Major Sox (Male)
MAJOR SOX WIDER TRAINING SQUAD NAMED
29 July 2024
Head Coach Steven Deans, alongside newly appointed Assistant Coach Craig Wallace, have named a 40-man training squad in preparation for the WBSC U-23 Men's World Cup in 2026. Head Coach Deans is excited with the talent the new crop of Under 23s have to offer.
With the new cycle starting and the end goal being the World Cup, the management team are looking forward to developing the team to be contenders for the next World cup.
Softball New Zealand have aligned the men's program from U15 Developing Sox through to our NZ Black Sox. It gives the U23’s players real opportunities to compete against the worlds best players in their own age group. The exposure to international softball is invaluable and helps bridge the gap to the Black Sox squad.
"We have a number of options available for the team over the next 2 years and we are working closely with Softball NZ to identify the best direction to maximum the groups development. It all starts in the Hutt Valley over Labour Weekend in October where we will be spending time setting goals for the group and begin team bonding and getting to know each other. We will share what is required both physically and mentally to compete at the highest level"
2024 U23 Major Sox Training Squad:
Devon Carr, Oscar Clark, Ryan Earley, Jacob Lee, Shiloh Rice, Luke Roberts, Max Russell, Ethan Shannon, Harrison Wildbore, Traye Wildbore (Auckland), Reuben Elkins, Hapene Kumeroa, Leon Lumb, Jayden Potts, Liam Potts, Hunter Simpson, Jacob Neale (Canterbury), Cohen Bailey, Jayden Priestley (Counties Manukau), Kahu Beamsley-Allen, Nopera Tangaroa (Hawkes Bay), Jax Baldwin, Dallas Clifton, Josh Kennedy, George McCarroll, Josh McCarroll, Tane Mumu, Zahr Shaw-Wallace, Caleb Taylor (Hutt Valley), Jaden Hita (Manawatu), Jesse Fuller, JP Gerbes, Jamieson Graham, Caleb Koko, Jono Little, Levi Wilson (North Harbour), Ciaran Bolger, Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola, Arron Gollan (Wellington), Rikaiah Te Wheoro (Franklin)
U23 MAJOR SOX POSITIONS AVAILABLE
19 April 2024
JOB OVERVIEW
A fantastic opportunity to support the New Zealand U23 Major Sox, supporting Head Coach Steven Deans.
The key focus of this role is to work in conjunction with the head coach to support and develop a high performance culture within the team, and ensure athletes are supported and prepared for selection and elite performance. In collaboration with the Head Coach, you will help align the Major Sox and National Squad programme to the underpinning talent programme and overall Softball NZ high performance strategy. The major focus of the programme is preparation of the Major Sox squad / team for major international events, including the 2026 WBSC World Cup (Venue TBC).
For more information, or to apply please contact the Interim Chief Executive, Vaughan Dennison at vdennison@softball.org.nz
APPLICATIONS CLOSE – 5:00pm Sunday 12th May, a cover letter and CV are required.
- Download MJSX Assistant Coach Job Description here
- Download MJSX Manager Job Description here
- Download MJSX Battery Coach Job Description here
Application Form: Download here
STEVEN DEANS RE-APPOINTED AS HEAD COACH
25 March 2024
Softball New Zealand is delighted to announce the re-appointment of Steven Deans as the NZ Major Sox Head Coach. Deans offers immense experience with over two decades coaching at Senior club, Provincial and with the National Programme. Having held the Under 23 Major Sox position previously, and currently in the NZ Black Sox Assistant Coach role, he has a direct alignment to the New Zealand Black Sox programme.
Deans' professional background is as a business owner/operator in the Manawatu for over a decade. A philanthropist and supporter of grassroots sport in the region, Deans has been involved in softball since 1982, and remains passionate about developing talent within the men's pathway and building teams to achieve success on the world stage.
We are thrilled to have Steven lead our Major Sox programme again.
Softball New Zealand is delighted to announce the re-appointment of Steven Deans as the NZ Major Sox Head Coach. Deans offers immense experience with over two decades coaching at Senior club, Provincial and with the National Programme. Having held the Under 23 Major Sox position previously, and currently in the NZ Black Sox Assistant Coach role, he has a direct alignment to the New Zealand Black Sox programme.
