NZ Black Sox

 

WBSC MEN'S SOFTBALL GROUP B QUALIFIER 2024 RESULTS

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19 August 2024
 

GAME	RESULT
Wednesday 10 July 2024 - 8.00am NZT	SINGAPORE vs NEW ZEALAND	0 - 2
Thursday 11 July 2024 - 4.00am NZT	NEW ZEALAND vs ISRAEL	10 - 0
Friday 12 July 2024 - 1.00pm NZT	NEW ZEALAND vs CANADA	5 - 1
Saturday 13 July 2024 - 7.00am NZT	ARGENTINA vs NEW ZEALAND	4 - 1
Saturday 13 July 2024 - 10.00am NZT	HONG KONG vs NEW ZEALAND	0 - 12
Sunday 14 July 2024 (Final) - 10am NZT	NEW ZEALAND vs ARGENTINA	13 - 0
Sunday 14 July 2024 (Repechage) - 1pm	CANADA vs NEW ZEALAND	1 - 4

 

2024 BLACK SOX TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT

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19 April 2024 

Softball NZ’s President, Lynda O’Cain in conjunction with the New Zealand Black Sox proudly announce the selection of 16 athletes who will represent New Zealand at the Group Stage Qualifier in Prince Albert, Canada, from July 10 to July 14.

The selected athletes have earned a well-deserved place to represent New Zealand on the international stage. It was a tough selection process, reducing from the wider Black Sox squad to 22, and then to this final 16. The depth of talented athletes made for robust selection discussions. While we congratulate the athletes who have earned selection, we recognise the disappointment of those who missed selection this time and encourage you to channel this focus into future opportunities.

The Group Stage Qualifier in Prince Albert is a crucial step towards our goal next year. Congratulations to the selected athletes. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence and proudly represent New Zealand.

New Zealand Black Sox Team – WBSC Group Stage Qualifier (Prince Albert, Canada).
Tyron Bartorillo – Canterbury
Te Wera Bishop – Wellington
Daniel Chapman – Auckland
Ben Enoka – Auckland
Thomas Enoka – Auckland
Cole Evans – Auckland [Captain]
Rhys Evans – Auckland
Nik Hayes – Auckland
Wayne Laulu – Wellington
Reilly Makea – Wellington
Hohepa Monk – North Harbour
Tane Mumu – Hutt Valley
Liam Potts – Canterbury
Jerome Raemaki – Wellington
Pita Rona – North Harbour
Cameron Watts – Canterbury

Non-Travelling Reserves
Max Earley – Auckland
Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola - Wellington
Jayden Stratford – Wellington
Damon Creasy – Wellington
Callum Bishop – Canterbury
Jackson Watt – Canterbury

Best wishes for this campaign

2024 BLACK SOX SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT

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25 March 2024 

Softball NZ’s President, Lynda O’Cain, is pleased to announce the names selected for this year’s NZ Black Sox squad. The following 22 athletes will make up the final 16 players and reserves for the WBSC Group Stage qualifier to be held in Prince Albert, Canada from 10 to 14 July 2024.

Head Coach Thomas Makea shares “These athletes selected will come together in Wellington over the weekend of 12-14 April where we will set intention and continue to build the solid foundation of Black Sox for our next campaign. Some solid performances by squad members on our tour to American Samoa in November as well as through our just completed domestic season, has rewarded these players with an opportunity to make the final 16. Over the coming weeks, our focus will shift towards physical and mental conditioning. This period will prove valuable for both our experienced athletes and those striving to elevate their performance. The balanced mix of experience and ambition within the team fosters a highly competitive training environment, ensuring everyone is motivated to reach their full potential and performing to a high standard consistently to be able to make the NZ Black Sox. There are no free rides, everyone will earn their ticket to Prince Albert, Canada”.

Ben Enoka makes a return to the squad after being unavailable for the season but solidified his squad selection with solid domestic performances for Auckland United and Auckland at NFC. Makea adds “It’s great to have Ben’s experience and leadership back in the mix”.

Congratulations to the following players on their selection;

• Tyron Bartorillo – Canterbury
• Callum Bishop – Canterbury
• Te Wera Bishop – Wellington
• Daniel Chapman – Auckland
• Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola – Wellington
• Damon Creasy – Wellington
• Max Earley – Auckland
• Ben Enoka – Auckland
• Thomas Enoka – Auckland
• Cole Evans – Auckland
• Rhys Evans – Auckland
• Nik Hayes – Auckland
• Wayne Laulu – Wellington
• Reilly Makea – Wellington
• Hohepa Monk – North Harbour
• Tane Mumu – Hutt Valley
• Liam Potts - Canterbury
• Jerome Raemaki – Wellington
• Pita Rona – North Harbour
• Jayden Stratford – Wellington
• Jackson Watt – Canterbury
• Cameron Watts – Canterbury
   

Best wishes for this campaign.

Article added: Monday 25 March 2024
 

WBSC OCEANIA MEN'S SOFTBALL QUALIFIER 2023 RESULTS

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11 November 2023 
 

GAME	RESULT
Friday 10 November 2023 - 3.00pm NZT	AUSTRALIA vs NEW ZEALAND	3 - 9
Friday 10 November 2023 - 7.00pm NZT	AMERICAN SAMOA vs NEW ZEALAND	0 - 15
Saturday 11 November 2023 - 12.00pm NZT	NEW ZEALAND vs AUSRALIA	4 - 11
Saturday 11 November 2023 - 3.00pm NZT	NEW ZEALAND vs AMERICAN SAMOA	15 - 0
Sunday 12 November 2023 - 12.00pm NZT	NEW ZEALAND vs AUSTRALIA	0 - 7
Sunday 12 November 2023 - 6.00pm NZT	AMERICAN SAMOA vs NEW ZEALAND	13 - 0

NEW ZEALAND BLACK SOX TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT

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GOLDEN HOMES NEW ZEALAND BLACK SOX TEAM NAMED

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GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX TRIALISTS NAMED

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• Golden Homes Black Sox Trial 
  • 15 - 16 Oct 2022, North Harbour, Rosedale Park
• Tradestaff National Fastpitch Championship 
  • 21 - 24 Oct 2022, Canterbury Mizuno Ballpark
• Golden Homes Black Sox Invitational Club Challenge 
  • 4 - 6 Nov 2022, North Harbour, Rosedale Park
• Tradestaff International Invitation Series 
  • 18 - 20 Nov 2022, Manawatū, Colquhoun Park

BLACK SOX TEAM ANNOUNCED

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BLACK SOX TRIALISTS NAMED

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BLACK SOX NAME 31-STRONG TRAINING SQUAD

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GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX SQUAD NAMED

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40 MAN BLACK SOX TRAINING SQUAD NAMED

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26 December 2019

Golden Homes Black Sox Head Coach Mark Sorenson has named his first squad to commence the 2021 World Cup campaign.

The squad will initially take part in regional fitness testing in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch during January. A team will be named following the Open Club Nationals in March.

“This is a Foundation Squad to start what will possibly be the shortest World Cup campaign ever. We will name the team for the World Cup in less than 12 months and the event will be on us in 14 months.” Sorenson say’s.

“There's a strong emphasis on youth in the squad and it's going to be exciting for us to work with the next generation coming through, plus the other returnees that will have the benefit of experience in their court.

The Softball world has shown us that our standard this year was no longer good enough, so we all need to be better.

There's no better time for this group to start working than now, as we are looking for the final team selected to be the fastest and fittest than ever before.” Say’s Sorenson.

40 Man Black Sox Training Squad Named:
Eru Drage, (North Harbour)
Bradley Bennett, Daniel Chapman, Kallan Compain, Ben Enoka, Campbell Enoka, Thomas Enoka, Cole Evans, Rhys Evans, Campbell Gibson, Seth Gibson, Alfons Oveinikovas, Conor Peden, Maddix Rice, Pita Rona, Rsychan Thompson, Liam Twigden, Harry Valk, Zane Van Lieshout, Taine Slaughter (Auckland)
Joel Evans, Joe Ferriso, Cory Timu, Campbell Ngarimu (Hutt Valley)
Zac Boyd, Damon Creasey, Jayden Stratford, Jerome Raemaki, Josh Pettett, Sam Marley, Reilly Makea, Alex Lundon (Wellington)
Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton, Josh Harbrow, Jackson Watt, Nathan Watt, Ben Watts (Canterbury)
Nik Hayes (Australia)
Ethan Johnston (USA)

EDEN AND MARINO RE-JOIN GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX

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GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX FINISH THE TOURNAMENT IN FOURTH POSITION

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WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP PLACINGS AND STATISTICS

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XVI MEN'S WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DRAW & RESULTS

Official Website

 

DATE (NZ TIME)	LOCAL TIME	VENUE	GAME	RESULT	MEDIA
14 June  5.30 am	7.30 pm	Prague	New Zealand vs Czech Republic	9-0	Sky Sport 1
16 June  2.30 am	4.30 pm	Prague	Cuba vs New Zealand	0-2	Sky Sport Pop Up 2
17 June  2.00 am	4.00 pm	Havlickuv B	New Zealand vs Mexico	4-5	Sky Sport Pop Up 5
17 June  11.30 pm	1.30 pm	Prague	Botswana vs New Zealand	0-7	Sky Sport 1
19 June  2.30 am	4.30 pm	Havlickuv B	New Zealand vs Japan	1-5	Sky Sport 3
19 June  11.30 pm	1.30 pm	Prague	Phillipines vs New Zealand	0-15	Sky Sport 3
21 June  2.30 am	4.30 pm	Havlickuv B	Argentina vs New Zealand	6-4	Sky Sport Pop Up 1
22 June  2.30 am	4.30 pm	Prague	New Zealand vs Australia	7-4	Sky Sport Pop Up 2
23 June  2.30 am	4.30 pm	Prague	New Zealand vs Japan	1-2	Sky Sport Pop Up 2
24 June  2.30 am	4.30 pm	Prague	New Zealand vs Canada	1-2

Golden Homes Black Sox finish the tournament in fourth position.

GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX SQUAD TO COMPETE AT THE WBSC XVI MEN'S SOFTBALL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

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26 March, 2019

Pitchers
Daniel Chapman - Auckland
Nik Hayes - Auckland
Josh Pettett - Wellington

Catchers
Kallan Compain - Auckland
Zane van Lieshout - Auckland

Infield
Tyron Bartorillo - Canterbury
Cole Evans - Auckland
Joel Evans – Hutt Valley
Josh Harbrow - Canterbury
Nathan Nukunuku (C) - Auckland
Jerome Raemaki - Wellington

Outfield
Ben Enoka - Auckland
Campbell Enoka - Auckland
Thomas Enoka - Auckland
Wayne Laulu - Wellington
Reilly Makea - Wellington
Jackson Watt – Canterbury

WBSC MEN'S SOFTBALL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
SUPPORTERS TOUR PACKAGES

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22 February 2019

Supporters Tour Packages

BSX HEAD COACH CASTING KEEN EYE OVER U23 MENS CHAMPS

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6 December 2018

Golden Homes Black Sox Head Coach, Mark Sorenson will be casting a keen eye over the U23 men’s provincial championship at Fraser Park in early January as he prepares for what promises to be a very busy front end of 2019.

The high quality domestic event provides a final selection opportunity as Black Sox management look to name 32 athletes for the TAB Challenge Cup that will see the hosts take on 2017 World Championship finalists Australia, and current world number 3 Japan.

“It’s an opportunity for someone to put their hand up and grab a spot in the 32, there are still a couple of spots to fill which are likely to come from this event” says Sorenson

TAB Challenge Cup precedes the National Fastpitch Championship to be held in Christchurch in February, and the Men’s Open Championships in Auckland in March prior to Sorenson naming his final selection for the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup being held in Prague, Czech Republic June 13-23.

Tickets for the TAB Challenge Cup are on sale now at www.iticket.co.nz

BEN WATTS NAMED IN GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX SQUAD

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INTERCONTINENTAL CUP LINKS

• Tournament website: http://icc2018.softball.cz/en/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ICCup2018
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/czechsoftball
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/czechsoftball/
• Statistics for Intercontinental Cup 

LIVE-STREAMING
All games will be live-streamed by playo.tv and available on their website (and also the baseballsoftball.tv platform): http://www.playo.tv/event.aspx?akcID=3195

 

DATE (NZ TIME)	GAME (Streamed)	RESULT		STREAMING	BOX
Wed 29 Aug, 2:30 AM	USA	7-0 (W)		View	View
Thu 30 Aug, 2:30 AM	Argentina	3-5 (L)		View	View
Thur 30 Aug, 8:30 PM	Denmark	15-0 (W)		View	View
Fri 31 Aug, 2.30 AM	Japan	5-0 (W)		View	View
Sat 1 Sept, 5:30 AM	Czech Republic	8-1 (W)		View	View
Sun 2 Sept - FINAL	Japan	5-1 (W)		View	View

 

BLACK SOX EMBARK FOR EUROPE

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21 Aug, 2018

The Golden Homes Black Sox depart for new shores tonight as they head for the European continent for the first time in their history.

The Black Sox will travel to Prague, Czech Republic with 6 new caps to compete at the Intercontinental Cup, 28 August to 1 September.

The event will feature a six-team format and top-ranked WBSC men’s softball national teams from Asia, Europe, North and South America: No. 1 New Zealand, No. 3 Japan, No. 4 Argentina, No. 6 USA, No. 7 Czech Republic and No. 11 Denmark.
Czech National Television has been awarded the television rights in the host country, while all games will be live-streamed by Playo.tv.

The Intercontinental Cup will serve as a precursor to the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup in 2019, which will also be hosted in Prague by Czech Softball.

Czech Softball President Gabriel Waage said: “The event is a great opportunity for us, as the organisers of the Men’s Softball World Cup 2019, to make sure that everything will work.”

The seven time World Champion Black Sox will take on Team Europe, 2nd September in an exhibition game prior to the Men’s European Super Cup, 3-8 September. The Super Cup solely for European club teams will feature a number of Black Sox players who have been picked up as guest players to help bolster the chances of European club sides.

Black Sox Assistant Coach Daryl Marino will guide the team in Mark Sorenson's absence who is on a sabbatical. That will provide an opportunity for New Zealand U23 Major Sox coach Steve Deans as his assistant.

“As a group we have embraced the legacy of the New Zealand Black Sox. With this in mind we can add to this with the honour of being the first Black Sox team to play softball in Europe,” Marino said.

is a great opportunity to expose our young group to some of the highest quality International softball teams in the World. As well as the quality of opposition the tour will also allow some of the younger leaders in the group to grow and build on their experiences in this environment. It will also give us the perfect opportunity to continue preparations moving towards the World Cup in 2019. This will include playing at both grounds that will be used for the world Cup.
Finally, as with every tournament we compete in, we will continue to represent the Black Sox brand, our hosts, whom we are very grateful too, and the game of softball with the respect they all deserve,” he said.



GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX
PITCHERS
Nik Hayes (Hutt Valley), Daniel Chapman (Auckland), Campbell Gibson (Auckland), Eru Drage (Auckland).

CATCHERS
Kallan Compain (Auckland), Zane van Lieshout (Auckland)

INFIELDERS
Pita Rona (North Harbour), Joel Evans (Hutt Valley), Cole Evans (Auckland), Rhys Evans (Auckland), Jerome Raemaki (Wellington), Joe Ferriso Jr (Hutt Valley).

OUTFIELDERS
Ben Enoka (Auckland, captain), Thomas Enoka (Auckland), Campbell Enoka (Auckland), Reilly Makea (Canterbury), Jackson Watt (Canterbury).

Head Coach: Daryl Marino. Assistant Coach: Steve Deans. Battery Coach: Jim Wana. Video Analyst: Conrad Bain. Manager: Casey Eden. Scorer: Ian Ditfort.

GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX NAME NEW SQUAD FOR PRAGUE TOURNAMENT

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23 Jan, 2018

Six new players have been named for the GOLDEN HOMES NEW ZEALAND BLACK SOX’S next tour - but head coach Mark Sorenson and some of his senior world champions are taking time out.

Sorenson, captain Nathan Nukunuku, infielder Tyron Bartorillo and outfielder Wayne Laulu will stay behind when the Black Sox play at the Intercontinental Cup tournament in Prague from August 28 to September 1.

Black Sox assistant-coach Daryl Marino will guide the 17-man team in Sorenson's absence with New Zealand under-23 Major Sox coach Steve Deans as his assistant.

Experienced outfielder Ben Enoka will take over as captain.

Softball New Zealand chief executive Tony Giles said Sorenson “has accepted an offer to take a sabbatical’’.

“Whilst Mark will not be physically in attendance, he has already set the benchmark high for the tour by not only selecting an exciting and youthful squad but selecting a new management line-up also,’’ Giles said.

“Succession planning is key, both on and off the diamond and this is an area where Mark is very astute. His attention to detail in all aspects of campaign planning, including identifying talent, sets him apart in the international game.’’

Black Sox assistant-coach Daryl Marino will guide the team in Sorenson's absence with New Zealand under-23 Major Sox coach Steve Deans as his assistant. Former Black Sox catcher Casey Eden takes over as manager with Jayden Moore ending his 12-year involvement.

Sorenson said his sabbatical allowed the Black Sox “the opportunity to develop the next tier of coaches’’.
“We just felt they would develop better if I am not there. I’ve been part of everything and will continue to be, I just won’t be getting on the plane. The work we’re doing will continue, just with a slightly different flavour.’’

Sorenson – a four-time world champion in a 20-year career as a Black Sox player – has been coaching the national team since 2013.

He loves the role but also has a lot of business responsibilities as central regional manager for the AWF recruitment company. “I haven’t had a family holiday in five or six years as all my leave is taken up with my softball commitments.’’
Sorenson believes taking a break will freshen up his coaching and is convinced it will do the Black Sox players some good to hear “some new voices’’.

He has confidence in Marino to take over and said it was logical to have under-23 coach Deans assist.
Sorenson said the selectors know what Nukunuku, Bartorillo and Laulu – all proven world championship players – can do and it made sense to spell them to blood others and further develop the Black Sox’s depth.

GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX SQUAD
PITCHERS
Nik Hayes (Hutt Valley), Daniel Chapman (Auckland), Campbell Gibson (Auckland), Eru Drage (Auckland).

CATCHERS
Kallan Compain (Auckland), Zane van Lieshout (Auckland)

INFIELDERS
Pita Rona (North Harbour), Joel Evans (Hutt Valley), Cole Evans (Auckland), Rhys Evans (Auckland), Jerome Raemaki (Wellington), Joe Ferriso Jr (Hutt Valley).

OUTFIELDERS
Ben Enoka (Auckland, captain), Thomas Enoka (Auckland), Campbell Enoka (Auckland), Reilly Makea (Canterbury), Jackson Watt (Canterbury).

Head coach: Daryl Marino. Assistant-coach: Steve Deans. Battery coach: Jim Wana. Video analyst: Jamie Frisby. Manager: Casey Eden. Scorer: Ian Ditfort.

For name of BSX trial teams click here.

 

 

FERRISO FORCES WAY INTO BSX TRIAL

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23 Jan, 2018

World Champion Golden Homes Black Sox Head Coach Mark Sorenson has added Joe Ferriso (Junior) in addition to the squad announced last December for the trial games against Czech Republic next month.

Recent form has seen Ferriso force his way into the group to be involved in the 6x game series at AWF Stadium, Rosedale Park, 10-11th February.

