News

feature story by Eliza Wood. For more of Eliza’s features in the lead-up to the Australian Women’s Championships, visit www.baseball.com.au/women.

There’s something captivating in sport about watching a dark horse emerge from the shadows and proving to be a force that no-one saw coming.

In the world of women’s baseball, that force is South Australia.

10 years ago, South Australia barely had a women’s state team. Now, they’ve built themselves into medal contending competitors every time they take the field.

From humble beginnings to present day gold medal success, Julie Wadham, a leading lady of women’s baseball in South Australia has been there to witness it all.

But this journey didn’t just start from the beginning of the women’s league.

“A lot of people who have been involved in women’s baseball in Adelaide in the last 10 years think that the women have only been playing baseball here since the start of the current women’s baseball league in 2014-15,” says Wadham.

“Like many things that appear to come from nowhere, there were many years of effort before that,” she adds.

An Adelaide local who began playing baseball as a young teenager, Wadham boasts a decorated career as both a player and coach.

A widely respected figure amongst the entire baseball community, Wadham’s involvement in the history of the game and continued presence is undeniable.

“Her knowledge and experience in baseball is so influential and has significantly broadened my experience,” SA Junior Coach of the Year, and U16 Girls Gold Medal manager, Dion Thiele expresses.

“If you add her enthusiasm, determination and passion Julie has for the success of the girls and women’s baseball in South Australia, we are very fortunate to have Julie,” he says.

Wadham’s career dates back to 2004, as a member of the first ever South Australian women’s national team.

An eye-opening experience, the team knew they had work to-do if they wanted to compete with the best Australia had to offer.

“The first few years at nationals we didn’t win many games, but it gave us the chance to see what we could aim for,” says Wadham.

However, lack of numbers and support was proving to be a problem for any hope of improving consistency and performance on the national stage.

In 2013, a concerted effort by Baseball SA along with key players and coaches, saw the launching of the women’s league for the 2014-15 season.

The competition originally was just four teams, named after different colours, which played more socially at West Beach on a Friday night. There was no club involvement, just a group of women playing in organised competition.

But, it was the founding pathway of success for Team SA.

Four teams in 2014-15, became six teams in 2015-16, to now 25 plus teams, competing across three divisions across 13 different clubs across the metropolitan area.

South Australia has fielded a team at the Australian Women’s Championships every year now since 2014.

In 2019, they had their first taste of glory.

Walking away as bronze medallists after defeating NSW in a landslide 13-1 victory.

Repeating the feat again in 2023, taking down Queensland 12-4. It felt different that time, with a squad made up entirely of South Australians from the local development system.

Having competed in eight national championships herself, it’s no surprise that 2023 saw Wadham move into an assistant coaching role for the U/16 girls’ team, at their first Australian Youth Women’s Championship appearance.

Who better to have as your assistant coach than one of the inaugural SA representatives herself?

With female sport participation in general on the rise in recent years, baseball has reaped the rewards of that growth.

“Baseball SA have really been supporting that growth at both the top end of our game and locally” says Wadham.

The improvement of the Adelaide Seahorses (13-16 years) at the Barclay Cup is a testament to this.

From winning two games in the Cup’s inception in 2022, to Silver medallists in 2023 to an undefeated championship run in 2024.

The impact of instilling stability and support throughout their community leagues, with countless figures championing women’s baseball is instrumental.

It was only a matter of time before the junior talent emerging in South Australia felt the thrill of victory on the elite stage at nationals.

Reprising her assistant coaching role in 2024, alongside Elly Tucker and head coach Dion Thiele, history was made as their youth women’s national team were crowned champions.

In a dominating 14-1 performance over the Queensland Maroons, the gold medal was finally theirs!

Alice Brown was also awarded tournament MVP and was recipient of the Golden Arm, rounding out their outstanding tournament.

“After so many years of playing and coaching here in SA, being part of the gold medal win at the AYWC last year was an amazing feeling,” says Wadham.

Thiele echoed Wadham’s reaction.

“We finished fourth in 2023,” he says. “To go from there to winning gold was so rewarding… a significant achievement and reward from the hard work put in by the players and the coaches.”

However, this result represents so much more than just winning gold.

Above: Member’s of South Australia’s U16 team celebrate with senior team members and coaches after clinching a spot in the 2024 AYWC Gold Medal Game.

It’s a glimpse into what the future holds for baseball in South Australia.

“[It] was different for me because it recognises not just the one year’s achievement, but how exciting the future is for women’s baseball here,” expresses Wadham.

“Having the U/16s coming up so strong, indicates a bright future for the women’s team and program… it’s exciting to think of SA’s women’s team 5 years from now,” she adds.

With a line-up of extreme talent and depth across both South Australian teams, they are certainly ready to showcase their skills as they step up to the plate and look to solidify their place further into the history books this April.

Only time will tell what the next 10 years has in store for women’s baseball in South Australia, but if the past is anything to go by, the future is destined to shine with success.

PREVIEW: South Australia’s official AWC and AYWC preview ahead of the Australian Women’s Championships. 