Deans' professional background is as a business owner/operator in the Manawatu for over a decade. A philanthropist and supporter of grassroots sport in the region, Deans has been involved in softball since 1982, and remains passionate about developing talent within the men's pathway and building teams to achieve success on the world stage.
We are thrilled to have Steven lead our Major Sox programme again.
WBSC World Cup Statistics
| 2022/23 NZ Major Sox WBSC World Cup | |||||||||||||||||
| Batting Statistics | |||||||||||||||||
| Player | G | R | PA | AB | BB | SH | SF | HP | H | 2B | 3B | HR | RBI | SO | SB | CS | BA |
| Damon Creasy | 8 | 4 | 25 | 20 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 6 | 0 | 1 | .350 |
| Brock Attewell | 8 | 6 | 25 | 21 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 6 | 1 | 0 | .333 |
| Brock Evans | 7 | 2 | 23 | 22 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 0 | .318 |
| Huw Davies | 7 | 3 | 24 | 22 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 8 | 1 | 0 | .273 |
| Tane Mumu | 8 | 7 | 29 | 22 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 2 | 0 | .136 |
| Max Earley | 8 | 0 | 19 | 17 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 7 | 1 | 0 | .118 |
| Min 18PA | |||||||||||||||||
| Joshua Lubiejewski | 4 | 2 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | .500 |
| Xaviar Sage (Herrick) | 7 | 3 | 13 | 11 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 0 | .364 |
| Caleb Stewart | 2 | 0 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | .333 |
| Tobias Makisi | 5 | 0 | 10 | 9 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | .222 |
| Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola | 7 | 4 | 15 | 14 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 8 | 3 | 0 | .143 |
| Oscar Clark | 8 | 2 | 15 | 11 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 4 | 0 | .091 |
| Floyd Nola | 7 | 4 | 15 | 12 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 5 | 0 | 0 | .083 |
| Ethan Shannon | 4 | 0 | 9 | 8 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | .000 |
| Liam Potts | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 |
| Taine Slaughter | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 |
| TOTALS | 8 | 37 | 231 | 196 | 22 | 4 | 0 | 9 | 45 | 7 | 2 | 3 | 28 | 66 | 18 | 1 | .230 |
| Pitching Statistics | |||||||||||||||||
| Player | G | BF | W | L | IP | R | ER | H | 2B | 3B | HR | BB | HB | SO | WP | ERA | |
| Liam Potts | 6 | 82 | 2 | 2 | 19 | 8 | 6 | 20 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 23 | 2 | 2.21 | |
| Floyd Nola | 5 | 42 | 0 | 1 | 10.2 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 10 | 1 | 3.28 | |
| Taine Slaughter | 6 | 95 | 2 | 1 | 21.2 | 14 | 12 | 18 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 8 | 1 | 24 | 5 | 3.88 | |
| TOTALS | 8 | 219 | 4 | 4 | 51.1 | 27 | 23 | 45 | 9 | 3 | 3 | 14 | 4 | 57 | 8 | 3.14 | |
| Fielding Statistics | |||||||||||||||||
| Player | G | A | PO | E | PB | SB | CS | FA | |||||||||
| Max Earley | 8 | 5 | 59 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 1 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Huw Davies | 7 | 14 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Damon Creasy | 8 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Taine Slaughter | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Liam Potts | 6 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Oscar Clark | 5 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola | 6 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1.000 | |||||||||
| Brock Attewell | 8 | 2 | 53 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .965 | |||||||||
| Tane Mumu | 8 | 19 | 7 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .963 | |||||||||
| Brock Evans | 7 | 17 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .929 | |||||||||
| Caleb Stewart | 1 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .833 | |||||||||
| Xaviar Sage (Herrick) | 7 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .833 | |||||||||
| Floyd Nola | 6 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .750 | |||||||||
| Joshua Lubiejewski | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 | |||||||||
| Tobias Makisi | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 | |||||||||
| Ethan Shannon | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .000 | |||||||||
| TOTALS | 8 | 68 | 156 | 8 | 0 | 7 | 1 | .966 | |||||||||
Supplied by Carolyn McQueen Team scorer and Chief Statistician Lynnette Leathart
WBSC U23 WORLD CUP KEY INFORMATION
WBSC U-23 Website
Watch all 50 games of the WBSC U-23 Men’s World Cup via Gametime.