 

 

GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX CELEBRATION DINNER

   

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DRAW & RESULTS

 

DATE (NZ TIME)	GAME	RESULT	MEDIA
8 July - 5.30am	Turkey	W 22 - 0 (3 innings)	BOX
9 July - 2.30pm	Czech Republic	W 9 - 2 (5 innings)	BOX
10 July - 12.30pm	Great Britain	W 16 - 0 (5 innings)	BOX
11 July - 12.30pm	Japan	W 8 - 1 (6 innings)	BOX
12 July - 11.30am	Venezuela	L 3 - 7	BOX
13 July - 10.00am	Denmark	W 8 - 1 (5 innings)	BOX
14 July - 6.30am	Botswana	W 7 - 0 (5 innings)	BOX
15 July - 2.00pm	Championship Pool Australia	W 6 - 2	BOX
16 July - 11.00am	Canada	W 12 - 11	BOX
17 July - 11.00am	GOLD MEDAL GAME Australia	WIN!!!!!!! 6-4	BOX

 

Black Sox 6 vs. Australia 4

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17 July, 2017

A grand slam home run by Joel Evans has given the Golden Homes Black Sox their 7th world title at the world softball championships in Whitehorse, Canada today.
Australia who had previously beaten tournament favourites Canada in the earlier game 7-3 to reach the final were led by Adam Folkard in the middle of the pitching circle. Folkard regarded as the best pitcher in the world tied down the kiwi hitting line up for 5 solid innings until the wheels started to wobble allowing New Zealand to set the table in the 6th for Evans. Loaded bases, 2 down and a 3-2 count Evans drives the ball deep for New Zealand to take a big lead and sending the kiwi dugout and fans into elation.
The Black Sox opened the scoring in the bottom of the first through a sacrifice fly to left field by captain Nathan Nukunuku scoring leadoff hitter Campbell Enoka who earlier got on base through a walk.
James Todhunter who had a great week with the bat drove in a runner from second to tie it up at one a piece and two runners on for the Australians. Andrew Kirkpatrick hit a deep fly ball to Thomas Enoka allowing Australia to then take the lead 2-1.
Top of four and another run for Australia with a blooper into left field extending the lead by two.
New Zealand found an opportunity to pull one run back in the bottom of the fifth when big Brad Rona hit a deep fly ball to right field allowing Campbell Enoka to score from third. Campbell Enoka had previously driven a double to the outfield fence.
Folkard starting to struggle and the Black Sox seized the opportunity with a single from Wayne Laulu and a hit pitch to Kallan Compain putting runners on 1st and 2nd for New Zealand. Pinch hitter Josh Harbrow drives a ball just over the top of the 2nd baseman to load the bases. Up steps the man of the hour Joel Evans to who lived out his childhood dreams with the grand slam to clinch it for the men in black.
A late homerun by arguably the best hitter in the world Nick Shales pegged one back for the Aussies to edge them to 6-4.
But it wasn’t enough for the Aussies who eventually went down allowing the Black Sox to win their 7th tile and first on Canadian soil.

Black Sox 12 vs. CANADA 1

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16 July, 2017

A place in the final of the Men’s Softball World Championships was at stake as the Golden Homes Black Sox took on Canada in wet and trying conditions in Whitehorse today.

A win over the red hot Canadians would represent the tenth consecutive world championship final for the Black Sox, a significant feet for any team in any sport.

The Black Sox would have been looking to claim a significant victory and regain some pride given the Canadians have had the better of the men in back in the last two encounters. The Kiwis were well beaten by Canada 10-3 in the Bob Law Memorial tournament in Vancouver 10 days ago and prior to that at the 2015 gold medal game, 9-5.

Canada jumped out to an early 2 run lead in the bottom of the first when Brad Ezekiel put one over centre field fence with a runner on off New Zealand ace Josh Pettett. Pettett had a shaky start after hitting two batters and giving up a double and a homerun.

Campbell Enoka continued his great hitting form with a dinger of his own in the 3^rd inning to tie the score up 2-2 after Tyrone Bartorillo had earlier reached first with a single to left field.

Canada drove in another run in the bottom of third to take the lead and the catalyst for Mark Sorenson to bring in Karl Gollan for the struggling Pettett. Left handed junk pitcher Gollan hit the first batter faced to load the bases and walk in the next to give Canada a 4-2 lead. Gollan hit his second and the fourth batter of the game allowing the Canadians to extend the lead by 3. Two consecutive fly balls allowed two more Canadian runners to score and New Zealand falling deeper behind. A double to centre field and the score to 8-2 meant the end for Gollan and Nik Hayes in from the bullpen. Hayes was unable to stop the bleeding as Canada drove in another run and New Zealand now in run rule territory, 9-2.

But the Black Sox weren’t done as catcher Kallan Compain hit a grand slam off Canadian reliever Justin Schofield in a wet induced game to change the score to 9-6 in the top of the 4^th. The Black Sox collected a number of walks off the struggling Canadian pitchers and a blooper by Wayne Laulu over the top of infield to give New Zealand 2 more and the lead for the first time of the game, 10-9.

It was an unbelievable inning for the Black Sox who scored 8 runs largely due to the wet conditions and a ball that was extremely hard to manage by both teams.

Ezekiel continued to hurt the Black Sox taking his 4^th hit of game and driving in a key RBI to level the game at 10 each.

In form hitter Thomas Enoka showed once again why he is regarded as one world’s best with a ball over left field fence to give New Zealand back the lead. The Kiwis tacked on another run through a heavy slide into the second baseman by Wayne Laulu forcing the error and allowing Cole Evans to score from third on some smart base running.

Bottom of the 7^th will bases loaded, Hayes walks in a Canadian runner to make it 12-11 and now with everything on the line. A ground ball to Bartorillo who takes the out at 3^rd to take the final out in what was one of the most bizarre games of softball seen at this level. No one would have imagined such a score line between the two heavy weights of the softball world.

The Black Sox are now in the final, that’s 10 in a row! Canada will now play the winner of the Argentina versus Australia game which will determine the Black Sox opponent.
 

Black Sox 6 vs. Australia 2

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15 July, 2017

Black Sox 7 vs. Botswana 0

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14 July, 2017

The Golden Homes Black Sox finished section play at the Men’s Softball World Championships with a 7-0 win over Botswana in 5 innings this morning.
Botswanan pitcher Motsholathebe put his team under pressure in the first inning of the game by loading the bases and walking in a run to give New Zealand a 1-0 lead. That brought Thomas Enoka to the plate and a great opportunity to stretch the lead early. Enoka a world class hitter who had struggled during the tournament thus far by his own high standards took the ball deep for a grand slam to give the Black Sox a healthy 5-0 lead.
Bottom of the third and strongman Wayne Laulu chalked up the Black Sox second dinger of the day crushing one out of the yard with a runner on to take New Zealand to 7.
The score remained at seven and zero until the fifth inning, enough for the Black Sox to apply the international mercy rule and complete the game.
Nik Hayes started on the mound for New Zealand and was replaced by southpaw Karl Gollan in the 4th inning. Campbell Gibson came on in the 5th to close the game out.
It was the last opportunity for Black Sox management to ensure all players and the pitching staff in particular were ready for the business end of the tournament commencing at 2pm (NZT) tomorrow.

Black Sox 8 vs. Denmark 1

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13 July, 2017
The Golden Homes Black Sox bounced back after their loss to Venezuela yesterday by closing out Denmark 8-1 in 5 innings at the men’s world softball championships today.
The Black Sox couldn’t have started better with back to back home runs from Campbell Enoka and Joel Evans providing an early 2-0 lead in the top of the first inning.
A Cole Evans 3 run shot saw the Black Sox extend the lead to 6-0 in their next turn at bat.
The game was starting to turn into a slug fest as Denmark’s Martin Simonsen launched one of his own off New Zealand relief pitcher Karl Gollan. But two further runs in the 5th was enough for the Black Sox to get the win and look ahead to the last of the section games against Botswana tomorrow.
Josh Pettett got the start for New Zealand in the middle of the circle throwing 2 innings, giving up a double and taking 4 strikeouts. Pettett will be a key competent for the Black Sox when the playoff commence on Saturday.
The game was a special occasion for big Brad Rona as he notched up his 100th test cap for New Zealand. Rona will join captain Nathan Nukunuku who reached his 100th test against Venezuela yesterday. Both will join greats Thomas Makea (140) and Jarrad Martin (131) in the 100 club.

Black Sox 3 vs. Venezuela 7

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12 July, 2017

The Golden Homes Black Sox met their match in the form of Venezuela in the second game of the day at the men’s world championship in Whitehorse, Canada.
After a commanding performance against world number 2 Japan this morning the Black Sox were down early as the classy Venezuelan hitters took to New Zealand pitcher Nik Hayes.
A home run to Yeider Chirinos in the second at bat of the game fired up the Venezuelans and gave the free swinging South Americans the confidence they needed having gone down to Japan 7-0 on day one of the championship.
Venezuela tacked on another two runs before catcher Kallan Compain hit a solo shot over centre field fence to peg one back in the bottom of the 2nd for the Black Sox.
New Zealand went within one in the bottom of the 3rd but that was as close as they got as a two run shot to Venezuela extend their lead to 5-2 in the 4th inning.
Captain Nathan Nukunuku who had led all day drove in Campbell Enoka who had reached base earlier on an infield single to edge the Sox closer to give the Black Sox their last run of the day.
The Venezuelans ranked 7th in the world and who had never beaten New Zealand added an insurance run in the 6th showed absolute class in the field and some strong hitting at the plate to earn the win.
Some disappointing base running by the Black Sox runners killed off a number of runs early which would have kept the Kiwis closer and provided a stronger point’s differential which is likely to be used to determine the top two teams of section B.
New Zealand will look to move on quickly as they move closer to the play offs which commence on Saturday.

 

BLACK SOX 8 vs. JAPAN 1

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12 July, 2017

Part two of the previous days rain affected game between Japan and New Zealand commenced at 4am NZ time with the Golden Homes Black Sox eager to take control.  The Black Sox needed to start well and erase the 1-0 deficit if order to take the game, a game that would go along way to helping them finish first in section B at the men’s world championships in Whitehorse, Canada.
Japan made the interesting but not surprising pitching change of replacing starting pitcher Hayami Takahashi with Kento Okazaki. The tactic of mixing their pitchers is a common theme with Japanese sides but one that failed as the Black Sox jumped all over Okazaki with four runs in the bottom of the 3rd inning, stunning their opponents early.
Kento who had played for the Mount Albert Ramblers club last season was familiar to the Black Sox hitters and particularly that of Nathan Nukunuku who is the player/coach for the Auckland based side.
Campbell Enoka got the Black sox underway by getting on with a fielders choice followed by a single to whizz kid Cole Evans. Up steps Nukunuku who cleared the table with his first home run of the day, a huge shot over the right field wall to give New Zealand the lead.
Tyrone Bartorillo continued his magnificent hitting form when he drove the ball off field and over the fence for his fifth homerun of the tournament. Bartorillo collected his 11th RBI at the championships and all through home runs.
Bottom of the fifth and in control Nukunuku hit his second bomb and 5th RBI to extend the lead.
The Black Sox kept the foot on the pedal with catcher Zane Van Lieshout grabbing his first hit of the tournament driving in the 7th run of the game. That was followed by Campbell Enoka who finished the game early with an outfield double to bring in the 8th run of the game run ruling the world number two with an impressive 8-1 win.
Black Sox Head Coach will be pleased with the outing and relieved that the bats are awakening as the side edges closer to playoffs.
Pitcher Josh Pettett put in a solid performance in cold and wet conditions and staking his claim as the ace of the pitching staff. Pettett took 8 strikeouts and gave up 4 hits over the shortened 6 inning game.
The Black Sox will play 2013 silver medalists Venezuela at 11:30 NZ time today.

 

BLACK SOX 16 vs. GREAT BRITAIN 0

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10 July, 2017

The Golden Homes Black Sox were hunting their third win of the Men’s Softball World Championship when they took on the luckless Great Britain team who had failed to register a run in the tournament thus far.
Ben Enoka retired hurt in the bottom of the first while stealing second base. The injury will cause serious concern as Enoka is key part of the Black Sox team and regarded as the best lead off in the game.

New Zealand went up 2-0 when Great Britain pitcher James Darby walked four straight to give the Sox their first run of the game. One run went to two as captain Nathan Nukunuku scored on a fielder’s choice.
Campbell Enoka scored in the top of the second when Nukunuku got caught in a deliberate rundown between first and second base sacrificing himself to add one more to the New Zealand tally.

Cole Evans crossed home plate scoring the Kiwi’s fourth run of the game on an Isaac Fletcher single to left field.
Darby pitched another four consecutive walks to give the Black Sox their fifth run of the game and take the walk count to 12. Darby threw one walk too many and that saw relief pitcher Kyle Linton enter the game.

Black Sox catcher Kallan Compain welcomed Linton with a grand slam sealing it for the Kiwis as they jumped out to unassailable 9-0 lead.
Home runs to Josh Harbrow, Cole Evans and Joel Evans with runners on extend the lead to 14-0. Two more runs were added before New Zealand finished the game early in the bottom of the 5th.

Starting pitcher Josh Pettett threw 3 innings taking 6 strike outs and giving up the 1 hit.
New Zealand will meet world number two Japan tomorrow in what will be their first real contest of the championships to date.

 

BLACK SOX 9 vs. CZECH REPUBLIC 2

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9 July, 2017

The Golden Homes Black Sox had a score to settle when they took on Europe’s best in the form of Czech Republic at the Men’s World Softball Championship in Whitehorse, Canada this afternoon.

The Czech’s who had convincingly beaten New Zealand 6-0 in Vancouver last weekend sent a message when they took the first run of the game in the top of the 2nd when Benda Klein drove in a run off staring Black Sox pitcher Nik Hayes.

New Zealand replied in the bottom of the inning when Czech pitcher Marek Maly walked in two runs before being replaced by Michal Holobradek. Holobradek’s first pitch went untouched to the back of the screen allowing Wayne Laulu to cruise home from third base and advance New Zealand’s lead, 3-1. Up steps captain Nathan Nukunuku who cashed in with a triple to the outfield fence clearing the bases allowing the Black Sox to go ahead 6-1.

The Czech’s picked up a run in the third through a couple of unforced errors by Black Sox catcher Zane Van Lieshout.

Thomas Enoka put the score further from reach in the bottom of the fourth when he drove in brother Ben with a single to centre field.

In form Tyrone Bartorillo hit his fourth dinger of the tournament with a two-run walk off home run to give the Black Sox a 9-2 win ending the game early in the 5th inning.

Hayes threw 5 innings taking 11 strikeouts giving up 2 hits and 2 walks.

 

BLACK SOX 22 vs. TURKEY 0

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8 July, 2017
The Golden Homes Black Sox commenced the Men’s World Softball Championship with an easy 22-0 win over Turkey in 3 innings in Whitehorse, Canada this morning.
Turkey debuting in their first ever men’s world championship were never expected to put up much of fight for the Black Sox who collected 16 hits, including 3 home runs to Tyron Bartorillo and one each to Wayne Laulu, Kallan Compain and Thomas Enoka.
Bartorillo was hot with the bat grabbing 8 RBIs including a grand slam.
Brad Rona playing his 93rd test for New Zealand and Nathan Nukunuku in his 92nd equalled the record for appearances at a WBSC World Championship. Rona and Nukunuku will go down in history along with pitching legend Kevin Herlihy with 6 World Championships to their names.
The game will serve of little use to the Kiwis other than to settle a few pre-tournament nerves as the Black Sox look to win their 7th world title and their first on Canadian soil.
Josh Pettett started in the middle for New Zealand and was replaced by Nik Hayes in the 3rd inning. The two helped to throw a perfect game with 9 strikeouts and giving up no hits.
New Zealands next game is at 12:30pm tomorrow against Czech Republic. The Czech’s will prove a much stronger force given they beat the Black Sox last week in Vancouver for the first time.

 

BLACK SOX FALL TO CANADA

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4 July, 2017

The Golden Homes Black Sox concluded their World Championship build up tour of British Columbia with a heavy 10-3 loss to Canada in the semi-final of the Bob Law Memorial Tournament this morning.

The Kiwis were up 2-1 heading into the bottom of the third over the current world champs when the Canadian bats fired amassing 5 runs off Black Sox pitchers Nik Hayes and Campbell Gibson.

Ben Enoka pegged one back in the 5th with a solo homerun which only seemed to aggravate the Canadians as they replied with 4 of their own run-ruling New Zealand and knocking the Black Sox out of the tournament.

Canadian Blake Hunter went 2-2 with a walk, and a total of 5 RBIs including a huge 3-run homerun for Canada.
2015 world championship gold medallist Sean Cleary got the win for Canada while starting pitcher Nik Hayes took the loss for the Black Sox. Campbell Gibson relieved Hayes for 1.1 innings.

Canada will now play Team USA in the final of the Bob Law Memorial Vancouver Challenge.

The Black Sox will now take a few days to rest and regroup before heading to Whitehorse for the World Championships.

 

GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP CALENDAR

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22 May, 2017

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
						17th June
						Depart New Zealand Arrive in Vancouver
18th	19th	20th	21st	22nd	23rd	24th
Rest and Recovery	Rest and Recovery	Training	Exhibition Games x 2 in Vancouver vs Lomas (3-0 W) Iscore here & Giants (7-0 W) Iscore here	Training	Vancouver Island 1 x game vs Nanaimo All Stars 9-1 W Iscore here	Vancouver Island 2 x games vs Sooke Loggers G1 - 3-2 W Iscore here G2 - 4-1 W Iscore here
25th	26th	27th	28th	29th	30th	01st July
Travel to Victoria 2 x games vs Sooke Loggers G1 - 10-0 W Iscore here G2 - 4-0 W Iscore here	Rest and Recovery in Victoria	Arrive in Vancouver	Exhibition Games x 2 vs Richmond All Stars - Steveston Park, Richmond G1 - 15-0 W G2 - 4-3 W Iscore here	Training	Bob Law Memorial Tournament x 1 game Results	Bob Law Memorial Tournament x 3 games Results
02nd	03rd	04th	05th	06th	07th	08th
Bob Law Memorial Tournament x 2 games Results	Rest and Recovery	Arrive Whitehorse Yukon	Exhibition Game vs International Team		WBSC Starts
09th	10th	11th	12th	13th	14th	15th
16th	17th
	Depart Whitehorse Yukon

Download full schedule here
 

THE 2017 NEW ZEALAND BLACK SOX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SQUAD

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22 May, 2017

Pitchers: Campbell Gibson (Auckland), Karl Gollan (USA), Nik Hayes (Hutt Valley), Josh Pettett (Wellington)
Catchers: Kallan Compain (Auckland), Zane van Lieshout (Auckland)

Infielders: Tyron Bartorillo (Canterbury), Cole Evans (Auckland), Joel Evans (Hutt Valley), Josh Harbrow (Canterbury), Nathan Nukunuku (Auckland, captain), Brad Rona (North Harbour)

Outfielders/Designated Players: Ben Enoka (Auckland), Campbell Enoka (Auckland), Thomas Enoka (Auckland, vice captain), Isaac Fletcher (Auckland), Wayne Laulu (Wellington)

Head coach: Mark Sorenson (Hutt Valley)
Assistant coach: Darryl Marino (Hutt Valley)
Pitching coach: Jim Wana (Wellington)
Manager: Jayden Moore (Canterbury)

LEADERS BACK FOR BLACK SOX WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SQUAD

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28 Mar, 2017

Two of New Zealand's most decorated softballers will return to the Golden Homes New Zealand Black Sox squad for the 2017 world championships in Canada.

Captain Nathan Nukunuku and veteran infielder Brad Rona, who both boast three world championships gold medals, will be attending their sixth world series since 2000 at Whitehorse in Yukon from July 7-16.

Nukunuku, 36, was unavailable for the Black Sox during the recent domestic season due to work commitments.

Rona, a 40-year-old power hitter, has not played for New Zealand since the 2015 world championships but has earned selection after compelling club and representative form.

Head coach Mark Sorenson, who played with Nukunuku and Rona on the Black Sox's 2000 and 2004 world champion teams, is delighted to have his two former team-mates back.
Sorenson said Nukunuku was “world class''.“He sets high standards and he's a leader who inspires the guys around him.

“Thomas Enoka did a good job as captain on our tour of Argentina last year and at the Challenge Cup tournament here in February, and he will be the leader of the future, but the world series is a completely different situation and it will be great to have someone of Nathan's experience there.''
Sorenson said Rona – the top batter at March's national inter-club tournament – was always on the Black Sox's radar for 2017.

“He was the MVP at the ISC tournament in North America last year, the top club tournament in the world.

“We felt he could play a role for us as a backup first baseman, designated player or pinch hitter.
“We could see him coming off the bench in a key situation and doing the job for us. He's got global respect from opposition pitchers and if Brad's in the dugout or in the on-deck circle, they may pitch completely differently to the guy at the plate.''

