther Deason Shield) took to the diamond at our very own Mirrabooka Softball Complex, proudly competing on home soil.

The U16 Boys finished the tournament in a strong 4th place, recording three wins and seven losses. Despite facing tough competition, the boys fought hard in every game and represented Western Australia with pride throughout the week.

Individual recognition was well deserved, with Jeffrey Haddon named to the All-Tournament Team for Centre Field, while Jack Owens earned selection at Third Base.

The U16 Girls produced an outstanding tournament performance, finishing 2nd overall after dominating much of the competition. Their campaign came to a close in a closely contested semi-final against Queensland, where the girls fought right until the final out.

Their efforts were rewarded with a host of individual honours. Grace Hardy was awarded Best Pitcher, while the All-Tournament Team selections included:

• Grace Hardy – Pitcher

• Taylah Hughes – Catcher

• Ahlia Jones – Third Base

• Hunter Nepia – Centre Field

An exceptional sweep of awards and a fantastic showcase of talent from the entire squad.

🚌 U18 Girls & U18 Boys – Blacktown, NSW

Most recently, the U18 Girls and U18 Boys travelled to Blacktown, New South Wales, to compete in their respective national championships.

The U18 Girls endured a challenging tournament, finishing in 4th place without recording a win. Despite the results, the team showed strong offensive capability, consistently producing runs and hits. Unfortunately, injuries throughout the week impacted their ability to convert performances into wins.

A standout performer was Annalise Daley, who was recognised as the All-Tournament Team Catcher for her impressive efforts behind the plate.

The U18 Boys delivered an exceptional campaign, advancing all the way to the Grand Final. After a thrilling week of softball, the team finished 2nd overall, narrowly falling short in the final game.

Pitcher Jack Etherton capped off a remarkable tournament, being awarded both Best Pitcher in the Individual Awards and selection as the All-Tournament Team Pitcher.

📅 February Upcoming

⚾ U23 Men – Laing Harrow Shield

February begins with the U23 Men departing for their Laing Harrow Shield campaign in Redlands, Queensland. The tournament will run from 3rd to 8th February, and the team will be looking to build on the momentum created by our recent national championship performances.

We wish the U23 Men the very best of luck as they take the field and continue to represent Softball WA with pride.

🎓 Return of the 2026 Academic Year

February also marks the return of the 2026 academic year, with many athletes heading back to school, university, or TAFE.

The Softball WA office would like to wish everyone the best of luck as they return to their studies or prepare for the year ahead. As always, we encourage players to maintain a healthy balance between softball, social life, and school commitments.

📣 Stay Connected

Be sure to keep up to date with the latest opportunities, events, and news by following our Softball WA social media channels.

Thank you to all athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers, families, and supporters who made January such a successful and exciting month. We can’t wait to see what February has in store! 💙🥎