A tournament pass for $9.99 (US dollars) will give subscribers access to all 50 games of the tournament, while six-game daily passes will be available for $5.99 each day.
Click here for more info.
MAJOR SOX DRAFT TWO PLAYERS FOR WBSC U23 WORLD CUP IN ARGENTINA
1 March 2023
The New Zealand U23 Major Sox have drafted two players for the WBSC U23 World Cup in Argentina.
Head Coach Steven Deans says “We have added both Tane Mumu and Ethan Shannon to our squad with the withdrawal of Seth Gibson and Kaleb Rona. We are disappointed for both Seth and Kaleb who have been working hard to make the tour but with the campaign cancelled twice has made it too difficult for these two gentlemen to travel. We are excited with the replacements with Ethan Shannon performing with merit at the recent Fastpitch Championship for Auckland and Tane Mumu breakout performance with the Black Sox at the men’s World Cup . Both men are passionate about wearing the silver fern and had no hesitation in committing to the event with only 8 weeks out.”
The New Zealand U23 Major Sox have drafted two players for the WBSC U23 World Cup in Argentina.
Head Coach Steven Deans says “We have added both Tane Mumu and Ethan Shannon to our squad with the withdrawal of Seth Gibson and Kaleb Rona. We are disappointed for both Seth and Kaleb who have been working hard to make the tour but with the campaign cancelled twice has made it too difficult for these two gentlemen to travel. We are excited with the replacements with Ethan Shannon performing with merit at the recent Fastpitch Championship for Auckland and Tane Mumu breakout performance with the Black Sox at the men’s World Cup . Both men are passionate about wearing the silver fern and had no hesitation in committing to the event with only 8 weeks out.”
MAJOR SOX TEAM NAMED FOR WBSC U23 MEN'S WORLD CUP
7 February 2023
With Argentina being named to host the U23 World Cup Coaches Deans and McAlpine have selected the same 16 players that were initially picked for the first cancelled tournament back in October.
The tournament will be played at Nafaldo Cargnel Stadium in Parana, Argentina, from 15-23 April 2023.
Deans says “This group has worked hard both on and off the diamond and have done everything asked to get the team in the best possible shape to perform at the world cup. There has been obvious frustration with 2 cancelled events however the management team have been impressed with the players attitude and now with only 10 weeks out the boys can start with their final preparation with confidence.
“This group has prepared well with 2 camps and playing in the Auckland preseason tournament. We will now reset with group training weekly leading up to games after club nationals with the Squad gathering in Auckland Easter weekend to travel to Argentina” he says.
Canada has been awarded the wild card to participate in the tournament, and join the 11 nations already qualified for the event in 2022 to complete the field of teams:
Africa (1): World No. 11 South Africa
Americas (4): World No. 1 Argentina, No. 8 Mexico, No. 9 Venezuela and No. 13 Guatemala
Asia (2): World No. 2 Japan and No. 15 Singapore
Europe (2): World No. 5 Czech Republic and No. 19 Israel
Oceania (2): World No. 4 Australia and No. 6 New Zealand
Wild Card (1): World No. 3 Canada
Due to the postponement of the event, the age limit for the tournament has been extended to allow all eligible players in 2022 to compete in the tournament in April next year.
The U23 New Zealand Men’s Team to compete at the WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup in Argentina.
Kaleb Rona (North Harbour)
Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola (North Harbour)
Brock Attewell (North Harbour)
Oscar Clark (Auckland)
Huw Davies (Auckland)
Max Earley (Auckland)
Seth Gibson (Auckland)
Floyd Nola (Auckland)
Taine Slaughter (Auckland)
Xaviar Herrick (Auckland)
Brock Evans (Auckland)
Damon Creasy (Wellington)
Tobias Makisi (Wellington)
Liam Potts (Canterbury)
Josh Lubiejewski (Canterbury)
Caleb Stewart (Canterbury)
With Argentina being named to host the U23 World Cup Coaches Deans and McAlpine have selected the same 16 players that were initially picked for the first cancelled tournament back in October.