Four pitchers

The Black Sox pitching staff will feature two world championships rookies – Auckland pitcher Campbell Gibson and Wellington's Josh Pettett.
Pettett proved his class in pitching the Black Sox to victory over Argentina in the Challenge Cup tournament in Auckland in February.

Gibson, who has toured with the Black Sox before, was the top pitcher in the Auckland club season and hurled Howick into the top-eight section at the national interclub for the first time.
“Campbell's got a really good drop ball and has the ability to hit spots at a high percentage,'' Sorenson said.

The pitching staff will also include Hutt Valley's Nik Hayes, who won a gold medal at Auckland in 2013, and United States-based left-hander Karl Gollan.
Gollan, a utility on the 2004 gold medal winning team, has not played in New Zealand for several seasons, but Sorenson sounded him out at the ISC tournament in Davenport, Iowa last year.
“He was extremely passionate about playing for the Black Sox.''

Gollan has earned selection over 2013 world champion pitcher Penese Iosefo (Canterbury), experienced Aucklanders Bayley Hoani and Heinie Shannon, and promising prospects Daniel Chapman (Auckland) and Ethan Johnston (Canterbury).

Sorenson said Gollan, who is in his mid-30s, offered something different to the Black Sox.
“We've got three big, hard throwing right handed pitchers, but Karl's provides us with a left-handed option. He's got the ability to hit the corners and has a good change-up.

“He's probably not going to start games, but we can use him in relief and he offers us another stick because he's still a very good hitter.''

 

17-MAN SQUAD NAMED FOR TAB CHALLENGE CUP 

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26 Jan, 2017

Golden Homes Black Sox Head Coach Mark Sorenson has named a 17 man squad to compete in the inaugural TAB Challenge Cup commencing next month.
 
The side is again a youthful one but one that will offer both speed and power. A number of debutants from last Novembers Argentinian tour have been renamed along with Auckland based Alfonz Oveinikovas who will make his first appearance in the black jersey. 
 
The team features the naming of the 3 Enoka brothers, Thomas, Ben and Campbell with Thomas once again being named captain.
 
Rising star Cole Evans returns to the team after a brief stint playing baseball in the Canadian, British Columbia Premier League. Evans who made the league All Star team is a welcome return and will provide further depth to the infield and hitting line-up.
 
Outfielder Jerome Haretuku comes back into the fold after a 4 year absence. Haretuku a non-playing member of the 2013 Black Sox World Championship team had taken time out to complete his education commitments, notably in Europe.
 
All 35 games of the TAB Challenge Cup will be broadcasted live on SKY Sports.
 
 
The Softball New Zealand President Nicky Sherriff proudly announces the New Zealand Golden Homes Black Sox Team to compete in the TAB Challenge Cup, 8-12 Feb, AWF Sports Stadium, Albany.
 
Pitchers
Josh Pettett - Wellington
Nik Hayes - Hutt Valley
Penese Iosefo – Canterbury
 
Catchers
Zane Van Leishout - Auckland
Cory Timu - Hutt Valley
 
Infielders
Tyron Bartorillo - Canterbury
Thomas Enoka - Auckland (Captain)
Cole Evans - Auckland
Joel Evans - Hutt Valley
Isaac Fletcher - Auckland
Josh Harbrow – Canterbury
 
Outfielders
Ben Enoka - Auckland
Campbell Enoka - Auckland
Jovaan Hanley - Wellington
Wayne Laulu - Wellington
Jerome Haretuku - Auckland
Alfonz Oveinikovas – Auckland
 
Management
Mark Sorenson - Head Coach
Darryl Marino - Assistant Coach
Jim Wana - Pitching Coach
Jayden Moore - Manager
Guy Mothersole - Head Trainer
Paul Aitu - Medical Lead
James Frisby - Video Analyst
Ian Ditfort - Scorer
 
Tickets for the event are now available to the public and can be purchased online via iticket.


ARGENTINA 7 - GOLDEN HOME BLACK SOX 1 - FINAL

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21 Nov, 2016

Campbell Enoka tripled and scored in the second to open the scoring for the Black Sox. In the fourth, an RBI double by Bruno Motroni followed by an RBI single by Juan Cruz Zara put Argentina out in front 2-1.

Nik Hayes went 5 inn + 1 batter for NZ before being replaced by Josh Pettett. Following an error and a walk, Manuel Godoy hit a 2-run single. Motroni made it 5-1 with an RBI ground out and Zara's second RBI single made it 6-1.

Argentina added an unearned run in the bottom of the 6th. Max Montero started and pitched 3 innings for Argentina. Huemul Mata came on in the 4th and held the Black Sox scoreless for the win in relief.

ARGENTINA 2 - GOLDEN HOME BLACK SOX 0  

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21 Nov, 2016

In front of a very vocal home crowd Argentina capitalised on an error in the 8th inning to score 2 runs which proved to be enough and secure top seed for tomorrow's play offs.

We now play Parana All Stars in the 2 v 3 game with winner going straight to final. Argentina will play Brazil in the 1 v 4 game after Brazil upset Czech Republic earlier today.

A lot of good learnings to come from tonight's game, we had two chances in the first inning with loaded bases and agin in the seventh inning however strike outs proved costly.

Mark emphasised the importance of moving the ball and applying the pressure when we get these opportunities.

12:30am now time for dinner before we do it again tomorrow. 

BLACK SOX 5 - PARANA ALL STARS 3

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19 Nov, 2016


Joel Evans bat proved the difference as the boys beat Parana All Stars 5-3 in our second game of the International Tournament.
Joel hit a grand slam and a single to collect all 5 rbi's for the team with Penese Iosefo going the distance on the mound.
The team collected 8 hits with Cory Timu picking up two and Tyron Bartorillo & Josh Harbrow also adding to the tally.

Line up for the game was;
Penese Iosefo - P
Cory Timu - C
Thomas Enoka - 1st
Joel Evans - 2nd
Josh Harbrow - 3rd
Tyron Bartorillo- SS
Kallan Compain - LF
Campbell Enoka - CF
Connor Peden - RF

Tomorrow we play at 4pm & 9pm

Live Stats BSX vs Parana All Stars

BLACK SOX 4 - DON BOSCO 2

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18 Nov, 2016

The team has wrapped up its second phase of the Argentine tour with a 4-2 win over national club champions Don Bosco.

Nik Hayes went all 7 innings giving up 2 runs in the second inning which once again forced the team to come from behind.

Hohepa Monk reached base on an error and was scored following a hard line drive from Cory Timu.
In the 4th inning the team took control of the game with a home run from Jovaan Hanley which also scored Josh Harbrow and Isaac Fletcher.

With the international tournament starting tomorrow focus has to be on getting a good start with the bat and reducing some of the mental errors in the field.

Brazil first up at 11am.

 

BLACK SOX - 7 CAE - 2

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16 Nov, 2016

Once again the boys got off to a slow start giving up 2 runs in the first inning with starting pitcher Jovaan Hanley struggling to find his rhythm early in the scorching afternoon heat.

Jovaan then bounced back to shut the local club side hitters down whilst the Black Sox bats woke up in the 3rd inning with the team rallying to score 3 runs.

Another 4 runs scored in the 4th inning courtesy of hits to Kallan Compain, Joel Evans, Josh Harbrow and a towering home run from Hohepa Monk.

Joel Evans picked up two hits & two walks while Kallan Compain had two hits from three at bats.

Tomorrow night the team plays National Club Champions Don Bosco.

Live Stats BSX vs CAE

 

BLACK SOX - 8 ARGENTINA SELECTION- 6

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14 Nov, 2016

The team has finished the first section of the Argentina tour with a come from behind victory over Argentina Selection 8-6.
After trailing 0-4 after 4 innings the team got the bats going with hits to Josh Harbrow, Hohepa Monk and Isaac Fletcher helped level the scores at 4 a piece.
Two more runs were added with Thomas Enoka hitting to score his younger brother Campbell. Thomas then scored on a sac fly from Jovaan Hanley.
In the sixth innings Connor Peden singled and then Zane Van Lieshout hit the teams first home run of the tour with a massive bomb over left field.

BLACK SOX - 6 ARGENTINA 3

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14 Nov, 2016

Firstly - thanks to everyone back in NZ who called to check on our families whilst we are here in Argentina, following this mornings Earthquake in NZ.
The team responded to coach Sorenson's request and out hit Argentina 11 to 4 in a 6-3 eight inning tiebreaker win.
Connor Peden , Hohepa Monk, Josh Harbrow, Campbell Enoka all collected two hits a piece off the pitching of Mata & Montero.
Penese went 4 innings giving up 4 hits and three runs and was replaced by Josh Pettett who gave no hits took 5 strike outs.
BSX Manager, Jayden Moore
Live Stats BSX vs Argentina

ARGENTINA 3 - BLACK SOX 0

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13 Nov, 2016

A tough day at the office as the boys drop their second of the day to Argentina 3-0.
Jovaan Hanley pitched all 7 innings doing a solid effort giving up 7 hits one of which was a two run shot to Huemul Mata.
Down 1-0 Jovaan Hanley hit a hard line drive down 3rd base to the fence only for the umpire to rule it a foul ball when everyone in the ballpark had a different opinion. With a runner on 1st base this could have given the boys some momentum.
Taking to many strikes and needing to be more aggressive is the message from Coach Sorenson as we aim to learn from today's losses and move forward to tomorrow where we play the same two teams.

With the second game finishing well after midnight many of these young chargers are learning about life on the road with the Black Sox and the standard required to compete internationally.

Line Up for Argentina game was:
Jovaan Hanley - P
Zane Van Lieshout - C
Isaac Fletcher - 1st
Thomas Enoka - 2nd
Joel Evans - 3rd
Tyron Bartorillo - SS
Connor Peden - LF
Campbell Enoka - CF
Wayne Laulu - RF

BSX Manager, Jayden Moore
Live Stats BSX vs Argentina
 

BLACK SOX LOSE TO ARGENTINA SELECTION

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13 Nov, 2016

In a marathon 3.5 hour game in 37 degree heat the team struggled to get going and suffered a 2-1 eighth inning tiebreaker loss.
Nik Hayes started and went 4 innings and was then replaced by Bayley Hoani with the score locked at one a piece.
The team only managed 4 hits and left 5 runners on base however gave the opposition to many chances and never took control of the game.
Campbell Enoka again put his hand up again with quality at bats and solid defence.
Not much else to say, Argentina tonight at 10pm.
BSX Manager, Jayden Moore

BLACK SOX vs ARGENTINA SELECTION

LINE UP
Nik Hayes - P
Cory Timu - C
Isaac Fletcher - 1st
Thomas Enoka - 2nd
Josh Harbrow - 3rd
Joel Evans - SS
Kallan Compain - LF
Campbell Enoka - CF
Connor Peden - RF
Wayne Laulu - DP

Live Stats BSX vs Parana All Stars

RAEMAKI OUT OF ARGENTINIAN TOUR

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4 Nov, 2016

Jerome Raemaki has failed a medical clearance and will not take part in the Golden Homes Black Sox tour of Argentina. A torn ACL ligament will mean Raemaki will not assemble with the team before they depart for their 13 day tour on the 9th of November.
 
Raemaki’s injury will open the door for Auckland first baseman, Isaac Fletcher. Fletcher will make his first appearance for the Black Sox, a result of commitment and hard work during the winter months.

GAME SCHEDULE (IN NZ TIMES)- TOUR OF ARGENTINA

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Time (NZ)		Matchup	Win/Loss
Fixture Week 1
Nov 11	12:30 PM	New Zealand vs Czech Republic
Nov 12	8:00 AM	New Zealand vs Paraná
Nov 12	1:30 PM	New Zealand vs Argentina
Nov 13	10:30 AM	New Zealand vs Paraná
Nov 13	1:00 PM	New Zealand vs Argentina
Fixture Week 2
Nov 17	10:30 AM	New Zealand vs Paraná
Nov 18	8:00 AM	New Zealand vs Czech Republic
Nov 18	1:30 PM	New Zealand vs Argentina

BLACK SOX SQUAD FOR GISBORNE TRAINING CAMP ANNOUNCED

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31 Aug, 2016

Golden Homes Black Sox management have named 23 athletes to attend next month’s training camp in Gisborne. The camp will be the second time the team has been together since the team won silver at the World Championships in Canada 13 months ago.

Black Sox Manager Jayden Moore says "apart from the excitement of holding a training camp in Gisborne, which is a first for the Black Sox, bringing our National Squad together on this occasion will mark a significant step in our ascend up the mountain towards the World Championships in Whitehorse, Canada next July. For the past 8 months we have placed a strong focus on strength & conditioning while the four days we spend together in Gisborne will see us conduct fitness testing, softball specific training, team building activities and community engagement. All of this provides a fantastic opportunity for our athletes to put their best foot forward in front of the coaching staff to be included in the 17 man squad to tour Argentina in November".

Softball New Zealand are delighted to be able to coordinate the Black Sox camp in an area that has taken quantum leaps in developing softball over the last five years. “It is very satisfying to support Tairawhiti Softball Association in this manner. Tairawhiti is an Association leading by example not only on the diamond but off the diamond through volunteer and development programs. Part of their success is due to a strong community focus and a close working with Sport Gisborne” says SNZ CEO, Tony Giles.

Tairawhiti Softball Association President Walton Walker says “the region is super excited about the up-coming visit of the Black Sox team to Gisborne. With the huge growth of softball in the region it will be a great start to the new season, a great workout for the new softball diamond but most importantly a great way to showcase the sport of softball with the most successful men’s softball team in the world”.

The Golden Homes Black Sox squad to meet in Gisborne 22-25th, September is: Hohepa Monk (North Harbour), Bayley Hoani-Pearson, Thomas Enoka Connor Peden, Jerome Haretuku, Ben Enoka*, Alfonz Oveinikovas*, Matt Oxley, Zane Van Lieshout, Kallan Compain, Eruera Drague, Campbell Enoka (Auckland), Nik Hayes, Cory Timu, Joel Evans (Hutt Valley), Josh Pettett, Jovaan Hanley, Wayne Laulu, Jerome Raemaki (Wellington), Penese Iosefo, Joshua Harbrow, Tyron Bartorillo, Ihaka Davis (Canterbury). * = unavailable due to playing commitments in Europe.

Team Management
Mark Sorenson (Head Coach), Darryl Marino (Assistant Coach), Jim Wana (Battery Coach), Jayden Moore (Manager), Carl Franklin (Selector), Guy Mothersole (Lead Strength & Conditioning), Paul Aitu (Physio), John Quinn (Mental Skills), Amrit John / James Frisby (Video Analysts)

Frisby named as Black Sox Video Analysis
Jamie Frisby will join the Black Sox Management team as the new video analysis technician. Frisby a long-time member of the Parklands Christchurch United Devils and Canterbury Red Sox team will join the Black Sox as the teams builds towards the ultimate goal of a seventh world title.
“After a long playing career it is often the body that gives up before the brain. I felt it wasn’t time to walk away completely so undertook the role of Assistant Coach with the Canterbury Red Sox. After a few enjoyable seasons involved with that aspect of the game, the Black Sox analyst role is giving me the opportunity to contribute to something I have held in such high regard for a long time” says Frisby.

 

THREE ENOKA BROTHERS MAKE BLACK SOX TRAINING SQUAD

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21 Dec, 2015

Three Auckland brothers are in line to play for the Black Sox after being named in the national men's softball training squad.
Established outfielders Ben and Thomas Enoka have been joined by younger brother, Campbell, a former Junior Black Sox representative for a training camp in Auckland in January.
Ben Enoka has represented the Black Sox at three world championships, while Thomas made his debut at the 2015 tournament after playing for Samoa in 2013.
If Campbell Enoka, also an outfielder, can make the step up, it could be the first time three brothers have played on a Black Sox squad simultaneously.
Black Sox great Thomas Makea and his brothers Fabian and Campbell have all represented New Zealand, but never at the same time.
The 26-man squad features the return of former Black Sox pitcher Penese Iosefo.
The Canterbury hurler was part of the 2013 gold medal winning team, but stepped down from representative softball last year and played senior club rugby last winter.
‘‘It’s nice to have Penese back, he’s a talented athlete who’s been part of the national programme for some years, Black Sox head coach Mark Sorenson said. ‘‘I first met him when he was part of my under-19 squad. I’ve coached him before and like the talent he brings to the diamond.’’
Iosefo is one of six pitchers selected for the January 15 to 17 camp in Auckland.
Marlborough's Kurt Schollum and Hutt Valley's Nik Hayes, who were part of the Black Sox's silver medal winning team at the 2015 world championships in Saskatoon, Canada, return along with ex-Black Sox pitcher Bailey Pearson-Hoani (Auckland) and two former Junior Black Sox under-19 internationals Eruera Drage, a left-hander from Auckland, and Canterbury's Ethan Johnston.
Sorenson said the Black Sox needed to develop their pitcher-catcher batteries and he was "pretty excited at the talent available in the catching department''.
North Harbour’s Conor Peden, the back-up to Stephen Ratu in Saskatoon, joined by Hutt Valley’s Cory Timu and Aucklanders Zane van Lieshout, Matt Oxley and Kallan Compain, a former Samoan international with extensive experience in North America.
"They are really skilled and they're all fairly young,''  Sorenson said. "Over the next few years it will be nice to watch these guys compete against one another.''
Ratu, 40, pitcher Heinie Shannon, 40, and infielder Brad Rona, 39, have been left out of the training squad, but Sorenson said the door was not closed to the trio, who could still be considered for selection for the 2017 world championships in Canada.
"I had a chat with them and said we are looking to the future and we’ve got to get some more talent involved, but if we get to the world series and they are still the best in their position, they will be selected,'' Sorenson said.
Auckland's Isaac Fletcher, who was close to world championship selection, joins the 2015 incumbents in an infield led by captain Nathan Nukunuku.
Campbell Enoka, Auckland teammate Alfons Oveinikovas and Hawke's Bay's Rongo Rapaea are the new faces in the outfield group with Canterbury's Josh Thomson recalled after missing the world championships cut.
Sorenson said the selectors had named a extended squad to ‘‘keep an eye on their progress and to throw a lifeline to those guys by letting them know they are on the radar, and they are doing well.’’
The back-up squad includes Wellington outfielder Campbell Makea, who went to Saskatoon, but is doing a master's degree this year and is unable to commit to the full Black Sox programme.
 
The 26-man Black Sox training squad is: Pitchers: Kurt Schollum (Marlborough), Nik Hayes (Hutt Valley), Penese Iosefo (Canterbury), Bailey Pearson-Hoani (Auckland), Ethan Johnston (Canterbury), Eruera Drage (Auckland). Catchers: Connor Peden (Auckland), Cory Timu (Hutt Valley), Zane van Lieshout, Matt Oxley, Kallan Compain (Auckland).
Infielders: Jerome Raemaki (Wellington), Tyson Byrne, Joel Evans (Hutt Valley), Josh Harbrow (Canterbury), Nathan Nukunuku, Cole Evans, Isaac Fletcher (Auckland).
Outfielders-designated players: Ben Enoka, Thomas Enoka, Campbell Enoka, Alfons Oveinikovas (Auckland), Josh Thomson (Canterbury), Hohepa Monk (North Harbour), Jovaan Hanley, Wayne Laulu (Wellington).  

Extended squad: Pitchers: Blake Radford (North Harbour), Josh Pettett (Wellington), Campbell Gibson (Auckland). Catchers: Ihaka Davis, Antony Stuart (Canterbury). Infielders: Pita Rona (North Harbour), Rhys Evans (Auckland), Dante Matakatea (Wellington).
Outfielders-designated players: Vincent Harris (North Harbour), Jerome Haretuku (Auckland), Campbell Makea (Wellington), Rongo Rapaea  (Hawke’s Bay), Frank Pointon (Canterbury).

MOORE GOLDEN HOMES BLACK SOX MANAGER

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19 November 2015

The Golden Homes Black Sox Assistant Manager, Jayden Moore, has been appointed Manager of the team heading into the 2017 World Championship.

Moore has been involved in softball for 33 years and holds many years of managerial experience. He has been the Canterbury Red Sox Manager for seven years and has been involved with the Black Sox since 2007 as a Manager, Assistant Manager and Support Services Coordinator.

