The Marlborough Softball Association are anticipating an exciting and challenging 2026-27 season.
There is excitement around a rise in participation, a new competition and a busy rep and club playing schedule.
However, the challenges for the sport’s administrators and softball community started early, when gear stored in a container at their Lansdowne Park base was damaged.
Association President Caroline Aberhart said, “volunteers undertaking a spring clean of the equipment storage container behind diamond one were met with an unwelcome surprise”.
“Following the severe winter weather, floodwater had coursed through the container, leaving a thick layer of silt and damaging a significant amount of equipment, including the JAB barbecue. Committee members and volunteers spent much of the weekend salvaging what they could, with dozens of junior gloves washed and drying on a committee member's roof in an impressive community effort.
“While there is work ahead to repair the container and replace damaged equipment, the Association remains focused on growing the game locally,” said Caroline.
Plans are underway to introduce a new mixed social softball competition, starting in February 2027 and utilising a pitching machine, “creating an accessible and enjoyable option for families, workplace teams, and anyone keen to give softball a go”.
“The pitching machine ensures every pitch is in the strike zone,” said Caroline, “the games are short, just one hour … it is a great opportunity to get more people on the diamond and it may unearth some softball talent along the way.”
Caroline steps in as MSA president this season, joining previous committee members Sam Campbell, Nini Arthur and Tyler Bird, while Rosie Muollo, Wendy Tantrum and Kaylene Tahuhu are new to the executive.
A boost for the local fraternity and the incoming committee was a recent visit by Casey Eden, the recently-appointed Chief Executive of Softball New Zealand, who met with MSA representatives at the Lansdowne Sports Hub.
The local competition kicks off on 17 October with dates for the Te Tauihu competition (Marlborough men’s and women’s club teams v Nelson clubs) in November and February to be confirmed.
The representative season dates are also set. The Seddon Shield, currently held by Marlborough, will be contested on 15 November in Nelson, the Jefferies and Jubilee Cup events will be held on 5-6 December in Christchurch while the Heartland championships, attended by both men’s and women’s reps, will take place on 28-31 January in Hamilton.
Mike Godsall will coach the women’s senior team with Steve Gill back to coach the men’s rep side.
“We are excited to welcome players back for another season,” said Caroline.
“We have growth across the association and a few new faces joining the committee and are particularly encouraged by increased participation among under 18s and men.
“We are continuing to strengthen our relationship with Nelson, creating more opportunities for players and clubs across Te Tauihu.
“It is sure to be an exciting season,” she added.