MORE BY ELIZA WOOD

---

• Caitlin Eynon: The world-class Australian baseball talent chasing greatness and inspiring the next generation
• Team-first, dream-driven: Molly Paddison is focused and raising the bar
• A Newbie’s Guide to Women’s Baseball: Six Takeaways from a chat with Amy McCann

HUB: The 2025 Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships.

Victoria were the team to beat at the 2024 Australian Women’s Championship. A humble, hungry and talented squad rolled through the tournament undefeated to claim gold medal.

Now, they’re tasked with defending a title with some new faces on the squad.

Welcome to the preview of Victoria for the upcoming Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships in Melbourne from April 13-19.

For links to more stories, podcasts, schedule and tournament information, visit our tournament hub at www.baseball.com.au/women.

Make sure you download Baseball+ for broadcasted games.

WOMEN’S CHAMPIONSHIP: Can Victoria overcome key losses and go back-to-back?

---

2024 Result: Gold

They may only have one gold medal since COVID, but Victoria has very much been the team to beat in this era of women’s baseball.

In fact, they’ve been incredibly hard to beat.

In 2022, they went unbeaten in the minor rounds only to lose to New South Wales in a Gold Medal game. In 2023, it was the same again. They went unbeaten in the minor rounds again but fell to Western Australia in the Championship decider.

In 2024? You guessed it. Unbeaten in pool play. Unbeaten in finals. They won gold, but never played the championship. A scheduled tilt with New South Wales was washed out because of heavy rain.

Make no mistake, Victoria were the best team in the tournament. Last year Victoria went 7-0 and outscored opponents by a staggering 78-18.

Allie Bebbere won the Golden Arm. Abbey Kelly won the Golden Glove. Lili Cavanagh won the MVP.

But, Lili Cavanagh is not returning due to injury. Nor is pitching stalwart Jess Johnson, the ever athletic Kira Kumamoto, and third base star Jamie Bastian.

Still, manager Samantha Hamilton has been ramping up the intensity in training with a hungry squad filled with experience and youthful energy.

“Preparation for this tournament has been intense, especially with the added pressure of backing up our success. After winning silver in 2022 and 2023, then being crowned champions last year, there’s a high standard to maintain,” she says.

“Training has focused on refining our game strategies, building team cohesion, and ensuring players are physically and mentally ready to perform under pressure. The goal is to embrace the challenge, trust our preparation, and give ourselves the best chance to defend our title.”

They’ll need some of the newcomers to perform if they wish to repeat.

The Victorian ‘rookies’ are: Narumi Kametami, Eden Neave & Kendra Rutgers. Mackenzie Prentice-Evans and Paula Doherty debut for Victoria, but played AWC for other states in 2024.

They have big shoes to fill.

Still, although young, there are 11 national champions on the roster.

“They might be new to the team, but they’ve been around this level,” says Allie Bebbere on the Girls are Players Too Podcast. “They are players we see every five weeks. We know how they play. We get to be friends with them in a small community. So it might be the first time we are pulling a Victoria uniform with them but we’ve played with them enough.”

 

On the pitching side of things, Allie Bebbere will likely assume the role as the ace. The Emerald star allowed one run in 9.2 innings last year. She was recognised as the best pitcher in the tournament.

Saeko Suzuki and Narumi Kametami could pitch big innings as well and also bring a Japanese approach to the game.

The youngsters will have to step up on the hill for this team to have success. Filling the key innings of Cavanagh and Johnson is tricky. But Kendra Rutgers brings plenty of raw ability up from the Under 16s and MacKenzie Prentice-Evans brings a year’s experience on Queensland White.

Then comes Paula Doherty. The Far North Queensland product is now living in Victoria. She was the breakout star at The Australian Women’s Championship.

“I’ve got a feeling about her,” says Bebberre (below). “This has potential to be a great tournament for her.

With the bat, they’ll be anchored by experienced hands of the likes of Saeko Suzuki and Abbey Kelley.

Bel Cannington will bring experience too. Behind Claire O’Sullivan, she’s the second most capped player at nationals.

Some rising stars include the two Rubys – Dale and Benne.

“Ruby Dale just came off an amazing club ball season and I think that momentum will carry onto nationals,” says Ruby Benne.

The key to Victoria’s success will likely be an all hands approach. Can a young, athletic and energetic club carry Victoria to a back-to-back nationals title?

“I think whether this is your 12th national, or it’s your first, it’s the same expectation for everyone. For those girls that are coming through, we all hold each other to a certain standard. One of our bigger things is to be a big teammate. That’s a big factor for all of us. No matter which national it is, living and breathing it as a team, that’s something Victoria has been doing a lot as a team recently and that will make a big difference,” says Cannington.

Sounds like a winning attitude.

A sentiment Hamilton echoes.

“Our biggest strength is the balance between youthful energy and experienced leadership. This is one of the youngest teams we’ve ever had, but that fresh enthusiasm is complemented by key veteran players who will lead from the front. The younger athletes bring intensity, fearlessness, and a hunger to prove themselves, while our experienced players provide composure, guidance, and a deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at this level. That combination creates a dynamic team culture where everyone is pushing each other to be better, and we’re confident it will serve us well throughout the tournament,” she says.

YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP: Tight-knit Victorian squad looks to make name for self on national stage

---

2024 Result: Fifth

There are eight new players and seven who return from last year’s teams.

Lots of new players, and lots of new energy.

New players: Hannah Wilson-Powell, Paige Anders, Ayla McCallum, Vivien Turner, Tabitha Pitt, Paiquin Robertson, Emily Mills, Lucy Gale

Return players: Charlotte Jansen, Isy Zurawel, Alyssa Jamieson, Andie Torcasio, Maddy Haynes, Ally Egan, Molly Lewis.

Head coach Richard Elton says team culture has been a big focus in the lead up to the tournament.

“We have focused on setting a culture where the girls will take ownership of their performances,” he says. “Some of the principles we’ve talked about [include] play hard, but be respectful, being a good teammate, playing with confidence but remaining humble and being accountable to each other [among others]. I can’t wait to see the girls own this on the field!”

With the bat, Charlotte Jansen could be poised for a big week. She hit .455 in 2024.

“I have really worked hard on improving my strength and my swing,” says Jansen, who led Victoria in RBI (6) last year.

Allysa Jamieson pitched three innings last year and had four strikeouts.

“I would say my confidence on the field has improved [over the last 12 months],” she said in a pre-game media survey.

One name seemed to pop up a lot amongst Victorian teammates as a player to watch: Ally Egan.

“She has developed into an even better player than last year,” says Andie Torcasio. “She’s very athletic, has a strong arm, she has a great bat as well as being an awesome teammate for Victoria to have.”

Torcasio looks strong herself. She had a couple doubles in 2024.

Keep an eye on Emily Mills. She was the spark plug in an epic walk-off hit for the Belles at the Little League Girls nationals in 2024.

Above all else, the team unity appears to be a big X factor for this Victorian bunch.

“Our team is an incredibly close knit, and have been from the first warmup of our first training,” says Richard Elton. ” A lot of these players are in there second year together, and have been through the challenges of AYWC together. Those that weren’t in the team last year have established themselves in the group. Their ability to support each other through the tournament will show up. Our depth is strong, and while we may not have the recognised star power of a couple of other teams to start the tournament, by the end of the tournament, you’ll remember our girls names.”

Further, the passion of the group and community has Elton itching for the tournament to start.

He says it may not get the attention of other sports, or even men’s baseball, but women’s baseball has the most dedicated, passionate sporting community he has ever come across.

“The community has players from every age group, economic background and geographical region in the state. But where baseball is concerned regardless of skill level, it is a passion,” he says. “We have two players on the team whose families drive them 4 hours EACH WAY three times per week to support their daughter’s passion for the game. Their commitment to me epitomises women’s baseball. The players have to work unreasonably hard to get the recognition they deserve.”

“So they do. Because it not about the recognition, it’s about the passion for the game.”

MORE PREVIEWS

---

 

Two years removed from a Women’s Championship gold medal, Western Australia has undergone a bit of a transformation.

With a surge in youth baseball, many are wondering if the time is now (again) for WA.

It’s a state which features a strong women’s competition and a newly formed women’s elite series, which has had a flow on effect to both the senior and youth team. Does Western Australia have the horses to go deep and make another stab at a medal?

Welcome to the preview of Western Australia for the upcoming Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships in Melbourne from April 13-19.

For links to more stories, podcasts, schedule and tournament information, visit our tournament hub at www.baseball.com.au/women.

Make sure you download Baseball+ for broadcasted games.

AWC PREVIEW: Can Western Australia’s returning core continue to grow into medal contention?

---

2024 Result: Fifth

Two members of the Emeralds, a few Showcase players, and a strong contingent of returning players highlight this Western Australia senior side.

While the team is notably young, they are a year older than last year and that has to count for something.

A core of returners in Chloe Scott, Meaghan Haggart, Ava Tyson, Makayla George, Brian Burke, Jessica Knight, Madison Lines, Chloe Atkinson, Charlotte Yates, Caitlin Eynon & Peyton Newman represent 11 players who come back to build on last year.

21-year-old Caitlin Eynon headlines the lot.

She already boasts an impressive resume which includes a World Cup appearance for the Emeralds, three Showcase teams with the Adelaide Giants, training time in Japan and an AWC gold.

The gun shortstop and pitcher possesses a mid-70s fastball and is considered one of the best women’s players in the world. She plays men’s reserve state league in WA, where she had a .380 on-base-percentage this season.

“She is a Top 3 short stop in the world right now,” says Emeralds head coach Jason Pospishil. “Her combination of arm strength, foot speed and bat to ball skills puts her in the upper echelon of world class players.”

Above: Caitlin Eynon. Read a feature by Eliza Wood on her here.

Eynon is joined by Peyton Newman, Chloe Atkinson, Makayla George, Madison Lines and Briah Burke as the only remaining gold medal winners on the Western Australia state team.