Moore has a wealth of knowledge of the Black Sox culture and environment. He has attended eleven national and international tours with the side, including three world championships. "I'm confident in my ability and feel the time is now right for me to step up", says Moore. 

"I find it is often important to be the quiet guy in the background, solving problems and potential conflicts before anyone notices them so the players and coaches are able to concentrate on what they do best." 

His exceptional logistical skills are accompanied with a great understanding of the game and the various situations faced by both players and coaches. Moore will be instrumental in assisting the Black Sox on their journey to regain the world title.
 
Canterbury-based coach, Carl Tuinenga, has been appointed Head Coach of the New Zealand Girls Emerging Sox team.
Tuinenga has coached representative softball for over ten years and has been the Canterbury Red Hawks Head Coach since 2011.

He has been the coach of the New Zealand Development Girls since 2013 and has a focus of helping young players further their softball careers. "With the assistance of a strong management team it is my goal to introduce these players to international softball and assist in building them into future national players."

Tuinenga will look to work closely with the Junior White Sox management to provide a solid platform for the future.

BSX MANAGER REPORT

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• Report - Wed 10 June 2015

• Report - Fri 12 June 2015

• Report - Sat 13 June 2015

• Report - Sun 14 June 2015

• Report - Wed 17 June 2015

• Report - Sat 20 June 2015

• Report - Sun 21 June 2015

• Report - Fri 26 June 2015 (LATEST)

24 June 2015

Iscore games from Vancouver courtesy of BSX Scorer Ian Ditfort

• Black Sox v Lomas here

• Black Sox v Petra Hawks here

• Black Sox v CR Brewers here

• Black Sox v Giants here

• Black Sox v Petra Hawks (Final) here

ISCORE GAMES FROM CALGARY

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18 June 2015

Iscore games from Calgary courtesy of BSX Scorer Ian Ditfort


Exhibition games

• Black Sox v Calgary game 1. here

• Black Sox v Calgary game 2 here

Tournament

• Black Sox v Lloyd Dodgers here

• Black Sox v Petra Hawks here

• Black Sox v Calgary here

• Black Sox v Pretty Boys here

• Black Sox v Petra Hawks (Final) here

BLACK SOX COMPLETE FIRST LEG OF CAMPAIGN

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17 June, 2015

The Golden Homes Black Sox have had a successful start in the build-up stage of their pursuit for a seventh world title. The team began the first leg of their journey in Calgary, where they spent time acclimatising, recovering and training.
The Black Sox played two warm-up games against a local side, the Calgary Sox winning both games comfortably 8-0 with an impressive offensive display.  

Notable hitters were Brad Rona, who batted .1000 with three hits, and Thomas Enoka, who hit an automatic homerun in his opening at bat and batted in a total of five RBI’s.

Over the weekend the team competed in the Stampede City Invitational tournament against local club teams from Saskatchewan and Edmonton. The Black Sox raked in a massive 58 runs for and only one against; with the team homerun total now well into double digits. 

The Black Sox retained the title for a second year in a row, defeating the Petro Golden Hawks 4-0 in the final. Nik Hayes was impressive on the mound, where he struck out 13 from 28 batters faced and only allowed four hits.
Joel Evans featured in his first full game since injuring himself in the opening match of the campaign. He put the Black Sox on the board in the fifth inning with an automatic homerun and punched in two RBI’s.

The Black Sox are now into the second leg of their tour, which began with a long drive from Calgary to Kelowna. The side will spend their time training and will play a double header against a local All Stars team.

 

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR OUR BLACK SOX

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10 June, 2015 To WIN a signed jersey by the 2015 Black Sox, go to the SNZ Facebook page: “Like” the competition post and Write a good luck message   The Black Sox will select the winning message and the winner will receive a jersey worn by Black Sox great Eddie Kohlhase. The second best message will receive a Franklin glove with the New Zealand fern embroidered into the leather. Not on Facebook but want to enter and send the team a message? Send your message via email to BSX Team Manager Grant McCarroll - grant.mccarroll25@icloud.com Competition closes 5pm, July 3. ‪#‎BSX7 Update 5 July, 2015 After narrowing down all the good luck messages to 20 and then 2, we now have two winners. Again, thank you very much to all that posted a message of support to the Black Sox.  Winner of the signed New Zealand Black Sox Jersey is Jaimee Muir: "Small country.... HUGE HEART! You guy's have worked so hard to get to this point and even if you don't bring home that win, we are all so proud of you. Coming from a passionate softball whanau we are all backing the mighty Black Sox. You are an inspiration not only to our aspiring players but to a nation of united fans. Softball doesn't have the coverage or popularity that rugby or other sports seem to have but by George you lot are putting us out there. I won't say "do us proud" because we are already very proud. Have fun and enjoy yourselves." Winner of the Franklin Glove with then embroided silver fern is Melanie Ford: "Know that you have a mighty nation behind you as you take the diamond. That fern you wear stands for every New Zealander behind you. May you gloves be safe and your bats mighty. And as a wise man once told his tee-ball team a number of years ago it's done in the defence. Bring it home boys, #7 has a mighty ring to it. Bring it on!!!!!"

 

BSX BEGIN IN THE PURSUIT FOR SEVENTH WORLD TITLE

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8 June, 2015

The Golden Homes Black Sox departed from Auckland yesterday, officially beginning their world championship campaign. Seven will be the magic number for the six-time world champions heading into the 2015 WBSC Men's Softball World Championship in Saskatoon, Canada later this month.

The Black Sox have played in two world championship finals in Saskatoon and lost both. Head coach and Black Sox legend, Mark Sorenson, says that this is not the focus of the team. “We are aware of the history in Saskatoon but are really focused on not getting too far ahead of ourselves.”

Sorenson is pleased with where the team is at going into this month’s world championship. “The preparation has gone really well, the guys have been working hard on their strength and conditioning since the end of the season”, says Sorenson.

“This is going to be an extremely competitive championship and it’s important that we build throughout the event with solid team softball.”

There is plenty of new talent in the side and the style of play could be slightly different to what we have seen from Black Sox teams in the past. “There is a need to manufacture offensive production as a unit”, says Sorenson.

The head coach believes there is no extra pressure put on the team to win back-to-back titles. “We have had success in the past because we have set high standards for ourselves and this event will be no different.”
Despite their quiet New Zealand build-up, the Black Sox have 17 games scheduled in Canada prior to the world championship.

The 2015 WBSC Men's Softball World Championship will be staged from 25 June - 5 July. The Black Sox will face a tough Argentinean side on Opening Day.
Pool A: Argentina, Canada, Czech Republic, Great Britain, Guatemala, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Philippines
Pool B: Australia, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, USA, and Venezuela

AS COLOUR ON BOARD WITH BSX

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27 May, 2016

The Golden Homes Black Sox have added a new sponsor to support them in a Softball World Championship year.

Softball NZ is proud to announce the new partnership with AS Colour. AS Colour provides quality blank apparel including t-shirts, shirts, hooded sweats, jackets, pants, caps, and bags, and have 6 retail locations throughout New Zealand.

Softball NZ CEO, Tony Giles says the new partnership is a great fit for both organisations. “AS Colour and Softball NZ share similar values in that we both strive to be the best in competitive environments. Success comes from a foundation of understanding your brand, great planning, and talent working together. The Black Sox are world leading in these areas and AS Colour want to see talented and innovative people in their garments”, says Giles.

AS Colour NZ Sales Manager, Dan Bycroft is excited about partnering the 6 times World Champion NZ Black Sox. “It’s exciting for the team at AS Colour to be joining together with an organisation like Softball NZ that shares our passion and ambition”.

The NZ Black Sox depart June 7 for the ISF Men’s Softball World Championship, Saskatoon, Canada.  

POOLS- SCHEDULE ANNOUNCED FOR 2015 WBSC MEN'S SOFTBALL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP 

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6 March, 2016

Plant City, FL (USA) -- The World Baseball Softball Confederation today announced the pools and Official Tournament Schedule of the 2015 WBSC Men's Softball World Championship taking place in Saskatoon, Canada from 26 June to 5 July.
 
The fourteenth edition of the men's flagship softball event will showcase a total of 73 games, 56 in a round-robin format, followed by 7 placement games and 10 playoff games.  Nations will be divided into two pools of eight to compete in a challenging round-robin that consists of seven games in seven days, with the top four finishers from each pool advancing to the double page playoff round.
 
Pool A: Argentina, Canada, Czech Republic, Great Britain, Guatemala, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Philippines
Pool B: Australia, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, USA, and Venezuela
 
The participating nations in the WBSC Men's Softball Championship represent a global reach that spans across Asia, Europe, North- and South America, and Oceania.  All 16 participating National Teams will be competing on Opening Day, with action opening on Friday, 26 June at 09:30 local time.
 
Opening ceremonies will begin at 17:30 at the main competition field, which will be followed by Canada meeting Guatemala in front of the home crowd.  The gold medal game will take centre stage on 5 July at 14:30, and will be preceded by the bronze medal match at 11:30.
 
Guatemala will be making their historic men's world championship debut, following their performance at the Pan American Softball Championship held in Paraná, Argentina in November 2014.
New Zealand is aiming to repeat as world champions following their gold medal performance on their home turf in 2013 by defeating Venezuela 4-1; Australia earned the bronze medal.
 
The WBSC has a full list of official events on the calendar that span from June to November which include the Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada, the U12 Baseball World Cup in Tainan, Chinese Taipei, the U19 Women's Softball World Championship in Oklahoma City, USA, the U18 Men's Baseball World Cup at Koshien Stadium in Japan, and the inaugural Premier 12 co-hosted by Japan and Chinese Taipei.

TRAVEL PACKAGES

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SportsLink International is the Official Tour Provider for Softball New Zealand and have put together travel packages for any family and friends looking to attend the Mens Softball World Championships in Saskatoon, Canada in June. Packages include accommodation, tickets, transfers and supporters merchandise, and allows those people to stay, travel and sit together while in Canada when supporting our team.
 
Packages start from just $1290 per person and they can also arrange for individual travellers to share rooms to help keep the costs down. As part of the supporters trip, through their partner travel agency, SportsLink International can also arrange flights and any other additional travel that you may require if extending your trip at the completion of the event.
 
To book the travel package or to get any additional information, please contact Paul Kelly on pk@sportslinkinternational.com.

Click images below for the Travel Package Flyer, Travel Package Details and a Booking Form.

BLK SOX TOUR OF CANADA

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19 June, 2015

The Golden Homes Black Sox two games tonight will be covered live on the ISC network. In order to listen to these games click the hyperlink below.
http://www.meridix.com/everywhere.php?liveid=iscfastpitch

Please note the order of tonight’s games has changed, game one v Mississauga All Stars and Game Two v Toronto Gators.
Game times are 11am and 1pm Thursday, NZ time.

 

 

2013 TRADESTAFF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS FINAL STATS FOR ALL TEAMS

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Final batting stats download here

Final pitching stats download here

N.B. All calculations are done on SNZ Softball scoring standards

 

  

BLACK SOX INTERNAL TOUR ITINERARY

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Nelson 14th November

- 12.00pm – 12.45pm: Clifton Tce School

- 1.15pm – 2.15pm: Waimea College Softball

- 1.15pm – 2.15pm: Nelson College Softball

- 3.15pm: Meet the kids / fans (Saxton Field)

- 5.30pm: Exhibition Game against Upper South Island Selection
 

Nelson 15th November

10.00am – 11.00am: Broadgreen Intermediate Softball

11.15am – 12.15pm: Nelson Intermediate Softball

12.30pm – 1.30pm: Waimea Intermediate Softball

5.30pm: Exhibition Game against Nelson Softball Selection
 

Wellington 16th November

- WSA 75th Dinner
 

Wellington 17th November

- Black Sox arrive to interact with players and coaches etc. Signed posters and balls to give away.

- 1.00pm: Black Sox vs. local selection

- 3.15pm: Celebrity game slow pitch

Sandra Edge (silver ferns), Ken Laban (rugby league, TV) , Dave Smart (classic hits) Mark Sorenson (softball) Kate Horan (para olympics & world champion) Robyn Wong  (Olympics & commonwealth games mountain biker) Glen Roff (Softball NZ) Richard Watt (Hurricanes) Phil Gibbons (CEO Sport Wgtn) Chris Middleton (Waikato Rugby Lock) Earl Va’a (Western Samoan WC Rugby) T.J Perenara (Hurricanes) Mark Reddish (Hurricanes) Phil Gibbons (CEO Sport Wgtn) Katrina Grant (Pulse) Ross Bond (Rugby Commentator) 

- 4.15pm: Cake cutting and speeches etc

- 5.00pm: Black Sox vs. local selection
 

Hastings 18th November

- 4.00pm: Black Sox vs. Hawkes Bay NFC team

- 6.00pm: Black Sox vs. Hawkes Bay NFC team
 

Hastings 19th November

- 8.00am: Mayoral reception hosted by Lawrence Yule, Hastings District Council Mayor

- 9.30am – 10.45am: Coaching Clinics at Akina Park for Primary School
 

North Shore 19th November

Schools Festival Day

- Launch of schools programme, Junior World Softball Championships and SNZ schools resources, and delivery of fun activities
 

North Shore 20th November

- AM: Attend schools involved in KiwiSport initiatives

- PM: Exhibition match Black Sox v local selection

North Shore 21st November

Black Sox Activity

- AM: Jump off the sky tower/bungy jump, media opportunity

Black Sox Team: Nik Hayes, Arron Neemia, Campbell Makea, Tyrone Bartorillo, Tyson Byrne, Dan Tarpari, Jerome Haretuku, Ben Enoka, Wayne Laulu, Rhys Casley. Additional local Black Sox players will be included at various locations on the tour.

 

BLACK SOX INTERNAL TOUR READY TO COMMERCE

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12 Nov, 2012

Taking it easy will be the last thing on the minds of the Black Sox players selected for the “Get on the Bus” road trip. The tour begins on in Nelson and then travels to Wellington before heading to the Hawke’s Bay . The last leg of the trip is at the world championship venue
 
For the tour Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase has opted to include several younger members of his squad with world championship hopeful Nick Hayes one who will be wanting to make the most of his chances after his late call-up to the Black Sox for their North American tour earlier this year. Hayes will be sharing the pitching duties during the tour with another world championship rookie Penese Iosefa.
 
On the bus but expected to take a limited role in the road trip is Black Sox captain Rhys Casley, who  underwent shoulder surgery last week.

The tour starts in Nelson on Wednesday and then two days later the side arrives in Wellington where they will be based for the weekend and take part in a number of activities planned as part of that association’s 75^th jubilee celebrations.  In Wellington the side will play against a Wellington Selection team which will include a number of Black Sox squad members.
 
The next stop for the tourists is in Hawke’s Bay where they will on Sunday play two games and then on Monday visit a number of schools in the area.
 
The team is then scheduled to arrive in North Shore on November 20 and will visit a number of schools before playing games, including an evening match at the world championship venue, Rosedale Park.
 
The following day the players will be involved in a number of training and coaching sessions at schools on the North Shore.

 

BLACK SOX INTERNAL TOUR

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26 Sep, 2012

Nelson will be the starting point of the Black Sox Internal Tour as the team heads toward next year’s world softball championships which will be held at Rosedale Park on the North Shore. The side, ranked number two in the world after relinquishing their crown to Australia at the 2009 tournament, begin their trek in Nelson when they assemble there on November 13. The following day they will play games giving local supporters an opportunity to come and watch them. The trek north includes a two day stop in Nelson from November 14-15 where the team will play games and visit a number of schools in that area. On November 16 the players will be in Wellington and will be involved in that Association’s 75th jubilee celebration which includes a dinner on that evening at which coach Eddie Kohlhase is a guest speaker. On the Saturday the team will make visits to venues involving junior games and then will play two games, including an evening match-up.

On Sunday the team head to Hawke’s Bay and will again play two games and the following day visit schools in the region.

The team is then scheduled to arrive in North Shore on November 20 and will visit schools in the region before playing games, including one in the evening.

The following day the players will conduct a number of training and coaching sessions at a number of schools on the North Shore before the players return to their home base.

For the team it is important that they reach out to their fan base ahead of next year’s world championship with the players looking at regaining their crown. It is the first time since 1996 tournament that the side will have gone into the world championship as the number 2 team in the competition. The team of 1996 won that tournament and then went on to win the events in 2000 and 2004, which was in Christchurch, before Australia beat them at the 2009 event in Saskatoon, Canada.
 
More information regarding the events and activities will be released shortly.

Get on the Bus NZ
Get on the Bus NZ and support your team bring home gold in North Harbour. The team needs your support as it hunts its sixth world crown on New Zealand soil.

2024 BLACK SOX SQUAD ANNOUNCED

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BLACK SOX TEAM ANNOUNCED

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Search for Black Sox

13 May

Coach Softball New Zealand has begun the search for its next world champion Black Sox coach.

After leading the national men’s team to victory at the ISF world softball title at Rosedale Park in March, incumbent Eddie Kohlhase indicated he would not be back for a third tournament at the helm. After a couple of months to reflect on that decision, he’s opted to stand by it.

“Eddie has been an incredible asset to the game of softball and the Black Sox in particular, firstly as a player, then an assistant coach and, most recently, as head coach,” says Softball New Zealand general manager Dane Dougan. “We certainly hope to retain his services in the high performance field going forward, but we now face the challenge of finding a suitable replacement for our flagship team.”

With the world championship cycle now shortened to every two years, the team must now begin a build-up towards defending their crown at Saskatoon, Canada, in 2015. The Black Sox have now won four of the last five world titles, with the last three coaches – Kohlhase (2013), Don Tricker (2000, 2004) and Mike Walsh (1996) – all successful. But New Zealand have found Saskatoon a particularly unhappy hunting ground – they finished runners-up to the United States there in 1988 and Australia in 2009. Applications close on May 24 and Softball New Zealand hope to announce a new coach by mid-June.

 

2013 Tradestaff World Championships Final Stats for all Teams

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Final batting stats download here

Final pitching stats download here

N.B. All calculations are done on SNZ Softball scoring standards

 

"Captain Courageous" Casley leads Black Sox to sixth world title

Mens World Championships – Day 7 Preview

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Sox Start on a Winning note

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2nd March

Veteran Jarrad Martin hit a lead-off home run in a big second innings to give New Zealand the start they needed at the Tradestaff ISF World Softball Championships, dispatching Mexico 5-0 at Auckland's Rosedale Park.

After Tyson Byrne scored in the first at-bat, Martin (40), in his fifth world tournament, cleared the leftfield fence to spark a three-run innings that gave the Black Sox a 4-0 lead. Daniel Milne and Tyron Bartorillo also crossed home plate, and Bartorillo completed the scoring in the fourth innings.

Leftie Heinie Shannon opened the pitching with eight strikeouts and four hits, and in his world championship debut, Nik Hayes pitched 2 1/3 hitless innings, also with eight strikeouts.

Coach Eddie Kohlhase was very pleased with the first-up victory, particularly holding the Central Americans scoreless.

Any time you can do that the world championships is an achievement, he said. Both Heinie and Nick were quite phenomenal ­ I think Nik was a bit of an unknown proposition for them, but we need to keep his feet on the ground and keep our feet on the ground.

Kohlhase also praised his vets Martin and Thomas Makea, who subbed on in rightfield to make a spectacular back-pedalling catch and hit a stand-up double in the seventh innings.

After entering the tournament under an injury cloud, captain Rhys Casley also made a surprise appearance at second base in the third innings. Even Kohlhase had not planned on testing his skipper's dodgy shoulder in the
field so soon.

Tyson suffered a concussion sliding into third base and we needed a bit of a re-shuffle, said the coach. It was good to see Rhys out there and he felt really good, so that's another positive to come out of an unfortunate situation.

The Black Sox had shown some patchy lead-up form to the tournament, but looked assured against tricky opponents.

I think the expectation hit home to this team over the last month or so, observed infielder Nathan Nukunuku, who joined the team for his fourth world event just this week to cover for Casley's injury.

When you haven't been through that before, it can be a bit of a mind job, so this was a big step for them.

In other games today, Samoa beat Great Britain 2-0, Colombia defeated the Philippines 4-2, Czech Republic got up over Indonesia 10-3, Japan blitzed Netherlands 7-0, Venezuela were too good for South Africa 6-0, Canada
edged Argentina 2-1 in two extra innings and defending champions Australia were ominous in trouncing the United States 6-0.