The tournament will be played at Nafaldo Cargnel Stadium in Parana, Argentina, from 15-23 April 2023.
Deans says “This group has worked hard both on and off the diamond and have done everything asked to get the team in the best possible shape to perform at the world cup. There has been obvious frustration with 2 cancelled events however the management team have been impressed with the players attitude and now with only 10 weeks out the boys can start with their final preparation with confidence.
“This group has prepared well with 2 camps and playing in the Auckland preseason tournament. We will now reset with group training weekly leading up to games after club nationals with the Squad gathering in Auckland Easter weekend to travel to Argentina” he says.
Canada has been awarded the wild card to participate in the tournament, and join the 11 nations already qualified for the event in 2022 to complete the field of teams:
Africa (1): World No. 11 South Africa
Americas (4): World No. 1 Argentina, No. 8 Mexico, No. 9 Venezuela and No. 13 Guatemala
Asia (2): World No. 2 Japan and No. 15 Singapore
Europe (2): World No. 5 Czech Republic and No. 19 Israel
Oceania (2): World No. 4 Australia and No. 6 New Zealand
Wild Card (1): World No. 3 Canada
Due to the postponement of the event, the age limit for the tournament has been extended to allow all eligible players in 2022 to compete in the tournament in April next year.
The U23 New Zealand Men’s Team to compete at the WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup in Argentina.
Kaleb Rona (North Harbour)
Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola (North Harbour)
Brock Attewell (North Harbour)
Oscar Clark (Auckland)
Huw Davies (Auckland)
Max Earley (Auckland)
Seth Gibson (Auckland)
Floyd Nola (Auckland)
Taine Slaughter (Auckland)
Xaviar Herrick (Auckland)
Brock Evans (Auckland)
Damon Creasy (Wellington)
Tobias Makisi (Wellington)
Liam Potts (Canterbury)
Josh Lubiejewski (Canterbury)
Caleb Stewart (Canterbury)
U23 MAJOR SOX TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT
1 March 2022
New Zealand U23 Major Sox coaches Steve Deans and Fergus McAlpine have named 16 players to contest the men’s inaugural WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup, to be held this year from 22-30 October in Parana, Argentina.
12 teams will qualify through the WBSC continental qualifiers, including four teams from the Americas, two from Europe, two from Asia, two from Oceania, one from Africa and a wild card.
Dean’s say’s “We have a mix of players with both speed and power skills and also a high work ethic and the understanding of always putting the team first. Tough decisions were made in certain positions and some very good players missed out.”
“We believe we have selected the best available players, including 10 who have been with this campaign for a while. Eight months out from the tournament we feel cohesion is a key component to success,” Deans said.
The Softball New Zealand President Nicky Sherriff proudly announces the U23 Major Sox Men’s Team to compete at the WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup, 22-30 October in Parana, Argentina.
Te Kirika Cooper -Nicola (North Harbour), Seth Gibson, Taine Slaughter, Max Earley, Brock Attewell, Oscar Clark, Huw Davies, Brock Evans, Kaleb Rona, Xaviar Herrick, Floyd Nola (Auckland), Adam Woon (Hawkes Bay), Damon Creasey, Tobias Makisi (Wellington), Josh Lubiejewski, Caleb Stewart (Canterbury)
New Zealand U23 Major Sox coaches Steve Deans and Fergus McAlpine have named 16 players to contest the men’s inaugural WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup, to be held this year from 22-30 October in Parana, Argentina.
12 teams will qualify through the WBSC continental qualifiers, including four teams from the Americas, two from Europe, two from Asia, two from Oceania, one from Africa and a wild card.
Dean’s say’s “We have a mix of players with both speed and power skills and also a high work ethic and the understanding of always putting the team first. Tough decisions were made in certain positions and some very good players missed out.”
“We believe we have selected the best available players, including 10 who have been with this campaign for a while. Eight months out from the tournament we feel cohesion is a key component to success,” Deans said.
The Softball New Zealand President Nicky Sherriff proudly announces the U23 Major Sox Men’s Team to compete at the WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup, 22-30 October in Parana, Argentina.