Atkinson hit a grand slam in the 2023 championship run and backed it up by leading the team with a .529 average in 2024.

Newman (below) played rock solid first base last year.

Pitching depth will be the question Western Australia needs an answer too. They seem to have some pieces. Caitlin Eynon is among the hardest throwing in the world and Meaghan Haggart is a national champion & Emerald with wicked off-speed.

But they can’t do it on their own.

Enter the youth movement.

Ava Tyson had a 2.45 ERA across 11.0 innings last year in her first senior tournament and earned a spot in the Australian Women’s Showcase.

Madison Lines is turning into a bit of a local star, too.

“She has come a long way with her pitching and has worked hard on her off speed pitches and I’m keen to see how she will develop throughout this competition,” says teammate Isabella Clarke. “Also the talented Caitlin Eynon and Meaghan Haggart has showed a lot of leadership in the team and will preform well.”

Clarke is getting some attention herself, being notched as a breakout player by multiple teammates. She also started key games for Kalamunda in the Women’s Elite Series.

“Isabella played in the junior state WA team multiple times now but making her debut in the open women’s,” says Chloe Scott. “She is always working and putting in her all at training I really can’t wait to see her play this tournament.”

Head to www.baseball.com.au/women for tournament information, stories and more state team previews.

Western Australia hope to start the week better this year. They dropped their first four games of the tournament in 2024, getting outscored 46-12 in the process.

But the team steadied as the week went on, winning their final four games against Queensland White and South Australia by a 54-15 margin in the consolation games.

They have established elite players in the likes of Eynon, Haggart and Atkinson. Can a returning core keep developing? Will new faces make an impact? We’ll find out this week.

Pool play schedule:
– Sunday 13 April, 11:45AM vs NSW
– Sunday 13 April, 2:30PM vs QLD White
– Monday 14 April, 5:15PM vs Victoria
– Tuesday 15 April, 2:30PM vs QLD Maroon
– Wednesday 16 April, 2:30PM vs SA

AYWC PREVIEW: Youth movement looks to build on bronze medal from 2024

---

2024 Result: Bronze Medal

Fresh off a bronze at the 2024 youth women’s event, head coach Gus Golding likes the blend of players he has on the squad – seven returning players and eight new members.

“The mix of experience and new talent creates opportunity,” says Golding. “Everyone has the chance to step up and contribute. I think this will allow the team to grow, improve, and adapt throughout the tournament.”

He says there is a nice culture building – one that should continue to grow as the tournament progresses.

“The culture has been positive, supportive, and energetic. When we started, the girls all came from different clubs and circles, so it took a bit of time to get the team dynamic humming. But now, there’s a real sense of camaraderie, with everyone encouraging each other as we learn new skills and plays. The girls are focused, yet they’ve found a way to keep things fun and lighthearted during training, which creates a great atmosphere for them,” he says.

Among the return players is 15-year-old Shenaye Lett (Below). She won the Golden Bat Award at the 2024 tournament by hitting .529 with six doubles and eight RBI.

At 14, she was the youngest player at the 2024 Australian Women’s Showcase while playing for the Adelaide Giants.

Jemma Golding also returns after hitting .278 and pitching 6.1 innings, the second most on the team.

“Jemma brings so much to the team both on and off the field,” says Lett. “Her level of skill and knowledge for baseball is unbelievable for a 14-year-old, her ability to play any position and run the bases all while having a strong consistent batting ability is something so valuable to the team. Off the field she is such a strong character and never fails to make the team laugh.”

High praise.

Other returners include Lily Duckworth (below), Emma Rendell, Madison White, Mylie Watt and Sophie Dowsett.

Madison White hit .462 last tournament and just put up some big numbers in the Women’s Division I league. She starred with multiple multi-hit games in the Women’s Elite Series.

Gus Golding says the Elite Series is already raising the standard of Western Australia baseball.

“It provided an avenue for the girls to play in a more competitive enviroment amongst some of the established stars of women’s baseball in our state,” he says. “The opportunity for the up and coming talent to show they could impact at that level was outstanding.”

The eight new players are ready to prove their metal, too.

Multiple members are signalling Millar Butler as one to watch.

“It’s because of her crazy good batting performance and accurate throws,” says return player Emma Rendell. “She hasn’t pitched for a while but I reckon she will come in clutch and win the game for us.”

Golding says all the new players have the ability to provide a breakout moment in their first women’s national championship.

“Our greatest strength is our evenness and adaptability. We have a mix of experienced players and new talent, who are all adaptable and multi-skilled. This versatility gives us options, which should serve us well in the tournament. Couple that with our desire to compete, and we’re ready for whatever comes our way,” he says.

Pool play schedule:
– Tuesday 15 April, 2:30PM AEST vs VIC
– Wednesday 16 April, 11:15AM AEST vs NSW
– Thursday 17 April, 11:15AM vs SA
– Thursday 17 April, 2:30PM vs QLD

——–

Follow baseball.com.au on social media for tournament updates and make sure you visit ‘The Hub’ at www.baseball.com.au/women.