The Black Sox face Colombia at 2.30pm

NZ Black Sox 5 (Tyron Bartorillo 2, Tyson Byrne, Jarrad Martin, Daniel Milne) Mexico 0

 
 

NZ Black Sox Media Guide

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1st March

NZ Black Sox 2013 Tradestaff World Softball Championship Media Guide Download here

 
 

Milne leaves park for Black Sox

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27 Feb

Black Sox outfielder Daniel Milne hit a three-run homer in the fourth innings to highlight a 9-0 win in five innings over South Africa.

In their final hit-out before the start of the Tradestaff ISF World Softball Championship in Auckland on Friday, the NZ men were never threatened, registering two runs in their opening turn at bat.

With pitcher Penese Iosefo showing good control from the start, the South Africans were never able to mount a challenge and that trend continued when Jeremy Manley relieved his team-mate in the fourth innings.

The run spree was a welcome show of form from the Kiwi batters, as they prepare for the opening game of their world title bid against Mexico, 7.30pm Friday.

The Black Sox will train tomorrow, schedule to be finalised later tonight.


 

Czech-Mate

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27 Feb

A home run from catcher Aaron Stroman-Neemia catapulted the Black Sox to a 4-3 victory over the Czech Republic in one of their final hit-outs before the Tradestaff ISF World Softball Championship begins on Friday.

With Heinie Shannon starting at pitcher, the NZ men’s team took a four-run lead at the top of the fourth innings, thanks largely to Stroman-Neemia’s deep hit that sent the ball and the Czech left-fielder over the Simpson Park fence in spectacular fashion.
 
Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase brought on rookie NickHayes to replace Shannon, and then introduced veteran utility Jarrad Martin midway through the fifth innings.

Martin conceded a three-run home run to let the excited Czechs back into the contest, but then closed them out over the final two innings.
 
“Jarrad has become an option for us,” says Kohlhase. “Coming into the rotation, it was very important we give him game time.
 
“He wouldn’t have been happy to give up that home run and neither were we, but it’s a matter of short-term pain, long-term gain. He came back well to finish them off.
 
At this stage, he’s just another option.” Veteran Nathan Nukunuku, recalled to the roster this week, started at second base and immediately impressed with his base-running speed to score one of New Zealand’s runs.
 
“Nathan looked pretty good out there,” says Kohlhase. “He was unlucky to miss out in the first place and has taken this opportunity with both hands.”
 
In fact, that was the theme of the day – the ability to seize chances when they occur. Kohlhase feels his team is creating opportunities, but still needs to get better at capitalising on them before the world tournament.
 
They have one more chance to hone that mentality, when they take on South Africa at Phyllis St Reserve, Mt Albert, 1pm today.


 

Nukunuku replaces Haretuku

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25 Feb

Two-time world champion Nathan Nukunuku has been called into the Black Sox as a late replacement for the ISF Tradestaff World Softball Championship, starting this week.

Unlucky to miss original selection in December, Nukunuku has been included as injury cover for injured captain Rhys Casley and will replace rookie Jerome Haretuku on the 17-man roster.

Second baseman Casley has been battling for fitness since shoulder surgery late last year and aggravated his injury during last week's Dean Schick Tournament at the Rosedale Park world tournament venue.

While he seems capable of fulfilling his duties with the bat, his ability to operate at 100% in the field is questionable and Nukunuku has been recalled to cover that contingency.

"Rhys is an integral member of this Black Sox side, and is our leader on and off the diamond," says coach Eddie Kohlhase. "It's imperative we continue to work with him before and during the world championship to maximise his contribution on the diamond.

"He can still hit and we plan to use him as required during the tournament, but to cover the possible loss of a specialist infielder, we've added Nathan to the group."

Unfortunately, outfielder Haretuku, in his first world championship campaign, has drawn the short straw to make way for Nukunuku.

"Rhys' injury has changed the dynamic of our team and we were forced to make a difficult decision that would cost someone their place through no fault of their own," says Kohlhase.

"Jerome has worked hard for his chance, and we certainly cannot fault his dedication and contribution to the team. I know he's disappointed, but I also know he's young enough to help us win world titles for a while to come."

The Black Sox spent last week in a remote Northland location and have now re-assembled for the world championship in Auckland. They are scheduled to practice at White Park, Papatoetoe at 5pm today and will play Czech Republic in a warm-up game at Simpson Park Penrose, at 2pm tomorrow.

Kohlhase will be available on teleconference at 2pm today. Please RSVP to Grant Chapman by return email or phone 027 687 5373.


 

Plenty to ponder for Black Sox

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19 Feb

This wasn’t how Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase envisaged his team’s participation at the Dean Schick Tournament ending.
 
Walking off the No 2 diamond at Rosedale Park, having just lost the plate final 5-6 to Auckland club side Ramblers – their second loss to these opponents over the weekend – he could hear the softball fraternity wondering.
 
This was the national team’s third loss in as many days – they also fell to Hutt Valley Dodgers on Saturday to tumble out of tournament contention.
 
“If I was on the sidelines, I’d be thinking things don’t look great too,” admitted Kohlhase. “Three losses to club teams are not what you expect of a national side.
 
“But it really has been a valuable opportunity to learn about ourselves. We’re not going to roll over teams – we’re always going to be in a dogfight.
 
“And we understand now that every team we play against are to going to raise their games because we are the Black Sox.”
 
During their nine-day camp, the players had put in some hard yards, training two – sometimes three – times a day. It’s necessary as part of the build-up to next month’s Tradestaff World Softball Championship, but it doesn’t always allow the players to produce their best on the diamond as well.
 
The pitching rotation is a work in progress and US-based Jeremy Manley – a key part of that line-up – is still working his way back to full fitness after recent surgery.
 
But Kohlhase hoped the critics will lay off his team until they see the finished product.
 
“We really need the softball community of Auckland and New Zealand to get behind us, and I believe we’ll have that support.
 
“This is a great team – most of these guys here have won world titles before and know what it takes to get up for the heavyweight fight.
 
“We just have to tick off this part of our preparation and move on to the next.”
 
The Black Sox have now disbanded for a couple of days, but a due to reconvene on Tuesday, when they’ll head north of Auckland for some “alone time”.
 
The Tradestaff World Softball Championship runs from March 1-10, with New Zealand facing Mexico in their pool opener on Day One.
 
The Black Sox roster is Tyron Bartorillo (Canterbury), Tyson Byrne (Hutt Valley), Rhys Casley (Hutt Valley), Ben Enoka (Auckland), Donny Hale (Auckland), Jerome Haretuku (Auckland), Nic Hayes (Hutt Valley), Penese Iosefo (Canterbury), Wayne Laulu (Wellington), Thomas Makea (Wellington), Jeremy Manley (US), Jarrad Martin (Wellington), Daniel Milne (Canterbury), Brad Rona (North Harbour), Heinie Shannon (Auckland), Patrick Shannon (Auckland), Aaron Stroman-Neemia
(Wellington)


 

Casley confirmed for Black Sox

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12 Feb

Black Sox captain Rhys Casley has been cleared to lead his team into next month's Tradestaff World Softball Championship in Auckland.

With several players selected injured in December, coach Eddie Kohlahse set last weekend as the deadline for them to prove their readiness for the tournament at Rosedale Park and Casley was the last to achieve that goal.

After undergoing shoulder surgery last September, his road back to full fitness has been a slow and worrisome one, but with three weeks until the world event, he's showed he's almost there with performances at the recent Vic Guth and Brother Patrick tournaments.

Playing as a designated hitter for his Dodgers club, Casley was named batter of the tournament at the Guth event last month and was again in action for the national side over the weekend, even taking the field for an innings.

"The ball never came my way, but it was pretty exciting to be back out there," he said. "You forget how much you love the game when you're away from it."

Kohlhase is thrilled to have his skipper confirmed, although there is still some ground to make up before he's operating at 100%. That will be one of the goals for the team during this week's camp in Auckland.

"The shoulder has responded outstandingly, really," says the coach.
"It's a credit to Rhys that he's able to play.

"He hit every game on the weekend and played a bit in the field, so we're really confident."

The entire roster got a good hit-out at the weekend's tournament, winning three games against club opponents and losing a close one to Samoa in their first international outing.

"It was a step up from what we'd faced before and it highlighted some significant work-ons," observed Kohlhase.

"We got behind in the game and key learning was the need to be prepared from the first pitch. We were down 3-0 early and in any international game, that's difficult to come back from."

But Kohlhase took heart from the form of his elder statesman - Jarrad Martin, Thomas Maeka and Brad Rona - and the improved pitch of Hutt Valley hurler Nik Hayes, who produced a one-hit performance for an all-star team against Samoa later in the programme.

"Our senior guys showed they are in great nick and really leading from the front," said Kohlhase. "As a coach, that's all you can ask from them."

The Black Sox will continue their competitive preparation for the world championships with another event - the Dean Schick Tournament at Rosedale Park - this weekend.

Black Sox players and coaches are available to the media through Grant Chapman, via return email or 027 687 5373. They are training at Victoria Park, 7am tomorrow, with another practice scheduled for later in the morning - please RSVP to confirm times.
 

 

Sox chalk one up to experience

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After their first outing as a team, the Black Sox  were left to reflect on lessons (hopefully) learnt during a 1-3 defeat at the hands of an Auckland United All-Star selection.

Tacked on the end of the annual Vic Guth Tournament, the outing was a way for the national team to respect the event’s 50th instalment, as well as squeeze in some much-needed match practice together.

But the scratch combination selected by organisers was always on top of the national side, collecting runs off all three pitchers – Heinie Shannon, Penese Iosefo and Nik Hayes – used over the five innings played.

It could have looked worse on the scoreboard – a fourth run was disallowed, after the base runner failed to tag third on the way home.

But the lessons did not end with the score line. On that same play, Black Sox reserve Nathan Nukunuku slid aggressively into second, taking out short stop Tyson Byrne and clearing the dugouts in the process.

“Nathan paid us the ultimate compliment with his approach,” reflected coach Eddie Kohlhase afterwards. “That’s how teams will play against us at the world championships.

“That was one of the best things we took out of this game – the understanding that we can’t take a backward step.

“In terms of combinations, it was the first time out on the park, we were a little bit rusty, we missed a couple of cut plays and our pitching can only improve.

“My message was you don’t win a world championship on January 28. Our aim is to be ready by March 1.”

Kohlhase took a fairly conservative approach to the encounter, keeping many of his veterans on the sidelines for most of the game. Donny Hale was unavailable, captain Rhys Casley and fourth pitcher Jeremy Manley – both returning from injury – took no part (although Casley led the charge onto the diamond after Nukunuku’s slide), while Thomas Makea was only used as a pinch hitter at the death.

Fatigue also played a part. All the Black Sox roster, including Casley and Manley, had just completed a full weekend of tournament play, and Shannon and Iosefo had just pitched the final, won 4-1 in extra innings by the latter’s Northcote outfit.

“There were a whole lot of guys who had played seven or eight games, but we told them we had to replicate a world tournament, and we just had to get out there and play,” said Kohlhase. “But it was the same for the other team.

“We have to work on our pitching accuracy, our fielding wasn’t too bad and we haven’t even started working on our running game. There were probably one or two situations where we would have done some things differently, but those are good things to work on.”

From a wider perspective, the weekend had been a success for individual team members, as Brad Rona led Northcote to victory with a two-run homer and MVP honours for the tournament.

Casley, still battling back to full fitness after shoulder surgery, was able to swing sufficiently to finish as top batter, averaging 0.538.

That pair, plus Tyrone Bartorillo, Daniel Milne and Ben Enoka, were named on the tournament team.

The Black Sox next assemble to contest the Brother Patrick Tournament in Auckland from 8-10 February.
 

 

Black Sox face All-Stars

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Testing start to Black Sox championship schedule

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23 Jan

The NZ Black Sox will open their bid to regain the world softball title against Mexico on March 1 at Rosedale Park, Auckland.
After losing their crown to Australian four years ago, New Zealand will have home advantage for the Tradestaff ISF World Softball Championship, but face a tough draw that pits them against four-time champions Canada in pool play, along with Japan, Argentina, Philippines, Mexico, Colombia and the Netherlands.
“It’s a very, very demanding draw,” says Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase. “Canada, Japan and Argentina are three of the big powers in world softball.
“It’s a tough draw, not just in terms of qualifying for the quarterfinals, but also building up some powerful momentum going forward. It will be a real test for us.
“It’s a really early and quite exciting challenge.”
Canada have been New Zealand’s traditional rivals at the tournament. Like the Kiwis, they have taken the crown four times, last winning in 1992, when they beat the Black Sox in the final.
But they also lost to the Kiwis at the final stages in 1996 and 2004.  
“They’re always a very tough team to play,” says Kohlhase. “They have powerful pitching – they throw the ball very hard – and like most Canadian sports teams, they try to dominate you physically.”
Japan was the other team New Zealand had to overcome on the way to their 1996-2004 championship “three-peat”. They beat the crafty Asians 2-1 in the 2000 title game at East London, South Africa.
“Their current coach was the pitcher in that final,” says Kohlhase. “They’re a very fast team - Japan are beautiful fielders of the ball and quite electric on the base paths.
“They have a lot of lefties, and have very strong pitching and hitting – they’ll be a real test.”
Argentina are one of the emerging powers in world softball and took out the junior world title at home last year, where New Zealand finished sixth.
“They’re like their rugby teams and soccer teams,” observes Kohlhase. “They’re fantastic at home and if they can just get their game together abroad …
“Argentina are a strong softballing nation. They have a couple of outstanding pitchers on the North American circuit and like Japan, have a lot of lefties.”
Elsewhere in the pool, the Philippines and Netherlands have considerable experience to draw upon at this level, and can be counted on to make the top sides work for their wins, says Kohlhase.
Sixteen teams have been divided into two pools of eight for the championship, with the top four progressing to quarterfinals. The other pool is headed by titleholders Australia and four-time champions the United States.
As hosts, the Black Sox have been allocated the prime time slots each day – 7.30pm during the week and 2.30pm on weekend, from March 1-10.
For further draw information, check out www.softball2013.com.


 

Black Sox name 3 non-travelling reserves

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18 Jan

The Black Sox have added three non-travelling reserves for the ISF World Championships in March.
Currently carrying a squad of 17 players, coach Eddie Kohlhase has named infielder Nathan Nukunuku (Auckland), outfielder Campbell Makea (Wellington) and pitcher Karl Gollan (Auckland) as back-ups.

Veteran Nukunuku was one of the controversial omissions from the original selection, having represented New Zealand since 1997 and attended two previous world tournaments.

Makea was also desperately unlucky to miss out, effectively losing his spot when coaches opted to include a fourth pitcher instead of another outfielder.

Gollan made his first appearance for New Zealand in 2004.

The full Black Sox roster is:
Pitchers – Penese Iosefo (Canterbury), Heinrick Shannon (Auckland), Nik Hayes (Hutt Valley), Jeremy Manley (US)
Catchers – Patrick Shannon (Auckland), Aaron Stroman-Neemia (Wellington)
Infielders – Brad Rona (North Harbour), Rhys Casley (Hutt Valley), Tyson Byrne (Hutt Valley), Tyrone Bartorillo (Canterbury), Daniel Milne (Canterbury)
Outfielders – Jerome Haretuku (Auckland), Ben Enoka (Auckland), Thomas Makea (Wellington), Wayne Laulu (Wellington), Donny Hale (Auckland), Jarrad Martin (Wellington)
Reserves – Nathan Nukunuku (Auckland), Campbell Makea (Wellington), Karl Gollan (Wellington)


 

Enoka tops the Black Sox tests

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16 Jan

Auckland outfielder Ben Enoka is the “fittest” of the world championship-bound Black Sox – but his team-mates are snapping his heels. Last weekend, the New Zealand men’s softball team completed their final round of physical testing before the March world tournament at Auckland’s Rosedale Park. “The boys are definitely trending in the right direction and there were a couple of standout performers,” says Wellington-based strength and conditioning coach Jamie Tout. “We test them against speed, power, core strength, endurance and repeated speed ability. “Ben was the No 1 performer across those disciplines and he’s continued to improve, not just personally, but against the benchmarks that were set.” The tests included standing long jump, the “yo-yo” for intermittent/speed endurance, and pure speed over 10m and 20m. Auckland’s Enoka was best over the sprints, with Auckland outfielder Jerome Haretuku close behind. Hutt Valley infielder Tyson Byrne was next and also recorded the standing long jump. All three excelled in the yo-yo, with Enoka just ahead with a score of over level 19.

“A lot of sports use the yo-yo and to some degree, it’s probably more relevant in others,” says Tout. “In softball, we’re more focused on the speed and power of an athlete, because they’re often only sprinting 10-20 metres at a time, with longer recoveries. “That said, we set our guys a goal to achieve and a lot of them are heading in that direction now. Some went over level 19 for the first time, which is a really great result, but ultimately in softball, you can’t beat speed. Enoka also clocked 1.52s and 2.67s respectively in the speed tests, but had to withstand a determined challenge from Haretuku, who attempted an extra 20m trial in a bid to knock off the champ. “Not much needs to change from here on in,” says Tout. “A lot of guys just need to maintain their level of fitness now – we can only make them so fit. “My job is to get them fit enough so they don’t fatigue to the point that their skills are compromised.”

  
 

Martin brings experience to Black Sox title bid

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15 Jan 2013


Martin brings experience to Black Sox title bid

Black Sox veteran Jarrad Martin knows what it takes to win a world softball title – he’s helped win three.

He also knows what it’s like to lose one and now hopes to learn how to win one back.

That depth of experience – both good and bad – will be the key contribution Martin can make to the current campaign, as the NZ men try to win back the crown they lost to Australia in 2009.

When the Sox line up at Rosedale Park in March, the Taranaki utility, who commutes to play his club softball in Wellington, will join fellow old-timer Thomas Makea at their fifth world tournament.

Two others – Brad Rona and Donny Hale – will attend their fourth and while their physical skills may be waning ever so slightly, their “been there, done that” mentality cannot be replaced.

Coach Eddie Kohlhase has hinted his senior membership will be setting the tone in the dugout and would be upon at key moments.

“You’ve got a lot of guys here who can run and throw and stuff,” said Martin (39), looking around the room at last weekend’s camp in Lower Hutt. “I can do that, but I might be used in different ways.

“In a tournament like this, there will be a couple of instances, where something that I can contribute to the team could be something big. That’s what I’m looking at as part of my role – just making sure the team gets on that train and all the wheels are in sync and going forward together.

“I want to play every game and I’m going to do my darnedest to put my hand up, but if these other guys put their hand up and get the call first, then that’s sport. It doesn’t matter who we have out there – whatever nine, 10, 11 players are injected into the game – I just have to give them my support.”

With pitching coach Chubb Tangaroa absent from the weekend’s camp in the Hutt Valley and Martin still nursing an Achilles niggle back to health, he spent a bit of time conspiring with the hurlers, another role he’s been called on to fill on occasion during his career.

The injury had raised some doubts about Martin’s ability to contest the world series, but he insists he’s trucking along well towards a full recovery.

“Personally, I’m feeling good. If you had asked me six months ago, I was probably neither here nor there, but it’s getting stronger – it’s probably the rest of the body that needs to catch up now.”

And he’s encouraged by what he sees around him.

“It’s been good, for our first weekend together training,” he says. “We’re getting there – it’s just a matter of spending more time with each other, getting used to living out of each other’s pockets and making sure we all have that common vision of hoisting that trophy at the end.”

The Black Sox build-up continues next week, when the pitchers and catchers – the “battery” – travel to Napier next weekend for a mini-camp with Tangaroa.


 

Daniel Milne story...

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30 Dec 2012

UNFINISHED BUSINESS from the last world championships in Saskatoon haunts Canterbury softballer Daniel Milne.
Although he's been playing for New Zealand since 1999 and is a veteran of 51 tests and many other international matches, that was his first world tournament.

After winning the previous three world championships, the Black Sox were ambushed and beaten 5-0 by Australia in the 2009 final. Milne, 34, has been given a chance to help put that right with his selection in the team for the next world series at North Harbour in March.