Te Kirika Cooper -Nicola (North Harbour), Seth Gibson, Taine Slaughter, Max Earley, Brock Attewell, Oscar Clark, Huw Davies, Brock Evans, Kaleb Rona, Xaviar Herrick, Floyd Nola (Auckland), Adam Woon (Hawkes Bay), Damon Creasey, Tobias Makisi (Wellington), Josh Lubiejewski, Caleb Stewart (Canterbury)
U23 MAJOR SOX MEN'S SQUAD ANNOUNCEMENT
15 April 2021
The Major Sox coaching staff have named a 31-man squad in preparation for the U23 World Cup in November 2022 .This squad will attend a training camp in October 2021 with the final squad of 15 to travel to Argentina being named a month later.
26 players have already been involved with the U23 program with over 20 players coming through from the Junior Black Sox. It’s also great to see two of our youngest squad members Oscar Clarke and Tane Mumu breaking in with strong Club national form.
Deans and McAlpine are excited with the talent available with a large number of players now representing their provinces at the men’s level. The selection of the final squad is an interesting process with several factors to take into account.
We understand the commitment needed by our players to get to Argentina. With our boys now out of school and building careers or in full-time study we need the 18 months ahead to build a competitive squad. There are also 6 players named in the Golden Homes Black Sox squad which added to the importance of clarity with the process over the next 6 months.
Once we have the final squad named in November, we will attend either the PK tournament or Vic Guth in January 2022 with our final camp to prepare for the World Cup in July 2022.
U23 Major Sox Squad:
Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola, Nick Lanigan, (North Harbour), Brock Attewell, Toby Bourgeois, Oscar Clark, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Seth Gibson, Floyd Nola, Kaleb Rona, Taine Slaughter, Ryschan Thompson, Dylan Tonkin, Harrison Wildbore - (Auckland), Adam Woon – (Hawkes Bay), Jared Gillard, Xavier Herrick, Jono Little, Tane Mumu, (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Damon Creasey, Dylan Jackson, Tobias Makisi, Sam Marley, Mardi McBride, Jayden Stratford - (Wellington), Josh Lubiejewski, Caleb Stewart - (Canterbury), Braeden Heslip, Kaemyn Smith, Te Kaanu Te Huia - (Southland)
The Major Sox coaching staff have named a 31-man squad in preparation for the U23 World Cup in November 2022 .This squad will attend a training camp in October 2021 with the final squad of 15 to travel to Argentina being named a month later.
26 players have already been involved with the U23 program with over 20 players coming through from the Junior Black Sox. It’s also great to see two of our youngest squad members Oscar Clarke and Tane Mumu breaking in with strong Club national form.
Deans and McAlpine are excited with the talent available with a large number of players now representing their provinces at the men’s level. The selection of the final squad is an interesting process with several factors to take into account.
We understand the commitment needed by our players to get to Argentina. With our boys now out of school and building careers or in full-time study we need the 18 months ahead to build a competitive squad. There are also 6 players named in the Golden Homes Black Sox squad which added to the importance of clarity with the process over the next 6 months.
Once we have the final squad named in November, we will attend either the PK tournament or Vic Guth in January 2022 with our final camp to prepare for the World Cup in July 2022.
U23 Major Sox Squad:
Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola, Nick Lanigan, (North Harbour), Brock Attewell, Toby Bourgeois, Oscar Clark, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Seth Gibson, Floyd Nola, Kaleb Rona, Taine Slaughter, Ryschan Thompson, Dylan Tonkin, Harrison Wildbore - (Auckland), Adam Woon – (Hawkes Bay), Jared Gillard, Xavier Herrick, Jono Little, Tane Mumu, (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Damon Creasey, Dylan Jackson, Tobias Makisi, Sam Marley, Mardi McBride, Jayden Stratford - (Wellington), Josh Lubiejewski, Caleb Stewart - (Canterbury), Braeden Heslip, Kaemyn Smith, Te Kaanu Te Huia - (Southland)
MAJOR SOX U23 MEN'S SQUAD NAMED
26 August 2020
Coaches Steven Deans and Fergus McAlpine have named a 23 man strong squad to attend a training camp in Palmerston North over Labour weekend.
While a major focus is in preparation for the world championship in the second half of 2021 there will also be a big emphasis on personal development both physically and mentally.