MORE PREVIEWS

---

 

The youth movement in South Australia is here.

Exactly ten years on since the revival of its women’s competition, it’s the new generation of players turning heads.

South Australia’s Under 16 squad enters the tournament as defending champions, after claiming their first ever AYWC Gold in 2024.

The senior squad features a largely young squad – the oldest player being only 30 – with some intriguing talent rising through the pipeline.

Can South Australia return to the podium, a place they last were in 2023?

Welcome to the preview of South Australia for the upcoming Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships in Melbourne from April 13-19.

For links to more stories, podcasts, broadcast schedule and tournament information, visit our tournament hub at www.baseball.com.au/women. Make sure you download Baseball+ for broadcasted games.

The 2024 tournament like a watershed moment for Queensland women’s baseball for a number of reasons.

In the elite division, Queensland Maroon secured their first medal at a senior women’s championship since 2016 by claiming bronze.

In the youth division, Queensland reached their third straight gold medal game. They ultimately took home silver – just a year after from winning it all.

There’s no question Queensland Women’s Baseball is on the rise.

This year they have two teams entered in the Women’s Championships – an “A” team (Maroon) and a Development Team (White). Can they double down on last year’s success?

Can the Youth squad continue the formidable rise and make it to the championship game for a fourth year running?

Welcome to the preview of Queensland for the upcoming Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships in Melbourne from April 13-19.

For links to more stories, podcasts, schedule and tournament information, visit our Tournament Hub at www.baseball.com.au/women. We’ll be updating everything here. 

Make sure you download Baseball+ for broadcasted games. Head to the Hub for scoring links.

QUEENSLAND MAROON: Can young Queensland core improve on their historic bronze medal?

---

2024 Result: Bronze Medal

It was nearly a silver medal for Queensland in 2024.

They had New South Wales on the ropes in the Preliminary Final, dropping an epic 10-9 classic vs their rivals. It was arguably the most exciting game of last year’s tournament.

They were also closer than anyone to scoring a win over undefeated Victoria. They fell 6-5 in a gripping group stage game.

It certainly put the Australian baseball world on notice.

“Women’s baseball in Queensland is getting stronger every year,” says manager Lisa Norrie. “We are keeping players in the game longer as we have so many off season programs now to help keeping them working throughout the year on growing and developing their skill sets. Baseball Queensland should be commended to that.”

While regulars like Hannah Marshall, Rio Bradley and longtime pitcher Lyndsey Campbell won’t play this year, the team is not short of returning talent.

Shiori Hoshino is arguably the leader and one of the best players in the country. Nicknamed ‘the Boss’, she plays dynamic short-stop and can throw big innings on the pound.

Hoshino hit .429 last tournament while tallying a 1.70 ERA on the bump.

Kya Foxwell has been regarded as one of the elite bats in the women’s game, but has struggled to stay healthy. She looks in great form heading into these nationals. Foxwell has previously played for the Brisbane Bandits in the Australian Women’s Showcase and has accolades from the junior ranks.

17-year-old Molly Paddison will hope to build on her breakout 2024 campaign, one where she co-led the tournament in hits (15), recorded a staggering .536 average and drove in eight runs.

Norrie told baseball.com.au her progression has been fun to watch, in an excellent feature crafted by Eliza Wood.

“It’s exciting to see her evolve into such a well-rounded player, constantly pushing herself to grow. That drive is a big part of what makes her such a special talent,” says Norrie. “Adding pitching back into her game shows how dedicated she is to being the best version of herself, both for her team and for her own growth.”

Above: Molly Paddison had a breakout tournament. Eliza Wood wrote a feature story on the woman they call ‘The Business’ you can read here. 

To back up the pitching, Tamika Zamora (below )returns. She took a huge step forward on the hill last year, nearly leading Queensland to a win over Victoria.

But perhaps most intriguing about Queensland are the players they have moving up from last year’s silver medal AYWC side.

Charlotte Stokes is one of them. She tossed 6.2 innings at the 2024 U16 Nationals, allowing just two runs. She also hit .353 with three doubles.

Catcher Holly Moellers won the Golden Glove at the U16 event, and Lila Hall hit .400.

Also catching the eye of selectors and teammates alike is Grace White. She led Queensland White with a .667 average in 2024 and moves to the top team in 2025.

“I think Grace White with the bat is going to have an unreal tournament as she has been grinding hard for this upcoming nationals over the last 12 months,” says Foxwell. “I also think Charlotte Stokes is gonna have a wicked torment on the mound. She is unreal pitcher and baller who is coming up and it awesome to see the young girls showing us older girl we gotta start worker harder than we are now to keep up!”

17-year-old Ashley Van Staden won a gold in 2023 at the AYWC and returns for her second outing with the top Queensland side.

Taliya Paolo was one of the more energising players on Queensland’s development squad in 2024 and gets an opportunity with the top team in 2024.

“We have a great young team this year,” says Norrie “We have lost a few players from last year’s team due to injury and work commitments which will be a big loss but we have gained some great young talent. They are all bought in to our culture of the team and the expectations. They are amazing young athletes and it excites me about the future of women’s baseball in Queensland.”