``I don't like those over the ditch winning, and I had a few sleepless nights after that tournament in '09,'' says Milne, who played left field in the final. ``I woke up in a couple of cold sweats. Hopefully this season we've got the right mix to win --  we've got a good mix with young and old players and good pitchers.''

Milne has been selected as an infielder for the 2013 worlds and expects to be used as second base, first base, short stop, or outfield. ``I like to keep all my bases open,'' he said.

Milne, from an Invercargill softball family where his father and mother were closely involved, began in tee-ball at four. He came to Christchurch as a 17-year-old to improve his softball with the goal of making the Black Sox. Still in his teens, he was selected in 1999 for New Zealand's tour of Australia, and has been in and out of the national team  since -- although he missed selection for two world championships including the 2005 series in Christchurch before earning a trip to Canada in 2009.

Canterbury's victory against the odds at the national provincial championship in Auckland this month may have cemented selection for Milne, Penese Iosefo, and Tyron Bartorillo, but Milne was not really happy with his form.
``I didn't really play that well for Canterbury, but it was definitely nice to win it -- it was my second New Zealand title for Canterbury,'' he said. ``It was a strange one -- I don't know if the team was selected before it.''

Milne's skills have been sharpened by many seasons playing in the US in the off-season. His first in 1997 was for a Wisconsin team, Circle Tap, and then he had five seasons with Spirit, an upstate New York team based in Amsterdam, and five with New York city team Patsy's. He played in national tournament finals in the US and was named in an ISC All-World team.

However, he's unlikely to be seen on the American scene again. He  has a painting business, Milne and Delatour, in partnership with PCU clubmate and former Back Sox player Paul Delatour. EQC work is keeping them very busy -- although Delatour will have to shoulder it alone for a month or so when the worlds are on and in the build up.
You wouldn't find an All Black or Black Cap babyminding while they are playing, but Milne frequently does. He and his wife Nicola, a former Canterbury player who turns out  for PCU's big rivals Albion, have a 5-year-old son, Austin, who is already playing tee-ball.

With his parents' matches often on at the same time at different parks, it's usually dad who babyminds. ``Nine times out of 10 he's with me -- I've got lollies in the dugout,'' he said.


 

Black Sox World Championship Team Head into Camp

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14 Dec 2012

When the Black Sox world championship softball team assemble in Auckland this weekend for the first time, coach Eddie Kohlhase doesn’t expect he’ll need to do too much talking.

Having named the 17 players expected to win back the world title on home turf next March, Kohlhase will look to his veterans to set a tone for the upcoming campaign.

And experience is something this group has plenty of. The roster includes two players – Thomas Makea and Jarrad Martin – who have been to four previous tournaments, while two others – Brad Rona and Donny Hale – have contested three.

All have been part of Black Sox world championship dynasty through the late-90s/ 2000s, but were on deck when they were toppled by archrivals Australia in the 2009 final.“Attending five championships is obviously a great achievement and means they’re fantastic athletes,” says Kohlhase. “It’s a real testament to their durability and the way they conduct themselves.

“These are the guys who will set the culture for our team,” says Kohlhase, “It’ll be the first time some of them will go to a world championships NOT as defending champions, so it’ll be interesting to see what their attitude will be.

“They’ll have roles within the team. They won’t be on the diamond every single game, but they certainly add real experience to the bench and know that international environment.”

This gathering won’t involve too much on-diamond training – it’s more about laying a platform and ensuring everyone, including partners, understand the team culture going forward.

“The selection process has been very difficult and there are obviously some very good players that didn’t make the final selection,” says Kohlhase. “But we’re very happy with the 17 we’ve selected.

“We believe we’ve picked a team to win it. We’ve got a lot of speed and power, and a lot of youth and experience.

“If we can mould that all together with the team operating as one, we’ll be very hard to beat.”

The team assembling in Auckland this weekend is:

Heinie Shannon, Patrick Shannon, Donny Hale, Ben Enoka, Jerome Haretuku (all Auckland), Penese Iosefo, Tyron Bartorillo, Daniel Milne (all Canterbury), captain Rhys Casley, Nick Hayes, Tyson Byrne (all Hutt Valley), Aaron Stroman-Neemia, Wayne Laulu, Thomas Makea, Jarrad Martin (all Wellington), Brad Rona (North Harbour), Jeremy Manley (USA-based).

Coach: Eddie Kohlhase, Assistant coach: Dave Workman, Pitching coach: Chubb Tangaroa, Manager: Carl Gould


 

Black Sox on right track to regain title

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19/11/2012

Coach Eddie Kohlhase believes the Black Sox are on the right path as they try to regain their world softball title at next year's championships in Auckland.

"We have been working hard for the past couple of years to get to where we want to be," he said.

Several contenders for the world championships team were in the capital at the weekend as part of the local association's 75th jubilee celebrations and played an invitation Wellington team on Saturday at Hataitai Park.
The Black Sox team won both games with ease. More importantly for Kohlhase, it was an opportunity for the national players to get some game time together.

Among those who would be pleased with their performances on Saturday were Aaron Neemia, Wayne Laulu, Dan Taipari, Tyson Barterillo, Campbell Makea and Tyson Byrne, who all picked up multiple hits in the two games. Defensively, the players also showed their class, with the Wellington selection finding their chances limited.
"It's all about getting some time on the diamond together and against some good opposition," Kohlhase said.

"There was some excellent base running. We showed our running game. For us, it is about our running game and we showed that."

"You also need to remember there are some players to come back," he said.

Those players include squad members Thomas Makea, Jarrad Martin and Patrick Shannon.

All three are veterans of world championships and considered among the world's best players in their positions.
The world championships team will be named after the National Fastpitch Championship tournament at North Shore's Rosedale Park from December 6-9. Team members will have several camps.

They will also play in two major club tournaments - the Brother Patrick and Dean Schick tournaments in Auckland - ahead of the world championships at Rosedale Park from March 1-10.

"There are places up for grabs, obviously, but we do have a core of players," Kohlhase said.
New Zealand lost their world title crown to Australia in 2009.


 

Upper South Island Invitation Impress

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15/11/2012

The Upper South Island (USI) team impressed at Saxton Ballpark yesterday, holding the Black Sox to a tight 4-1 score line with the Black Sox coming out on top.

In front of a large crowd, the home squad were aggressive with the bat and in the field, tying up the score line until the top of the fourth.
Co-coach Daryl Stratford applauded the team, as well as the individual flair of many players, especially Kurt Schollum who pitched for both sides.

Black Sox hurler Nik Hayes arrived into Nelson later than expected due to a delayed international flight. Because Schollum toured with the national side earlier this year and is considered part of the wider Black Sox camp, he was transferred across the diamond, pitching three innings for the Black Sox and three for the USI team. He took six strike outs in total.

Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase praised the 17-year-old’s prowess and has acquired him for tomorrow night’s re-match.
“It was a great game of softball. It was very clinical and the skill level was high,” Kohlhase said. “The last time our squad played together was July and this match was about re-acquainting ourselves and working on combinations. The Nelson side understood this game was as much for us as it was for them.”
The home side was aggressive on defence, making the first out of the game a Nigel Kelly double play. Derryn French followed up with a routine shortstop-third out. Unfortunately it was three up, three down in the batter’s box for USI.

The Black Sox scored their first run in the top of the second. Jerome Haretuku drove the ball to centre field and was scored by Dan Tarapi who hit to the fence.
USI were able to reply in the third after Vincent Whittington earned one of two walks in the game and was advanced to second through a sacrifice drive to second base from French. Damien Dolejs returned the ball hard and fast to the pitcher at his turn to bat. With the ball bouncing off the pitcher’s glove and out into right field, Whittington was able to come home and tie up the game at 1-all.

USI pitcher Brandon Peck had kept the game tight, striking out two Black Sox, but was made to work in the fourth innings with Aaron Neemia and Haretuku hitting 13 fouls between them. Neemia eventually got the ball in park, hitting to centre field for a three-bagger. Haretuku hit the ball out of the park and scored them both on an automatic home run.

A miss-throw for a tag at third in the fifth innings saw Tyrone Bartorillo bring in the fourth run for the Black Sox.

Both teams were effectively shut down in the last three innings once Schollum returned to his USI squad and Marlborough-born Hayes took the mound for the national side.

Hayes struck out seven of ten USI batters. And, aside from the run in the fifth, it was three up, three down in each innings for the Black Sox. Schollum took two strike outs with USI, and as well as several routine outs there was a successful Kelly-instigated run down on Tyson Byrne double play.

USI team captain French said the game was a great opportunity for many of the young players, who all proved themselves against the best the country has to offer. Himself, Peck and Daniel Mallabar have been picked for the Southern Pride team, and Luke Bowers is a step closer to forcing his way into the Pride team, he said.

The Black Sox are due to play another game against a Nelson Selection at 5.30pm tonight.


 

Black Sox Internal Tour Itinerary

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Nelson 14th November

- 12.00pm – 12.45pm: Clifton Tce School

- 1.15pm – 2.15pm: Waimea College Softball

- 1.15pm – 2.15pm: Nelson College Softball

- 3.15pm: Meet the kids / fans (Saxton Field)

- 5.30pm: Exhibition Game against Upper South Island Selection
 

Nelson 15th November

10.00am – 11.00am: Broadgreen Intermediate Softball

11.15am – 12.15pm: Nelson Intermediate Softball

12.30pm – 1.30pm: Waimea Intermediate Softball

5.30pm: Exhibition Game against Nelson Softball Selection
 

Wellington 16th November

- WSA 75th Dinner
 

Wellington 17th November

- Black Sox arrive to interact with players and coaches etc. Signed posters and balls to give away.

- 1.00pm: Black Sox vs. local selection

- 3.15pm: Celebrity game slow pitch
Sandra Edge (silver ferns), Ken Laban (rugby league, TV) , Dave Smart (classic hits) Mark Sorenson (softball) Kate Horan (para olympics & world champion) Robyn Wong  (Olympics & commonwealth games mountain biker) Glen Roff (Softball NZ) Richard Watt (Hurricanes) Phil Gibbons (CEO Sport Wgtn) Chris Middleton (Waikato Rugby Lock) Earl Va’a (Western Samoan WC Rugby) T.J Perenara (Hurricanes) Mark Reddish (Hurricanes) Phil Gibbons (CEO Sport Wgtn) Katrina Grant (Pulse) Ross Bond (Rugby Commentator) 

- 4.15pm: Cake cutting and speeches etc

- 5.00pm: Black Sox vs. local selection
 

Hastings 18th November

- 4.00pm: Black Sox vs. Hawkes Bay NFC team

- 6.00pm: Black Sox vs. Hawkes Bay NFC team
 

Hastings 19th November

- 8.00am: Mayoral reception hosted by Lawrence Yule, Hastings District Council Mayor

- 9.30am – 10.45am: Coaching Clinics at Akina Park for Primary School

North Shore 19th November

Schools Festival Day

- Launch of schools programme, Junior World Softball Championships and SNZ schools resources, and delivery of fun activities
 

North Shore 20th November

- AM: Attend schools involved in KiwiSport initiatives

- PM: Exhibition match Black Sox v local selection
 

North Shore 21st November

Black Sox Activity

- AM: Jump off the sky tower/bungy jump, media opportunity

Black Sox Team: Nik Hayes, Arron Neemia, Campbell Makea, Tyrone Bartorillo, Tyson Byrne, Dan Tarpari, Jerome Haretuku, Ben Enoka, Wayne Laulu, Rhys Casley. Additional local Black Sox players will be included at various locations on the tour.

 
 

Black Sox Internal Tour Ready to Commence

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12/11/2012

Taking it easy will be the last thing on the minds of the Black Sox players selected for the “Get on the Bus” road trip. The tour begins on in Nelson and then travels to Wellington before heading to the Hawke’s Bay . The last leg of the trip is at the world championship venue
 
For the tour Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase has opted to include several younger members of his squad with world championship hopeful Nick Hayes one who will be wanting to make the most of his chances after his late call-up to the Black Sox for their North American tour earlier this year. Hayes will be sharing the pitching duties during the tour with another world championship rookie Penese Iosefa.
 
On the bus but expected to take a limited role in the road trip is Black Sox captain Rhys Casley, who  underwent shoulder surgery last week.

The tour starts in Nelson on Wednesday and then two days later the side arrives in Wellington where they will be based for the weekend and take part in a number of activities planned as part of that association’s 75^th jubilee celebrations.  In Wellington the side will play against a Wellington Selection team which will include a number of Black Sox squad members.
 
The next stop for the tourists is in Hawke’s Bay where they will on Sunday play two games and then on Monday visit a number of schools in the area.
 
The team is then scheduled to arrive in North Shore on November 20 and will visit a number of schools before playing games, including an evening match at the world championship venue, Rosedale Park.
 
The following day the players will be involved in a number of training and coaching sessions at schools on the North Shore.


 

Black Sox Internal Tour

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26/09/2012
 

Nelson will be the starting point of the Black Sox Internal Tour as the team heads toward next year’s world softball championships which will be held at Rosedale Park on the North Shore. The side, ranked number two in the world after relinquishing their crown to Australia at the 2009 tournament, begin their trek in Nelson when they assemble there on November 13. The following day they will play games giving local supporters an opportunity to come and watch them. The trek north includes a two day stop in Nelson from November 14-15 where the team will play games and visit a number of schools in that area. On November 16 the players will be in Wellington and will be involved in that Association’s 75th jubilee celebration which includes a dinner on that evening at which coach Eddie Kohlhase is a guest speaker. On the Saturday the team will make visits to venues involving junior games and then will play two games, including an evening match-up.

On Sunday the team head to Hawke’s Bay and will again play two games and the following day visit schools in the region.

The team is then scheduled to arrive in North Shore on November 20 and will visit schools in the region before playing games, including one in the evening.

The following day the players will conduct a number of training and coaching sessions at a number of schools on the North Shore before the players return to their home base.

For the team it is important that they reach out to their fan base ahead of next year’s world championship with the players looking at regaining their crown. It is the first time since 1996 tournament that the side will have gone into the world championship as the number 2 team in the competition. The team of 1996 won that tournament and then went on to win the events in 2000 and 2004, which was in Christchurch, before Australia beat them at the 2009 event in Saskatoon, Canada.
 
More information regarding the events and activities will be released shortly.


Get on the Bus NZ
Get on the Bus NZ and support your team bring home gold in North Harbour. The team needs your support as it hunts its sixth world crown on New Zealand soil.

Keep an eye out for our soon to be released message of support video competition.


 

NZ Black Sox Players in Action

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 20/08/2012

Black Sox softball international Donny Hale has been named the most valuable player at the International Softball Congress tournament which finished in yesterday (subs SUN) in Midland, Michigan.
Hale’s role was instrumental in his North American club side Broken Bow Travelers (Jarvis, Ontario) winning their third consecutive ISC title. The side beat Hill United Chiefs (Ontario) 8-6 in the final which needed an extra innings. He  finished the tournament with 11 hits from his 19 turns at bat for an average of .579 and batted in 17 runs, which is a tournament record.
 
Hale was not the only New Zealander in the Travelers line-up with his former international team-mate  Brad Rona, who also hit a home run in the final, Ben Enkoa and Tyron Bartorillo in the side.
Hale, Rona and Patrick Shannon (who was playing for the New York Gremlins side), were named in the tournament team.


 

Black Sox tour of North America News

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NY Gremilins beat Black Zox 3-1 - 02/07/2012
The New York Gremilins have beaten the New Zealand Black Sox 3-1 in the final of the Peligro tournament.


 

Black Sox – Peligro Tournament

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01/07/2012

On Friday night the team played the team from the Dominican Republic, and this was a good test of where we are at.  Penese Iosefa started the game on the mound and was hit for a home run on the 2nd pitch, this looked like repeats of our earlier games on tour where we would be chasing big runs conceded in the early innings.  The Dominicans did score one more run in the first from two further hits. Penese then showed great courage and composure and pitched a further 6 scoreless innings.

Patrick Shannon did his normal superman act and hit a home run with 2 runners on base in the bottom of the first.  We scored one more with a Wayne Laulu home run in the 4th innings. Good start 4-2 victory.

Saturday saw the arrival of Jeremy Manley to the touring party and he was given the ball against Swashbucklers (a team based in California). He started a little rough, walked the first hitter, threw one in the back of the net, struck out the 2nd hitter, hit the next batter and walked the next, so loaded bags one out.  Jeremy struck out next two hitters with basically low rise balls they didn't touch, too fast and real great movement.

He faced another 15 hitters and stuck them all out, by the end of the game he was getting stronger and had complete control of every pitch, this is the first time I have seen him pitch and he reminds me of Stephen Schultz, tonnes of speed with nice rotation on his drop and rise ball. The hitters did the job and scored 5 runs for 5-0 victory.

At 7pm tonight we had the Padres which is an All Star team from Venezuela, they had picked up a Canadian pitcher who pitches for the Great Britain national team, we started Nik Hayes on the mound, his first start this tour.  He was a little erratic early on and gave up a walk and they got two runners on 1st & 3rd base.  He struck one guy out and the next hit a ground ball to Bartorillo at shortstop who turned the standard 6/4/3 double play to retire the side without giving up a run.

He pitched well for 4 more innings before being replaced by Kurt Schollum the 18 year old rookie,  he came in and completed 2 good innings on the mound.  With Nik at 23 years and Kurt being the youngster of the pitchers this tour has uncovered real talent that will allow the Black Sox to develop its depth in the pitching department.  The selectors have been given something to think about by both of these young men.

The hitting was exceptional and we won 9-2, stand out performers with the bat were, Patrick Shannon, Nathan Nukunuku, Thomas Makea and our captain Rhys Casley.

Tomorrow brings finals day and the end of our tour, I hope to be writing about a tournament victory tomorrow night.

Regards Carl Gould


 

Black Sox travel to Pennsylvania

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29/06/2012
 
In 1976 the ISF World Series was held in Hutt Valley, leading the US bid was their legendary pitcher Ty Stofflet, this Superman was able to pitch the ball at over 100 miles/hour, not km/hr, so the story goes.  The only man to seriously challenge for the title of best pitcher in the world was our own Kevin Hurlihy.

So Ty was asked to throw the first pitch at our game at Patriots Park, Allentown, Pennsylvania, I had the opportunity to speak to the great man and watch him relive memories from the marathon game when he and Kevin battled for 20 innings, Kevin Hurlihy took 26 strike outs and gave up 4 hits, Ty Stofflet, took 32 strikeouts and gave up 2 hits, he pitched a perfect game until the 19th innings, he actually got the base hit that scored the single run of the game. He laughed hardest when he remembered the streaker and how the police were chasing the male streaker with blankets to cover him and how he looked like he was going to do himself a mischief trying to hurdle the fence.

So the game against the Pennsylvania Power we played 7 scoreless innings, had a couple of opportunities to score but didn't. Tane Richardson who has been struggling pitched 5 good innings, and at the end it ended up a nil all draw. 

You may have guessed that meeting Ty Stofflet will be something I will remember till the day I die, this particular game will soon fade and be gone, but to meet a living legend, absolutely bloody fantastic. 

The team has a well earned rest day tomorrow before we start the Peligro Tournament on Friday night, this is a real  test against top opposition.

Regards - Carl 


 

Black Sox Arrive in New York

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28/06/2012
 
The NZ Black Sox have arrived in New York and what a culture shock in comparison to New Zealand, it was a battle getting the lads to drive the rental cars, none of the managers wanted to drive, must be age.

So we left for Stevens, got lost for an hour before buying a GPS for the lead van and we arrived in time for our game against the Pennsylvania Allstars.  The Black Sox hit first and scored two in the first with good short hitting from Bartorillo, Patrick Shannon, and Thomas Makea.

Kurt Schollum started on the mound and contained the locals with steady pitching.

For the next 5 innings the Black Sox scored runs in each turn at bat against average club level pitching and reached 13 runs on the score board while keeping the host scoreless.

Thomas Makea hit the only home run with two runners on base in the 4th innings.

The next couple of days will be less frantic than what we scheduled in Canada, but this was deliberate as the logistics in New York is around getting from point A to B.

We play the Power in Allentown tonight who will be a good test as they are ranked in the top 5 teams in the USA.