With the cancellation of the Club nationals in March, it seems a long time since the boys have been on the diamond; however this has created more time for the boys to focus on their individual preparation. Deans and McAlpine want to carry on with this preparation work over the weekend.
The Major Sox U23 Squad is: Kaleb Rona (North Harbour), Brock Attewell, Dylan Tonkin, Floyd Nola, Harry Valk, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Seth Bourgeois, Seth Gibson, Taine Slaughter, Toby Bourgeois, Nick Lanigan (Auckland), Adam Woon (Hawkes Bay), Jared Gillard, Xaviar Herrick (Hutt Valley), Damon Creasy, Dylan Jackson, Jayden Stratford, Mardi McBride, Sam Marley, Tobias Makisi, (Wellington), Caleb Stewart, Josh Lubiejewski (Canterbury)
Coaches Steven Deans and Fergus McAlpine have named a 23 man strong squad to attend a training camp in Palmerston North over Labour weekend.
While a major focus is in preparation for the world championship in the second half of 2021 there will also be a big emphasis on personal development both physically and mentally.
With the cancellation of the Club nationals in March, it seems a long time since the boys have been on the diamond; however this has created more time for the boys to focus on their individual preparation. Deans and McAlpine want to carry on with this preparation work over the weekend.
The Major Sox U23 Squad is: Kaleb Rona (North Harbour), Brock Attewell, Dylan Tonkin, Floyd Nola, Harry Valk, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Seth Bourgeois, Seth Gibson, Taine Slaughter, Toby Bourgeois, Nick Lanigan (Auckland), Adam Woon (Hawkes Bay), Jared Gillard, Xaviar Herrick (Hutt Valley), Damon Creasy, Dylan Jackson, Jayden Stratford, Mardi McBride, Sam Marley, Tobias Makisi, (Wellington), Caleb Stewart, Josh Lubiejewski (Canterbury)
MAJOR SOX MEN'S TEAM TO CANADA ANNOUNCED
24 February 2020
Coaches Deans and McAlpine have named a strong New Zealand U23 Major Sox squad for a 10 day tour to Canada in June.
Commencing in Saskatoon, the team will play warm up games against local club sides before traveling to Calgary to compete in a tournament featuring some of the best sides in Canada.
Steven Deans say’s “with just over a year out from the first WBSC U23 World Cup in Argentina, it is important we build a strong foundation and it’s exciting to give this squad an opportunity to develop on an international tour. We also understand the high standards the Black Sox have set and performances they expect every time they hit the diamond, this is the culture we also want to instil in our programme.
The calibre of players coming though is outstanding and the final touring side was incredibly difficult to narrow down to 15, however we are still 15 months out from the World Cup and there are plenty of opportunities for the players left at home to prove their worth.”
New Zealand U23 Major Sox Men’s Team to Canada:
Team is: Brock Attewell, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Seth Gibson, Floyd Nola, Taine Slaughter, Dylan Tonkin (Auckland), Jared Gillard, Xaviar Herrick (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Damon Creasy, Josh Jacobs Tobias Makisi (Wellington), Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Christchurch).
Coaches Deans and McAlpine have named a strong New Zealand U23 Major Sox squad for a 10 day tour to Canada in June.
Commencing in Saskatoon, the team will play warm up games against local club sides before traveling to Calgary to compete in a tournament featuring some of the best sides in Canada.
Steven Deans say’s “with just over a year out from the first WBSC U23 World Cup in Argentina, it is important we build a strong foundation and it’s exciting to give this squad an opportunity to develop on an international tour. We also understand the high standards the Black Sox have set and performances they expect every time they hit the diamond, this is the culture we also want to instil in our programme.
The calibre of players coming though is outstanding and the final touring side was incredibly difficult to narrow down to 15, however we are still 15 months out from the World Cup and there are plenty of opportunities for the players left at home to prove their worth.”
New Zealand U23 Major Sox Men’s Team to Canada:
Team is: Brock Attewell, Huw Davies, Max Earley, Seth Gibson, Floyd Nola, Taine Slaughter, Dylan Tonkin (Auckland), Jared Gillard, Xaviar Herrick (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Damon Creasy, Josh Jacobs Tobias Makisi (Wellington), Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Christchurch).