Schedule:
– April 13, 9:00AM AEST vs South Australia
– April 14, 2:30PM AEST vs New South Wales
– April 15, 9:00AM AEST vs Queensland White
– April 15, 2:30PM AEST vs Western Australia
– April 16, 9:00AM AEST vs Victoria

QUEENSLAND WHITE: Development squad for Queensland looks to cause national tournament chaos

---

2024 result: Sixth

They may be the development team for Queensland but they insist their not here to make up numbers.

Queensland White wants to win. That attitude is reflected from legendary Emeralds player Karina Connors, the head coach.

“I’m a competitive person and my goal for the Queensland White team is to play Queensland Maroon in the Gold Medal Game,” she says. “It’s a National Championship and everyone has the same chances of winning. We’re trying to build our pipeline of players so that they have as many opportunities to play the best players in Australia.”

Connors joined Amy McCann, Amy Cannington and Tahnee Lovering on the Girls are Players Too podcast and gave incredible insights to the team.

What has Connors excited is the work ethic of her squad.

“We’ve got quite a few younger players coming through our program and they have done everything asked of them and then some,” she says. “They don’t quit and they are resilient.”

A player poised for a breakout could be Amelia Wright, a youngster who moved to Queensland from Victoria. She moves up from the youth age group.

Wright is bringing “fresh energy” to trainings and brings lots of tournament experience, including playing for Australia at the Baseball5 World Cup.

Tiffanie Morris has been injured the last two tournaments. But healthy, strong, and in-form, could be set for a big week.

“She’s been making adjustment with her hitting and I think we’ll see some power from her,” says Connors.

Multiple players have tipped Ash Ruzicka to explode this tournament.

“It’s her first year coming up from youth but she is  a weapon in the outfield and on the base paths with her speed,” says Morriss. 

Storm Law, Jess Russell, Cathy Rowe and Britt Wylie all may have to pitch crucial innings, too.

“Watch Cathy Rowe,” says teammate Emma Reid. “She has worked tirelessly on both her pitching and short stop skills.”

Reid is a cool story in herself. She has played softball on Victoria’s state team for year before moving to Far North Queensland and dominating a baseball field.

A mum of three, with lots of nationals experience, she could also be a secret weapon.

Three friendship players – Ebony Sutherland, Emma Sullivan and Felicity Clissold – join the squad from Victoria.

“They are picking up some guns,” says Emerald Amy McCann, commentator at the upcoming tournaments and a player in Victoria herself.

Schedule:
– April 13, 2:30PM AEST vs Western Australia
– April 14, 9:00AM AEST vs South Australia
– April 15, 9:00AM AEST vs Queensland Maroon
– April 15, 11:45AM AEST vs Victoria
– April 16, 11:45AM AEST vs New South Wales

AYWC PREVIEW: Can Queensland go to a Gold Medal Game for a fourth year in a row?

---

2024 Result: Silver

Queensland has played in the last three youth Gold Medal games. Can they make it a fourth?

While many of the players who have won gold (2023) or silver (2024) have moved up a division, there is still a solid core amongst the Queensland U16 group.

In fact, eight players who competed in last year’s championship game are set to return. This has head coach Neal Ragau intrigued by the possibilities.

“I believe we will have a well rounded team effort this year,” says Ragau.

“Some of the players who have aged out over the last two years were part of the youth women’s program for around 4-5 years, starting before covid. This year will see the first group that is fully post COVID, so hasn’t had as much time in our program and experienced as much tournament play that teams in the past have had.”

It means everyone has to chip in.

Among the returners is 14-year-old Bella Nolan. She had 10 strikeouts in 6.1 innings pitched last year – that’s some serious swing and miss stuff.

“She’s an amazing player anywhere in the field and she doesn’t buckle under pressure,” says teammate Lillian Fogg of Nolan. “She’s definitely someone you want to play with not against.”

Hannah Elliot (6.2 innings) and Amelia Stephens (9.2 innings) each ate big innings last year and will return to help guide a young squad.

Elliot has been recorded at 70mph off the mound and could be poised for a big tournament if that velocity is there.

Sally Knechtli and Natalie Murphy are two other top-age players to keep an eye on.

Sienna Fens, Bella Nolan, Lucy Plumb and Kayla Sparks area all younger players to watch with multiple years left on the team.

Sparks says some off-field work has helped improve her game.

“My knowledge of the game has improved. I became a scorer over the last 12 months, and it has really helped me have a whole new perspective on baseball,” she says. 

Imogine Masters has been working hard and travelling around the world trying to crack this Queensland squad. She finally has.

“I think my pitching has improved a lot,” she says. “I went from barely knowing to what I was doing and just throwing the ball and now I can do what I love at a high level.”

Ragau says overall he’s encouraged with how Queensland women’s baseball is developing.