Black Sox Management
Carl Gold
Eddie Kohlhase
 

• Black Sox hit out at pitching repeat offender - 26/06/2012

 

 

Legends Tournament Finals Day

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25/06/2012

We were scheduled to play 3 games at 11, 1 and 3 pm if we continued to win on Sunday, the team started slowly in the first game but won 5-4 in tie breaker that is probably all that needs to be said.  Those of us who have played softball have all experienced a game when the team is flat, this was one of those games.
 
Game two was against New York, winners from the other bracket. The Black Sox team was on fire and lite up the Canadian national pitcher, scoring 3 runs in the first with home runs to  Rhys Casley and Patrick Shannon.  2 more runs were scored in the second innings with further good hitting from a number of players.  To make a long game short we won 10-3 in a shortened game with Rhys and Patrick hitting two automatics for the game, good pitching from Penese Iosefa and Karl Gollan. This is the most disciplined team I have ever been associated with, this is a new age of softball for those of us who played in a different era when socializing was the norm.
 
The Final was against Hill United Indians. We started Heinie Shannon on the mound and again the Indians got off to a flier, scoring 5 runs in the first with 3 home runs and 2 more solid hits.  So many teams would fold but not this team being 5-0 down.  The Black Sox came back with 2 runs in the 2nd innings, but the Indians responded with one of their own.  In the 4^th, Adam Folkard the Australian national pitcher deliberately hit Tyron Bartorillo in the ribs, the Black Sox bench was not happy. This is the 4th time he has done this.  Tyron used to play for the Aussie national team and is now a committed BLACK SOX PLAYER.
 
Next Batter Rhys Casley hit an automatic off the first pitch not bad for a captains knock.  Two more runs and we are tied 6 all.
 
This was one of the best games of softball I have ever seen or been a part of, the Indians scored one more in the 6th and we got a runner on and then Thomas Makea hit a a line drive home run, which means it went low and flat and went out in a hurry.
 
So unfortunately as I have already stated we are struggling to finish off teams. This is no exception, no fairy tale where we win the one that counts. The Indians came back and hit a home run with a runner on and won 9-8.
 
So in fairness to the Indians who we have played 4 times this week they have beats us 4 from 4 by one run on each occasion, so they are the better team. But team sports is exciting because oh what a difference a day makes we will meet in New York next weekend and I believe the tide will turn.
 
Regards Carl Gould


 

Black Sox – Three games back to back to back

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25/06/2012

The Black Sox faced a tough challenge at the Legends Tournament in Kitchener in Canada, with three games back to back to back. Game 1 was against the Hill United team who had already beaten the Black Sox twice mid week and contain many Australian and Canadian international team players.  The game got off to a similar start with starting pitcher, Karl Gollan getting off to a rough start giving up two hits followed by a home run to put the Black Sox behind 3-0 in the first.

Gollan was replace in the 3rd innings with Nik Hayes who has demonstrated in his brief time in the team he is not out of place, he pitched well for 3 innings before tiring in the 6th and giving up 2 hits including a home run.

The Black Sox have shown on many occasions already that they don't lie down, they came back at Hill United with an exceptional display of power hitting with home runs to Rhys Casley, Patrick Shannon, Thomas Makea, Wayne Laulu and finally Jerome Haretuku.  The game went into the 7th innings with the Blck Sox leading Hill United 7-5.  Penese Iosefo was asked to take the ball and try to get the three vital outs that would give the Black Sox the victory, but every time these two teams have met this wasn't going to be regulation.  Hill United got two batters on base and the Black Sox got two outs and two strikes on the batter, this was the crucial moment of the game, the pitch, it was sent over the Centre field fence to take an 8-7 lead for Hil Utd.

As previously the Hill United immediately brought Adam Folkard into the game to close the game, This went to plan with three ground ball regulation outs.  The 800 fans witnessed a great game of softball, there was many positives for the Black Sox the ability to come back and get the lead, Nik Hayes 3 good innings which has him as a good relief pitcher at International level, the ability to score runs off quality pitching, but it did show we have a lack of pitching depth to finish of opposition.

Coach Eddie Kohlhase said, this was a great game and we did many, many positive things, but it also spoke volumes on our pitching depth, Jeremy Manley has been our #1 pitcher for the past 5 years and is a superior performer at this level.  Not having him here leaves us a little short to finish off opposition hitters, this tour is all about preparation for March 2013, we needed to know this, Nik Hayes is pushing hard for a permanent position.

Game Two against the Midland team kicked off at 6pm with a 20 minute break from the loss, the Black Sox bounced back with a disciplined 5-1 victory with Heinie Shannon performing well on the mound.

Game 3 against the Toronto Travellers started at 9.30 pm so a long day at the park for the Black Sox, again a fine display by all with a 7-1 victory, but as Coach Kohlhase pointed out to the team we demonstrated today an inability to finish off the opposition both in the field and with the bat, we should have scored one more run to win early and when up by two close the final innings.

Sunday is finals day the Black Sox finished 2nd in the section so have a long day at the ball park to win with games at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.  The team is playing well and with well planned juggling of the pitchers is confident it can repeat by winning this tournament.
 
Regards – Carl Gould/Eddie Kohlhase


 

Kitchener Tournament starts

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25/06/2012

The New Zealand Black Sox kicked off their bid to defend the Legends of Softball title they won this time last year in Kitchener, Canada.  At 9pm on Friday 22 June in front of 600 spectators we played the Midland team who are ranked in the top 5 teams in the USA and beat them 4-1' the scoring started in the first innings with a single to Ben Enoka,  Tyson Byrne executed a splendid hit and run that had runners on 2 and 3.  Rhys Casley the Captain moved the ball with a hit to first base who was too slow to catch Ben Enoka at home plate.

Another single from Donny Hale and the Black Sox were 2 nil up, Midland managed to get the innings closed only having given up the 2 runs.  In the 6th innings Nathan Nukunuku singled to left field and Patrick Shannon was brought in to pinch hit, he hit a huge automatic home run off the 3rd ball he faced to take the score to 4-0.

Penese Iosefo pitched for the Black Sox and had an excellent game, striking out 8 hitters and giving up 3 base hits to keep Midland scoreless till the 6th innings, he was replaced by Tane Richardson who gave up a Home run to give Midland conciliation run before finishing the game.

The Black Sox have a considerable challenge on Saturday with 3 games scheduled back in a row, starting with the Chiefs who beat them twice during the week.  A tough challenge to come out with 3 wins.

Regards Cal Gould
Black Sox Manager


 

2012 Legends Of Fastball Classic

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23/06/2012

2012 Legends of Fastball Classic Tournament Schedule - Senior Division ...Download here
 

 

Black Sox v Argentinian National team

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22/06/2012

The Black Sox played a double header against the Argentinian National team On Wednesday 20/6.  The team bounced back with two excellent wins 7-5 in the first game and 7-1 in the 2nd game.  Wayne Laulu has started the tour in magnificent form and hit 4 from 6 with another automatic home run, Wayne is happy with his performance to date but says the tour starts tomorrow with the first competitive tournament.  The squad is coming together well and the youngsters pitched well tonight, it was great to see.

The Black Sox pitched Kurt Schollum and Nik Hayes against the Argentinians, earning their first test caps, they performed well.  Nik Hayes especially impressed coming on with loaded bases and no outs and got out of the innings with only 1 run scoring.  He is demonstrating that he has real speed to dominate hitters and will be powerful pitcher of the future, the decision of the selectors and the board to invest in these two players is paying dividends which will be on show for years to come.

Campbell Makea, hit well in the 2nd game hitting 2 home runs and there was numerous cameo fielding and batting efforts from many of the players, the team is developing and the game plan is aggressive and exciting in it's concepts. The 800 fans that turned up witnessed a brand of softball that all New Zealand softball can be proud of.


 

Black Sox Warm Up Games - Day 2

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21/06/2012
 
The Black Sox played Hill United Chiefs last night in a double header on the reservation at Six Nations Reserve, Brantford, Ontario.  The locals showed the Black Sox great Hospitality, putting on a nice lunch and a visit to the local museum which is dedicated to the history of the local Indian tribes.  This is the first time that the Black sox have visited this location and the people were extremely friendly and made us welcome.
 
At the Ball park we were greeted with about 1200 spectators, there was a ceremonial smoke dance put on by the locals before the Black Sox replied with the traditional Haka.
 
Game 1
The chiefs won a tight encounter 4-3, with the difference coming in the 1st innings when the chiefs got 2 base hits and a home run to Mark Johnson off pitcher Tane Richardson.  Things settled down after this poor start and The Black Sox clawed their way back into the game scoring two runs in the 3rd and one in the 4th innings to tie the game.
 
The Chiefs came straight back with a run in the 5th innings and a then brought Adam Folkard into the game to close off the game and take the win.  For the Black Sox Wayne Laulu starred with the bat hitting an Automatic home run.
 
Game 2
The hosts were not friendly on the diamond once again getting off to a flying start by getting runners on 1 and 2 before Mark Johnson hit another automatic home run off pitcher Karl Gollan in the first innings.  The Black Sox chased hard and came back at the chiefs who pitched Adam Folkard, the Australian number 1 pitcher. The Black Sox scored 3 runs utilizing their new game plan of short hitting, bunts and plenty of speed on the bases.  Nathan Nukunuku, Jerome Raemaki and Ben Enoka stod out with the bat and their base running.
 
The Black Sox coming from our winter looked a little sluggish in the field and made errors at critical times that again let this game slip from their grasp.  They were beaten 4-3, there was many positives and Coach Eddie Kohlhase said that the game was there to be won but we failed to execute at crucial times in the game.  This is only games 3 and 4 and the Black Sox will get better every game, this is why they are here to learn and put their game plan into practice.
 
Carl Gould
Black Sox Manager


 

Black Sox tour of Canada and USA

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19/06/2012

The tour has started positively with wins over Alviston Indians 5-1 and the All Star selection from the St THOMAS district 7-1.  Donny Hale stared with the bat with 2 home runs, 2 triples and a two base hit scoring 8 RBI's.  Captain Rhys Casley and Thomas Makea also hit home runs.  

The Black Sox have worked hard at developing an aggressive running game, exciting base running was the order of the night with 8 stolen bases and 4 extra bases taken by Ben Enoka, Tyson Byrne and Tyrone Bartorillo. There was a crowd of 800 locals who were appreciative at the skill and enthusiasm of the Black Sox.

Congratulations to Nick Hayes and Kurt Schollum who played their first game for the Black Sox, both were added to the tour to build pitching depth for the future, and each came on as relief pitcher and did well.

Carl Gould
Manager NZ Black Sox


 

NZ Black Sox – 2012 North American Tour

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18/06/2012

Players: Casley, Byrne, T Makea, Enoka, Nukunuku, Bartorillo, Laulu, Haretuku, C Makea, Raemaki, Iosefo, H Shannon, P Shannon, Gollan, Neemia, Hale, Richardson, Schollum, Hayes
 
Management: Kohlhase, Workman, Tangaroa, Martin, Cashman, Gould 
 
(Canadian Times)
 
Monday June 18
Double Header 6.00pm, Alviston Indians  8.00pm St Thomas Major Fastball League All Stars, in Alvinston, Ontario.
 
Tuesday June 19
Double-header, 6.00 & 8.00pm Hill United Chiefs, in Six Nations Reserve, Brantford, Ontario.
 
Wednesday June 20
Double-header, 6.00 & 8.00pm, Argentina Men’s National Team in Moorefield, Ontario.
 
 
Legends Tournament
    
Thursday June 21
 
7:00 p.m. Kitchener vs New Zealand 
7:00 p.m. Pt Elgin vs St.Thomas     
9:00 p.m. St.Thomas vs Argentina    
9:00 p.m.  Kitchener vs Toronto      
 
Friday June 22
 
7:00 p.m.  Hill United vs Kitchener  
9:00 p.m.  New Zealand vs Midland
9:00 p.m.  NY Gremlins vs Jarvis     
 
Saturday June 23
 
10:00 a.m. Midland vs Kitchener     
10:00 a.m. NY Gremlins vs St.Thomas  
12:00 p.m. Midland vs Hill United 
12:00 p.m. Argentina vs Pt. Elgin 
 
2:00 P.M.  LEGENDS CEREMONY 
 
3:00 p.m. Hill United vs New Zealand
3:00 p.m.  St. Thomas vs  Jarvis 
5:00 p.m.  Pt. Elgin vs NY Gremlins
5:00 p.m. Toronto vs Midland 
7:00 p.m.  Argentina vs NY Gremlins
7:00 p.m. Jarvis vs Pt. Elgin
9:00 p.m. Jarvis vs Argentina
9:00 p.m. New Zealand vs Toronto
 
Sunday June 24
 
8:00 a.m. Toronto vs Hill United
10:00 a.m. 3^rd place Aberdeen Division vs 2^nd Place Hallman Division  
10:00 a.m. 3^rd place Hallman Division vs 2^nd place Aberdeen Division
12:00 p.m.  1^st place Hallman Division vs Winner 22
12:00 p.m.  1^st place Aberdeen Division vs Winner 21
2:00 p.m.   Winner 23 vs Winner 24   CHAMPIONSHIP GAME


 

Black Sox Media Release

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15/06/2012

Success in the coming weeks will be secondary as the Black Sox coaching staff look at the bigger picture – the March World championships at North Shore’s Rosedale Park.
 
“This tour presents us the opportunity to work on our game systems and structures which will benefit this group,” Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase said.
 
The Black Sox leave today for a three week tour of North America and the side will waste little time in getting acclimatized for the tour with their opening game on Monday against clubs sides in Ontario, Canada. The team has further games against club sides on Tuesday and then on Wednesday they face the Argentina national side in a double header.
 
On Thursday the side opens play in the first of their two tournaments which is the Legends tournament being held in Kitchener, Canada, from the 1-4 June. The Peligro Tournament will be held in New York, from June 29 to July 1. The tour is the last international competition the Black Sox face before the team is announced in December for the World Championships.
 
“We have a large group and all [of them] are very much in contention for selection,” Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase said.
 
That means the door is open for a number of experienced players and this tour sees the return of Donny Hale and Nathan Nukunuku to the team. These two have a wealth of international experience behind them, having been members of the successful 2004 Championship team, and also on the losing side at the 2009 tournament in Saskatoon, Canada.
 
At the other end of the experience scale, Kohlhase has called in both Nick Hayes and Kurt Schollum who will be making their Black Sox debut during the tour. Schollum earlier this year captained the Marlborough Boys’ College team to the national secondary school title and was unlucky not to have made the Junior Black Sox team that will compete at their world championship later this year.
 
“They have been selected because they are good enough, but the intangibles are the things you cannot coach. Whenever a new athlete enters the Black Sox we expect them to bring enthusiasm, passion and excitement to the team,” said coach Kohlhase.
 
The two have joined the pitching staff which includes Tane Richardson, Penese Iosefo and Heinie Shannon.
 
“All of our pitchers have been working hard in the off season,” Kohlhase said.
“Whilst we are looking for results on the diamond, as long as we see improvement in the areas that we have asked our pitchers to work on we will be satisfied.”


 

Black Sox North America Tour Team Changes

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15/06/2012

Softball New Zealand would like to congratulate both Kurt Schollum (Marlborough) and Nikki Hayes (Hutt Valley) who have been called into the New Zealand Black Sox squad for upcoming North American Tour.

They have been called into the squad for Jeremy Manley who has withdrawn for personal reasons.


 

Black Sox North America Tour Team

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3/04/2012

Defense will be a word the Black Sox players will hear a lot during their North America tour later in the year.

The tour is the last major preparation for the next year's world championship for the team and for the coaching staff that means players will be coming under the microscope more than they have in recent time, especially the pitchers with four named for the June-July tour.

"I am still of the opinion that we are giving up far too many runs," coach Eddie Kohlhase said.

"Perhaps a combination of pitchers not hitting good spots and or our defensive patterns not aligned to a strategy."

Kohlhase for this trip has put his faith in Heinie Shannon, Penese Iosefa, Tane Richardson and Jeremy Manley. He also has a fifth option with Karl Gollan selected but as an outfielder rather than a hurler.

Of the four front line pitcher Shannon has been the most impressive this summer. He was the leading pitcher at the Interislander National Fastpitch Championship and then backed up that performance by taking out the same award while playing for club side Waitakere Bears at the national interclub tournament.

Iosefa and Richardson also featured among the top five hurlers at the NFC tournament, while at the club championship they were among the top 15, with the later competition involving a number of overseas pitchers.

For the coaching staff the performance of their players at the premier tournaments was pleasing.

"We (selection panel Dave Workman and Chub Tangaroa) were particularly pleased with the squad memebrs," Kohlhase said.

"We saw significant improvement in areas of their individual work-ons - areas of the game they were asked to improve."

For the tour, which will see the side play not only a number of Canadian and American club sides but also in both the Legends and Peligro tournaments, Kohlhase has resisted the temptation of injecting too much youth and only jerome Raemaki can fall into the category, but while he is a member of the Junior Black Sox team for their world championship later this year, this will be his third tour with the senior side.

The side also sees a return to the international game for Donny Hale, who has been living in Japan, and Nathan Nukunuku.

Hale is not the only overseas based player to be selected with Jeremy Manley and Karl Gollan both in the team and living in the United States.

The team is: Heinie Shannon, Nathan Nukunuku, Patrick Shannon, Ben Enoka, Jerome Haretuku (Auckland), Penese Iosefa,  Tyron Bartorillo (Canterbury), Rhys Casley (c), Tyson Byrne (Hutt Valley), Thomas Makea, Jerome Raemaki, Campbell Makea, Wayne Laulu, Tane Richardson, Aaron Stroman Neemia (Wellington), Donny Hale (Japan), Jeremy Manley, Karl Gollan (United States).

 

ISF Men’s World Softball Championships 2013

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March 2012

The official countdown to the Softball World Championships 2013 begins in earnest with the one year to go milestone celebrated in Auckland today.

International Softball Federation deputy chairman Bob Leveloff marked the occasion at the home of the World Championships 2013 – Rosedale Park on Auckland’s North Shore.

“It is fantastic to have the World Championships 2013 here in Auckland, and we’re  just one year away.It‘s fitting that the premier event in the sport is to be held in this country,” Mr Leveloff said.

Minister of Sport – the  Honourable Murray McCully - was on site at the launch and mentioned how pleasing it is to have another major world sporting event in New Zealand.

“We are thrilled that the Softball World Championships 2013 are to be held in New Zealand.“We did a great job hosting last year’s Rugby World Cup and this is another chance for New Zealand to showcase itself to the world,” Minister McCully said.

Mr Leveloff also announced former New Zealand Black Sox captain and sporting icon Mark Sorenson as an ambassador of the World Championships 2013.

Sorenson says he is honoured to be an ambassador for the World Championships 2013.
“Winning a world title is something that I will always hold dearly so to be made an ambassador for this event is something I will cherish,” he said.

Rosedale Park planned upgrade was also unveiled at the launch.

The facility upgrade for the site includes a brand new purpose built stadium between Diamond 1 and Diamond 2. The works also involve the redevelopment of Diamond 2 and renovations to the existing clubrooms.

Rosedale Park will be a world class facility in Auckland. 
 

 

Black Sox Squad Named for Aussie Tour

---

While Kohlhase has put all the Black Sox players on notice saying “there are no guarantees for anyone” he is gradually fine-tuning the squad to hit a peak for the World Championships.
 
“We will name a squad this time next year so there’s still time for players to play themselves out or play themselves into the team.
 
“Obviously we have an idea of who we want and what style of game we want to play but with so much at stake we want to have as much depth as we can,” he said.
 
Talented Auckland player 18-year- old Ben Bull is included in the side and along with Jerome Raemaki and the young Rona he will give the side a youthful look.
 
Kohlhase makes no apologies for introducing the young players.
 
“Our game has a great history of bringing through exciting young players – we are no different. These young guys give the team an edge.”
 
The squad also sees the return of the talented catcher Aaron Neemia and the battle-hardened pitcher Regan Manley.
 
“Both men deserve their place in the squad,” said Kohlhase.
 
“They have both addressed significant issues in their lives and we see them as vital parts of the Black Sox team.
 
“Aaron is regarded as one of the premier catchers we have got while Regan continues to impress as a pitcher of high quality.”
 