MAJOR SOX TEAM FOR VIC GUTH AND EXTENDED SQUAD ANNOUNCED
23 December 2019
Major Sox men’s coaches Steve Deans and Fergus McAlpine have named a 12 man squad to attend the 2020 Vic Guth Classic in January.
Both coaches are excited about the challenge given the Vic Guth is a marque club tournament on the New Zealand Softball calendar.
The tournament will be used as a trial, with a 15 man squad being named to tour Canada in 2020.
16 members of the extended Major Sox squad who have not been released by their club teams for the Vic Guth will still be considered for the North American tour.
Deans and McAlpine are excited by the talent pool available. The Vic Guth represents the first event of the Major Sox campaign towards the 2021 World Cup in Argentina.
Major Sox U23 Men’s team to compete in the Vic Guth, Auckland Anniversary Weekend 24-27 January 2020 at Rosedale Park, Albany:
VIC GUTH
Nick Lanigan, Toby Bourgeois (Auckland), Adam Woon, Jacob Zurcher (Hawkes Bay), Xavier Herrick (Hutt Valley), Damon Creasy, Josh Jacobs, Mardi McBride, Sam Marley, Tobias Makisi (Wellington), Bailey Hamilton, Josh Lubiejewski, (Canterbury)
EXTENDED SQUAD
Brock Atwell, Dylan Tonkins, Floyd Nola, Harry Valk, Huw Davies, Kaleb Rona, Max Early, Seth Bourgeois, Ryschan Thompson, Seth Gibson, Taine Slaughter (Auckland), Jared Gillard (Hutt Valley), Dylan Jackson, Jayden Stratford, Josh Merritt, Zac Boyd (Wellington), Callum Bishop (Canterbury)
Major Sox men’s coaches Steve Deans and Fergus McAlpine have named a 12 man squad to attend the 2020 Vic Guth Classic in January.
Both coaches are excited about the challenge given the Vic Guth is a marque club tournament on the New Zealand Softball calendar.
The tournament will be used as a trial, with a 15 man squad being named to tour Canada in 2020.
16 members of the extended Major Sox squad who have not been released by their club teams for the Vic Guth will still be considered for the North American tour.
Deans and McAlpine are excited by the talent pool available. The Vic Guth represents the first event of the Major Sox campaign towards the 2021 World Cup in Argentina.
Major Sox U23 Men’s team to compete in the Vic Guth, Auckland Anniversary Weekend 24-27 January 2020 at Rosedale Park, Albany:
VIC GUTH
Nick Lanigan, Toby Bourgeois (Auckland), Adam Woon, Jacob Zurcher (Hawkes Bay), Xavier Herrick (Hutt Valley), Damon Creasy, Josh Jacobs, Mardi McBride, Sam Marley, Tobias Makisi (Wellington), Bailey Hamilton, Josh Lubiejewski, (Canterbury)
EXTENDED SQUAD
Brock Atwell, Dylan Tonkins, Floyd Nola, Harry Valk, Huw Davies, Kaleb Rona, Max Early, Seth Bourgeois, Ryschan Thompson, Seth Gibson, Taine Slaughter (Auckland), Jared Gillard (Hutt Valley), Dylan Jackson, Jayden Stratford, Josh Merritt, Zac Boyd (Wellington), Callum Bishop (Canterbury)
U23 MAJOR SOX SQUAD NAMED
11 June 2019
Major Sox coaches Steven Deans and Fergus McAlpine have selected a 23 man squad to attend a training camp at the Massey Sports Institute, Palmerston North in September. This camp is in preparation for a tour at the end of 2020 to Argentina. The squad will be reduced to 17 members who will play in one of the NZ Premier Club tournaments in January 2020.
“We are excited to bring this group together with a mix of both experience and youth, with 6 players under 20 years of age. 6 members of the squad have already had international experience being part of the New Zealand B team at the 2019 TAB Challenge Cup,” says Deans.
Deans And McAlpine are looking forward to putting the group through their paces with an eye on the inaugural WBSC U-23 World Cup in 2021 with 16 of the current squad eligible to play.