Schedule:
– April 15, 9:00AM AEST vs New South Wales
– April 15, 1:30PM AEST vs Victoria
– April 16, 9:00AM AEST vs South Australia
– April 17, 11:15AM AEST vs Western Australia

Follow baseball.com.au on social media for tournament updates and make sure you visit ‘The Hub’ at www.baseball.com.au/women.

MORE PREVIEWS

---

 

Can last year’s silver medalists go one step further?

How will almost an entirely new youth women’s team perform on the big stage?

Welcome to the preview of New South Wales for the upcoming Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships in Melbourne from April 13-19.

For links to more stories, podcasts, schedule and tournament information, visit our tournament hub at www.baseball.com.au/women.

Make sure you download Baseball+ for broadcasted games.

WOMEN’S PREVIEW: Experienced squad primed to make another run at gold

---

2024 Result: Silver Medal

Whenever New South Wales takes the field in a national championship there is one clear goal: Win. It. All.

This year is no different.

New South Wales took home silver in 2024. The tournament ended on a tough note.

After winning a heated preliminary final vs Queensland, a 10-9 epic, New South Wales was ready to take on Victoria in the championship game.

Enter the rain. The gold medal game was never played.

Victoria were declared deserving winners after going unbeaten in the tournament.

However, it’s left New South Wales hungry for a shot at redemption.

The 2025 team features five members of the 2023 Emeralds – INF/ P Maddison McGuire, UTIL Ticara Geldenhuis, C Maddison Heath, P / INF Claire O’Sullivan and P / INF Maddison Erwin – all of whom have won gold at a national championship before.

Claire O’Sullivan did it all last tournament, both with the bat and on the mound. She won the Golden Bat Award after hitting .714 with a 2.024 OPS, 15 hits, a homer and 15 RBI. All of those numbers were tournament leading.

Outfielder Ticara Geldenhuis (below) brings World Cup experience, a women’s nationals gold and time in Japan to the fray. In the Japanese national championships last year, she hit .600 and hit a walk off homer.

The squad is buoyed by the return of Maddison McGuire, a member of the Emeralds since 2011. She returns to form after missing last year due to welcoming her second daughter to the world. The infielder / pitcher has been in All-Star form for powerhouse Blacktown Workers in the women’s competition.

On the mound, while World Cup pitchers, O’Sullivan, McGuire and Maddi Erwin will no doubt pitch important innings, New South Wales will look to a few others to navigate through the tournament. The likes of MacKenzie Jackson and Ebony Van Eynde will be tasked with going deep into games.

“[I’ve been working a lot on] my pitching mechanics,” says Jackson, entering tournament number nine. “I’m lucky enough to have the coaching staff I do at Blacktown Workers and fortunate enough to work with current ABL players.”

The coaching staff has a few different key cogs in their line-up, too.

18-year-old Isobel Lambert broke out last season and is a noted rising star. Emerald Maddison Heath appears healthy. Sayaka Mori and Lisa Nakashio (below) have turned into to well-rounded, athletic stars to provide some versatility.

“I’d be watching Lisa Nakashio and Izzy Lambert,” says Claire O’Sullivan, “I’m their number one fan because they work so hard to be the best and have the best attitudes. Everything they do is for the team.”

There’s a few breakout stars in the mix. 16-year-old Ryleigh Delacour-Batch makes her senior women’s debut.

“I am the youngest on the team and I am very grateful to be surrounded by such incredible female athletes,” says Delacour-Batch, who starred for the Youth Squad in 2024.

Outfielder Cayla Johnston is in sizzling form entering the tournament too. The Eastern Suburbs Dolphins player had a breakout women’s season in New South Wales and looks to show it off at nationals.

“She has been working hard at training and has had a great club season,” says Isobel Lambert. “She’s highly dedicated and I think she will have a breakthrough tournament.”

With a deep pitching staff, a core of champion players, national team talent, and a couple new players providing fresh perspective, is this the year New South Wales return to the top?

Group Stage Schedule:

– April 13, 11:45AM: vs Western Australia
– April 13, 5:15PM: vs Victoria
– April 14, 2:30PM: vs Queensland Maroon
– April 15, 5:15PM: vs South Australia
– April 16, 11:45AM: vs Queensland White

YOUTH PREVIEW: Unified energy, positive team culture drives young New South Wales squad ahead of U16 Girls Nationals

---

2024 Result: 4th

If the senior New South Wales squad is loaded with experience, the Youth squad is undergoing somewhat of a transition.

Only four players return from last year’s team.

Still, head coach Amy Saliba is excited about the prospects of her young squad.

“Overall, the team vibe has been positive and supportive,” says Saliba. “The girls will always have one big open circle which welcomes everyone and anyone, opposed to a number of small groups mixed throughout the team. They also seem to love to end a training night with a BeReal team selfie!”

Among the four returning players is Ivy White (below) . She enters her final year of youth eligibility. She’ll likely be tasked with catching important moments for the team.

Tamyrn Love also returns and has been playing Division I for Ryde in the New South Wales Women’s League, helping them to a grand final.