Frank Pointon also returns to the mound to establish a formidable pitching roster featuring the Hutt Valley’s Shaun Jamieson and Manley.
 
The inclusion of Canterbury veteran Daniel Milne as a catcher also excites Kohlhase.
 
“There’s no secret we don’t have too many quality catchers so seeing Daniel front up in that role shows the calibre of the bloke.
 
“He is undoubtedly one of our most professional players and that’s the attitude we want.”
 
The team will be lead by Hutt Valley’s Rhys Casley.
 
 The Black Sox will take part in the high intensity Skins tournament against the best teams Australia has to offer plus the Samoan international team.
 
For the rules of the tournament and the draw go www.softball.org.nz
 
The squad departs for Sydney on Tuesday November 29 and returns on Monday December 5.
 
The squad is:
 
Rhys Casley (Hutt Valley) Captain
 
Pitchers:
Regan Manley (Hawkes Bay)
Frank Pointon (Wellington)
Shaun Jamieson (Hutt Valley)
 
Catchers:
Aaron Neemia (Wellington)
Daniel Milne (Canterbury)
 
Outfield:
Wayne Laulu (Wellington)
Ben Enoka (Auckland)
Jerome Raemaki (Wellington)
Campbell Makea (Wellington)
Jerome Haretuku (Auckland)
 
Infield:
Tyson Byrne (Hutt Valley)
Tyron Bartorillo (Canterbury)
Ben Bull (Auckland)
 
Designated player:
Patrick Shannon (Auckland)
 
Management:
Coach; Eddie Kohlhase
Assistant-Coach; Dave Workman
Physiotherapist; Rob Cashman
Manager: Doug Golightly


 

Black Sox Tour of America (American leg)

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Friday July 1

Peligro Tournament, Crotana Park (http://peligrosportsnyc.com/directions)
Black Sox v California, 3-0

Saturday July 2
Black Sox v. Industriales, 3-2
Black Sox v. NY Sports Bar, 3-4
Black Sox v. Dominicana, 0-3

Sunday July 3
Playoffs

Black Sox v. Chicago/NY, 3-2

Semi final: Black Sox v California As, 0-2


 

Black Sox Tour of North America (Canada Leg)

---

NOTE: The days below are NZ dates and times. These will differ from North American websites and times as they are a day behind us. 

Wednesday June 22, Toronto, Canada

Tuesday June 22, Toronto, Canada
Double-header in Niagara v League All-Star team
Game 1 - Black Sox v League All-Star team, 15-1
Game 2 - Black Sox v League All-Star team, 3-0 (called early due to lightning)
http://www.kwfastball.com/

Thursday June 23, Toronto, Canada
Double-header in New Dundee v Kitchener Cubs and Tri-Country All-Star team.
Game 1 - Black Sox v Kitchener Cubs, 0-5
Game 2 - Black Sox v Tri-Country All-Star team, 3-0
http://www.kwfastball.com/

Friday June 24, Toronto, Canada, Legends of Fastball Classic, Peter Hallman Ballyard Park, Kitchener
Black Sox v Owen Sound Selects, 5-1
http://www.kwfastball.com/

Saturday June 25, Toronto, Canada
Black Sox v Elmira Expos, 8-1

Sunday June 26, Toronto, Canada
Black Sox v Port Elgin Blue Devils, 7-0
Black Sox v Chicago-New York, 4-1

Monday June 27, Toronto, Canada
Playoff round
Black Sox v Midland Explorers, 5-4

Final
Black Sox v Jarvis, 4-3

Black Sox win Legends of Fastball Classic champions, with 4-3 win over Jarvis Travelers, on Rhys Casley 2run HR in 5th.

Tuesday June 28, Toronto, Canada
Game 1: Black Sox v Jarvis Travellers, 6-12
Game 2: Black Sox v Jarvis Travellers, 4-3


 

Black Sox North America Tour

---

 
An eye to the future is how Black Sox softball coach Eddie Kohlhase sees his side's tour to North America.
 
The team leaves on Saturday for the 20-day tour which will see the side play a number of games including the Legends of Fastball Classic tournament in Kitchener, Canada and the Peligro tournament in New York.
 
“The youth component in our team is vital. We must keep on building this team and ensuring we have the mix between experience and youthful enthusiasm just right. That's the secret for any team and we are no different," Kohlhase said.
 
"This tour provides further opportunity for our NZ players to play the best competition in the world. It also provides our players a testing environment making sure we make every stride to achieve optimum results on the field. This tour will lay the foundations for the assault on the World Championships at Auckland's Rosedale Park in March of 2013."
 
The culture in the Black Sox environment highlights the importance of preparation, with players not only consistently performing week in and week out, but improving as they strive to become the best they can be.
 
Injuries and player availability have also forced changes to the initial team selected with Brad Rona, a veteran of three world championships, forced to miss the tour through a knee injury requiring surgery. His unavailability also means the opportunity to play at an international level with his son Pita, who will make his Black Sox debut during the tour, thus New Zealand sporting history is on hold. Pita Rona is not the only college student selected in the team with Wellington's Jerome Raemaki being the other.
 
"It's exciting to have two outstanding schoolboys in the team with Pita and Jerome. This is a great learning curve for them and one they won't forget."
 
Brad Rona's place in the team has given Kohlhase and pitching coach Chubb Tangaroa the opportunity to add another pitcher to the side with Canterbury's Nathan Taikato called into the team. Also coming into the side for the games in the United States is pitcher Karl Gollan, who last played for the Black Sox at the 2004 world championships in Christchurch. Gollan will replace Jeremy Manley, who is unavailable for the games in the US.

 

Black Sox North America Tour Update

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With the 2013 World Championships scheduled for early 2013, the Black Sox head off on their tour of North America on June 18^th with some clear objectives.  They are away for 3 weeks and are involved in tournaments and games in Canada and the USA.  Due to injuries and player unavailability, a few changes have been made to the original squad.  As such, Softball New Zealand would like to wish the following players and management well on their upcoming tour:

Rhys Casley (Captain); Tyson Byrne (Vice Captain); Thomas Cameron; Penese Iosefo; Craig Wallace; Nathan Taikato; Tyron Bartorillo; Jerome Raemkai; Daniel Tarapi; Pita Rona; Thomas Makea; Daniel Milne; Ben Enoka; Jerome Haretuku; Wayne Laulu; Campbell Makea; Jeremy Manley; Karl Gollan.

They will be joined by a management team comprising of:
Eddie Kohlhase (Head Coach); Dave Workman (Assistant Coach); Chubb Tangaroa (Pitching Coach); Rob Cashman (Physiotherapist); Craig Soper (Technology Assistant); Doug Golightly (Manager).
 
Technology Assistant update
Softball New Zealand would like to extend its congratulations to Craig Soper on his recent appointment as Black Sox Technology Assistant.  Craig replaces Clayton Willocks who has been with the Black Sox for the past 12 months.  Softball New Zealand would like to thank Clayton for the time and energy he has invested into the role during this time and wish him well with his future endeavours.


 

Black Sox Team Named for North American Tour

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Softball lessons rather than those learnt in the classroom is going to be the focus for Pita Rona and Jereome Raemaki in June. The two college students have been selected in the Black Sox team for their North American tour, Rona's inclusion also adds another piece of New Zealand softball sporting history with the 16-year-old pitcher joining his father Brad in the team.

"This is truly a unique selection," Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase said.

"Both Rona's are outstanding players and represent all that's good about the game. Pita's selection is based on form and what we know he's capable of. Pita has exceptional talent and huge potential."

Also named on the pitching staff for the tour is Penese Iosefo, who pitched Canterbury to victory over Wellington in last month's final of the National Fastpitch Championship (NFC).

"Penese has forced his way into the team on the back of some solid performances for Canterbury," Kohlhase said.

"He has shown genuine consistency in the past couple of seasons."

Kohlhase has also included Thomas Cameron, who pitched a no-hitter for his club team Poneke-Kilbirnie to win the national interclub tournament last month and the United States based Jeremy Manley, who last played for the side at the 2009 world championships. Kohlhase has also named Craig Wallace (Wellington) and Tyron Bartorillo (Canterbury) who will be making their debut for the national team.

"Craig's selection is a result of consistent performances during the last season. He is well respected among the players and has a hardnosed approach to the game," Kohlhase said.

"Ty [Bartorillo] brings exceptional skill and a real edge to the infield. His competitive streak and talent will be a bonus for us."

The team also sees the return of Daniel Milne, who had to withdraw from the side for the December trip to Canberra, Australia because of work commitments after the first Christchurch earthquake.

"It's great to welcome Dan back to the team and our senior management group. The break Dan had has reinforced his commitment to the team and it's that attitude we need," Kohlhase said.

"The recent earthquake has been a tragic and traumatic time for the people of Christchurch and Dan has witnessed that closely. His experience and the way he continues to deal with it is something we can learn from. He brings real steel to the squad."

Also back after missing the December trip is Thomas Makea.

"Many sports teams have great players but few have iconic players in their ranks. We are lucky that one of the best to have ever pulled on the Black Sox uniform is with us," said Kohlhase.

"Thomas brings genuine class to the squad. His presence will have a real impact on the younger players."

The team is: Ben Enoka, Jerome Haretuku (Auckland), Penese Iosefo, Tyron Bartorillo, Daniel Milne (Canterbury), Rhys Casley (captain) Tyson Byrne (Hutt Valley), Brad Rona, Pita Rona (North Harbour), Thomas Cameron, Aaron Neemia, Craig Wallace, Jerome Raemaki, Daniel Tarapi, Thomas Makea, Wayne Laulu, Campbell Makea (Wellington), Jeremy Manley (USA-based).


 

Black Sox Results at Men's International Test Series in Australia

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The Black Sox kicked off their International Test Series in Australia with a victory over Argentina 3-1. The highlights of the game were veteran NZ pitcher Heinie Shannon shutting down the Argentinian side allowing only 3 hits and 1 run, and captain Rhys Casley having 4 hits from as many at-bats. Ben Enoka, Brad Rona and Wayne Laulu drove in the three NZ runs. The lone Argentinian run was a solo home run in the bottom of the 5th inning from centre fielder German Sacks. Click here for the game summary.

 

Black Sox Tour of Australia

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THERE is a new-look to the Black Sox softball team for the test series against Australia. From the team that lost in the world championship final to Australia last year just five players - Rhys Casley, who will captain the team, Brad Rona, Patrick Shannon, Heinie Shannon and Ben Enoka remain.

"We are in a development phase of a new campaign, historically the Black Sox only ever pick their best team every four years and we see no reason not to continue with this logic," Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase said.

"While some regulars have missed selection for this tour we have a group of 40 identified squad members whom are all committed to the goal of raising the bar to ensure the Black Sox keep evolving."

While there are five players from last year's team remaining, Kohlhase has also recalled Thomas Cameron, Tyson Byrne, Bernard Hale and Wayne Laulu who have all had time in the Black Sox team in the past four years.

The new-comers to the side are Te Wera Bishop, Shaun Jamieson, Aaron Kuru, Joel Evans, Bobby King, Dan Tarapi, Campbell Makea and Jerome Heretuku.

Of those eight the biggest surprise is perhaps the inclusion of the 17-year-old Bishop, who will be the back-up catcher to Shannon. The series in Australia is an opportunity for the Wellington youngster to learn from
the experienced Shannon.

Kohlhase believes the international series in Canberra will provide the sort of competition the players need to gauge where they are at.

"Playing the world champions is a huge challenge but it offers us the competition we need to see where we are at. We have a relatively inexperienced squad so this will most definitely provide us with an
indicator of what's required to compete at this level.

"This is an outstanding Australian squad and Argentina have always battled hard. It's going to be a tough series."

PITCHERS: Heinie SHANNON (AK), Shaun JAMIESON (HV), Thomas CAMERON (WN).
CATCHERS: Te Wera BISHOP (WN), Pat SHANNON (AK).
INFIELDERS: Tyson BYRNE (HV), Rhys CASLEY (c) (HV), Brad RONA (vc) (NH), Aaron KURU (HB), Joel EVANS (HV), Bobby KING (AK).
OUTFIELDERS: Bernard HALE (AK), Ben ENOKA (AK), Wayne LAULU (WN), Dan TARAPI (WN), Jerome HERETUKU (AK), Campbell MAKEA (WN).
Management Team: Coach: Eddie Kohlhase, Assistant coach: Dave Workman,
Pitching coach: Chubb Tangaroa, Technical analyst: Clayton Willocks,
Physiotherapist: Rob Cashman, Manager: Doug Golightly


Men's Fastpitch Softball International Test Series

Hawker International Softball Centre
Walhallow Street, Hawker ACT
Wednesday 8 December - Friday 10 December 2010

Wednesday 8 December
Australia Gold v Australia Green, Argentina v New Zealand, Australia Green v Argentina,New Zealand v Australia Gold.

Thursday 9 December
New Zealand v Australia Green, Australia Gold v Argentina, Australia Green v Australia Gold, New Zealand v Argentina.

Friday 10 December
Australia Green v New Zealand, Argentina v Australia Gold, Argentina v Australia Green, Australia Gold v New Zealand. Play-offs.


 

Heinie Shannon called into Black Sox

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10 November
BATTLE hardened pitcher Heinie Shannon has been called into the Black Sox squad.

Shannon – who is part of the wider Black Sox squad – will replace Regan Manley who has withdrawn from the team for personal reasons.

The evergreen 35-year-old Auckland player will join Thomas Cameron and Shaun Jamieson as the frontline pitchers on the upcoming tour to Australia at the beginning of December.

Shannon will take part in one-day camp in Palmerston North this Sunday alongside twin brother Patrick as the Black Sox pitchers and catchers fine-tune their combinations under the watchful eyes of coaches Dave Workman and Chubb Tangaroa.

The 23 man Black Sox squad will then assemble in Christchurch on Friday December 3 before leaving for the Australian international series on December 6.

Details of the Black Sox plans for Christchurch and the itinerary for Australia will be released next week.


 

Anti Doping Information Methylhexaneamine

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9 November
 

• Methylhexaneamine — Forthan — 2-hexanamine 4-methyl-
• Methylhexanamine —Floradrene — 2-hexanamine, 4-methyl- (9CI)
• DMAA — 4-methyl-2-hexanamine — 1,3-dimethylamylamine
• Geranamine — 4-Methylhexan-2-amine 1 — 3-dimethylpentylamine
• Forthane — 2-amino-4-methylhexane — Pentylamine, 1, 3-dimethyl-
   

• Flower oil extract (geranium)
• Geranium oil extract
   

1. Weight loss supplements (i.e. drink powders / pills which are promoted to enhance fat or weight loss). These supplements often used to contain ephedra, which is also listed on the WADA banned substance list.
2. Pre-exercise ‘stimulant’ supplements – frequently promoted and sold within body building circles as a pre-exercise ‘boost’ to enhance training.
    

 

Black Sox Team for test series vs Australia

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19 October
 

There is a new-look to the Black Sox softball team for the up-coming test series against Australia. From the team that lost in the world championship final to Australia last year just four players - Rhys Casley, who will captain the team, Brad Rona, Patrick Shannon and Ben Enoka remain. "We are in a development phase of a new campaign, historically the Black Sox only ever pick their best team every four years and we see no reason not to continue with this logic," Black Sox coach Eddie Kohlhase said. "Whilst some regulars have missed selection for this tour we have a group of 40 identified squad members whom are all committed to the goal of raising the bar to ensure the Black Sox keep evolving." While there are four players from last year's team remaining, Kohlhase has also recalled Thomas Cameron, Tyson Byrne, Regan Manley, Bernard Hale and Wayne Laulu who have all had time in the Black Sox team in the past four years. The new-comers to the side are Te Wera Bishop, Shaun Jamieson, Aaron Kuru, David Butler, Bobby King, Dan Tarapi, Campbell Makea and Jerome Heretuku.

Black Sox Captain Rhys Casley

Of those eight the biggest surprise is perhaps the inclusion of the 17-year-old Bishop, who will be the back-up catcher to Shannon. The series in Australia is an opportunity for the Wellington youngster to learn from the experienced Shannon.

The team will assemble in Christchurch on December 2, and depart for Sydney four days later. The series is from December 8-10.

It is hoped that while the team is in Christchurch they will play against Argentina before heading to Australia, but that is yet to be confirmed.
 

Pitchers Regan MANLEY (HB) Shaun JAMIESON (HV) Thomas Cameron (WN)	Catchers Te Wera BISHOP (WN) Pat SHANNON (AK)
Infielders Tyson BYRNE (HV) Rhys CASLEY (c) (HV) Brad RONA (vc) (NH) Aaron KURU (HB) David BUTLER (HV) Bobby KING (AK)	Outfielders Bernard HALE (AK) Ben ENOKA (AK) Wayne LAULU (WN) Dan TARAPI (WN) Jerome HERETUKU (AK) Campbell MAKEA (WN)

 
 

Black Sox impose one-strike drug policy

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24 August

Black Sox management have imposed a "zero-tolerance" drug policy and warned any player caught smoking cannabis will be banned from the 2013 world men's softball championships in Auckland.
The tough, new stance was announced at a national coaching conference in Wellington at the weekend by new Black Sox manager Doug Golightly.
"Everyone in this room knows that our sport is mired in this illegal and sickening swamp," Golightly, an Auckland-based sports media personality, said. "We are demanding that our Black Sox players are drug-free."
Wellington catcher Aaron Neemia missed the 2009 world championships in Canada after he was banned for 18 months for a second positive cannabis test administered by Drug Free Sport New Zealand. Former Black Sox pitcher Thomas Cameron and provincial player Steven Manson were also suspended for two months in 2009 for cannabis breaches.
Golightly and head coach Eddie Kohlhase have now brought in a one-strike-is-out policy.
"Let me state quite clearly and openly that if one of our players is caught smoking dope or tests positive for dope then that player will not be eligible for the 2013 world championships," Golightly said.
"Eddie has made it clear that there is a zero tolerance policy in operation ... No matter their status – senior or rookie – they will be axed."
Team management was prioritising a "great players, great people" philosophy.
"This just won't be a slogan or cliche. It won't just be a catchcry when the Black Sox are on tour. We want this to be a factor that will be associated with the Black Sox.
"A key part of that must be, and is, a firm stance on the use of drugs – in particular marijuana, dope, grass, electric puha, Herekino Green, call it what you will," said Golightly, who explained "Herekino is one of Northland's biggest cash crop areas, just south of Kaitaia".
The new manager said he was "not that naive to believe there will not be some sort of drama for us to sort out".
"It would be good if there wasn't, but despite our protestations and pleas, it's likely there will [be].
"Of course there could be cries of `natural justice', 1 two-month or four-month standdowns in line with Drug Free [New Zealand] policy. But the players will know where they stand."
The cannabis use issue and other aspects of the new philosophy would be outlined at the Black Sox's next camp at the Millennium Institute in Auckland next month.
Each player would be asked to sign a code of conduct, committing themselves to those principles.

Golightly said the Black Sox's world championship record – five gold medals and three silvers – "can be counted among our most successful and significant sporting outfits".
He heralded Kohlhase as "one of New Zealand sport's most respected coaches" and "one of [softball's] best analysts and deeper thinkers".
But he stressed there had to be a reality check for some Black Sox players.
"The Black Sox team is no longer the best in the world. The Black Sox players are no longer world champions ... the Aussies are. That's why the Black Sox have to change." -  by Tony Smith


 

Mark Sorenson honoured

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16 August
 

New Zealand's most decorated softballer Mark Sorenson will receive another honour when the International Softball Congress admits him to the ISC Hall of Fame at the annual championships in Midland, Michigan. Midland was the site of Sorenson's international debut whe the Black Sox won the world title in 1984 when he was only 16. He was unavailable in 1996 when the team won the first of three consecutive titles but was back as captain for the 2000 and 2004 world championship wins. A regular competitor in the States, Sorenson was noted as the only New Zealand batter to consistently thrive in the US title races and he won a reputation for his consistency, his dedication to both his talents and his teams and for his ability to match the US players in all respects. His father David, who led New Zealand to a shared world titile with the US and Canada in 1976 in The Hutt Valley, and his mother Maureen, a noted softball administrator, and his two children are in Midland to see the ceremony.

Black Sox legend Mark Sorenson