“I think my pitching has improved a lot over the last 12 months,” says Love. “People didn’t really think of me as a pitcher before but recently I have been given so many great opportunities on the mound. I have been helped my so many great coaches, that I have come so far. With the help of a growth spurt!”

Lily Warren has also been catching the eyes of her teammates in training.

“Every training she is there putting in 100% always and also picking up anyone who feels down,” says teammate Lily Baxter. “She also doesn’t get down on herself and if she makes an error she will laugh about it and do better the next time the ball gets hit at her.”

Tallara Joseph-Riogi – a hard throwing pitcher – was also an oft-named player to watch by her teammates.

Tallara herself, however, is quick to deflect the attention elsewhere.

“My whole team is one to watch,” she says. “Every single one of them brings something special to the team talented, unique and strong”

The teamwork and energy around the team has coach Amy Saliba excited as a whole about girls baseball in New South Wales.

“It’s definitely growing,” says Saliba. “The NSW Little League Girls series held at the beginning of the year was a hit and I’m excited to see how women’s baseball develops with these talented girls coming through the ranks in the coming years.”

Group Stage Schedule:
– April 15, 9:00AM: vs QLD
– April 15, 11:45AM: vs SA
– April 16, 11:15AM: vs WA
– April 17, 9:00AM: vs VIC

MORE PREVIEWS

---

 

CARVE Eyewear will be rewarding peak performance at the 2025 Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Championships.

The performance eyewear company and Baseball Australia confirmed an agreement in time for the premier women’s baseball event from April 13-19.

For the first day of each individual event – Women’s and Youth Women’s – we will name a ‘Carve Performer of the Day’ for each team in the tournament.

The winner of each team will receive sunglasses courtesy of Carve. We will also name a “CARVE Play of the Tournament” for each division.

Carve’s performance eyewear blends cutting-edge technology with sleek design to ensure optimal clarity, comfort and protection in every athletic pursuit.

Their products are crafted for sport. You can view their performance products here.

The national championships run from April 13-19. For information, visit our tournament hub at www.baseball.com.au/women.

MORE INFO

---

CARVE’s sunglasses are engineered with advanced UV protection, ensuring maximum defence against harmful rays during long hours on the field.

The impact-resistant lenses provide robust durability, perfect for the dynamic and fast-paced nature of baseball. Additionally, our anti-glare lens configurations enhance visual clarity, allowing players to maintain optimum depth perception even in the brightest conditions.

Ensuring highest technical standards, CARVE Eyewear delivers exceptional value, making top-tier performance sunglasses accessible to all Baseballers.

Elevate your game, your own way with CARVE Eyewear—where innovation meets affordability.

On Wednesday 16 April 2025, the power of sport will once again be harnessed to drive change, as NO MORE teams up with Baseball Australia at the Australian Women’s and Youth Women’s Baseball Championships for the annual NO MORE Day.

Now in its eleventh year, this powerful partnership continues to shine a light on domestic and family violence while celebrating the strength of community, leadership, and action.

Players, umpires and coaching staff will proudly link arms before each game today, with teams wearing orange NO MORE sweatbands, umpires in orange shirts.

As part of the campaign, a ‘Spirit of the Game’ Award will be presented to one player from each team, an umpire and a scorer at the end of the tournament who embodies fair play, teamwork, community, and respect on and off the field – setting a positive example for all.

This year’s theme – “What Can I Do?” – reminds us that change starts with each of us.

Whether on the field, in the crowd or watching from home, everyone can take action.

Speak up. Show respect. Start a conversation. Offer support. Challenge harmful attitudes. Small actions create big change.

HOW TO TAKE ACTION

---

Pledge your action today.

Head to nomore.org.au – or directly to https://tinyurl.com/2025AWYWC – and share your commitment on the pledge board. Join players, officials and fans in showing the world that you are part of the solution.

You can also support this important work by making a donation to NO MORE.

Every contribution helps fund community-led education, prevention and awareness programs across Australia. Visit https://www.nomore.org.au/donate to donate and help create safe homes and communities.

ABOUT NO MORE

---

NO MORE is a national Aboriginal-led initiative founded by Dr Charlie King AM, working with communities to prevent domestic and family violence through education, awareness, and grassroots action.

For more information, useful links or to support NO MORE’s pages below.

Domestic Violence Action Plan: https://www.nomore.org.au/create-your-own-domestic-violence-action-plan

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NOMORE.org.au/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomore.org.au/

Web: No More | Link up and say ‘No More’ to family violence

Toolkit & Resources: https://www.nomore.org.au/no-more-toolkit-and-resources

If you or a person you know is in immediate danger, call 000. If you or a person you know needs support, please contact the below direct service providers.

VIOLENCE1800RESPECT I 1800 737 732 (24/7)

www.1800respect.org.au – call or chat online

National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling, information and support service.

THE OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

---

For a flyer on official proceedings in PDF form, click here. 

– Orange sweatbands for the players and coaches, who will sport them throughout the day

– Linking of arms before each game;

– Spectators encouraged to wear orange

– Spirit of the Award winners announced at closing ceremonies;

– Baseball community encouraged to take the pledge and donate;