U-23 Major Sox Squad:
Nick Lanigan, Kaleb Rona (North Harbour), Brock Attewell, Toby Bougeois, Max Earley, Seth Gibson, Josh Kelly, Taine Slaughter, Ryschan Thompson, Harry Valk – (Auckland), Adam Woon – Hawkes Bay, Jared Gillard (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Damon Creasey, Xavier Herrick, Alex Lundon, Dante Matakatea, Sam Marley, Josh Merritt, Jayden Stratford (Wellington), Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Canterbury)
Major Sox coaches Steven Deans and Fergus McAlpine have selected a 23 man squad to attend a training camp at the Massey Sports Institute, Palmerston North in September. This camp is in preparation for a tour at the end of 2020 to Argentina. The squad will be reduced to 17 members who will play in one of the NZ Premier Club tournaments in January 2020.
“We are excited to bring this group together with a mix of both experience and youth, with 6 players under 20 years of age. 6 members of the squad have already had international experience being part of the New Zealand B team at the 2019 TAB Challenge Cup,” says Deans.
Deans And McAlpine are looking forward to putting the group through their paces with an eye on the inaugural WBSC U-23 World Cup in 2021 with 16 of the current squad eligible to play.
U-23 Major Sox Squad:
Nick Lanigan, Kaleb Rona (North Harbour), Brock Attewell, Toby Bougeois, Max Earley, Seth Gibson, Josh Kelly, Taine Slaughter, Ryschan Thompson, Harry Valk – (Auckland), Adam Woon – Hawkes Bay, Jared Gillard (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Damon Creasey, Xavier Herrick, Alex Lundon, Dante Matakatea, Sam Marley, Josh Merritt, Jayden Stratford (Wellington), Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Canterbury)
RESULTS FROM THE MAKASSAR OPEN
| DATE (NZ TIME) | GAME (Streamed) | RESULT | STREAMING | BOX | |
| 14 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Piccadilly | 7-0 | 9.00pm - 11.00pm | View | |
| 15 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Phillipines | 5-0 | 3.15pm - 5.15pm | ||
| 15 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Lakidende | 8-5 | 12.15am - 2.15am 16/10 | View | |
| 16 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Pirates | 8-2 | 3.15pm - 5.15pm | View | |
| 17 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Piccadilly | 7-0 | 3.15pm - 5.15pm | ||
| 17 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Bedford | 3-1 | 7.45pm - 9.45pm | View | |
| 18 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Lakidende | 1-10 |
3.15pm - 5.15pm 19/10 | View | |
| 18 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Phillipines | 3-1 | 2.30am - 4.30am 19/10 | View | |
| 19 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Pirates | 7-0 | 9.15pm - 11.15pm | View | |
| 20 October 2018 | Major Sox vs Lakidende Final |
0-2 | 8.00pm - 10.00pm | ||
Keep up to date via the Makassar Open Facebook page
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 7
21 October, 2018
Today saw the Major Sox take on Lakidende in the final of the Makasaar Open. Unfortunately it didn't go the way of the Major Sox losing 2-0. That being said Sam Marley pitched a great game holding a quality Lakidende hitting line up to 2 runs. However Nik Hayes proved his title as the Black Sox ace and didn't allow the Major Sox to score a run. It's been a great experience for the Major Sox squad and every single member has learned a lot about themselves and how they can improve their game. There is a couple more days left on the tour with a bit of sight seeing before everyone heads home back to N.Z. A big thank you goes out to everyone who has supported us on our journey. Whether it's the people who travelled over to see the team in action and those that have supported us whenever you may be in the world. The team has done themselves and their country proud. This program will continue to endeavor to create pathways for young men in their softball career s. Watch this space for the next exciting adventure.
Top batter went to Jayden Stratford.
Today saw the Major Sox take on Lakidende in the final of the Makasaar Open. Unfortunately it didn't go the way of the Major Sox losing 2-0. That being said Sam Marley pitched a great game holding a quality Lakidende hitting line up to 2 runs. However Nik Hayes proved his title as the Black Sox ace and didn't allow the Major Sox to score a run. It's been a great experience for the Major Sox squad and every single member has learned a lot about themselves and how they can improve their game. There is a couple more days left on the tour with a bit of sight seeing before everyone heads home back to N.Z. A big thank you goes out to everyone who has supported us on our journey. Whether it's the people who travelled over to see the team in action and those that have supported us whenever you may be in the world. The team has done themselves and their country proud. This program will continue to endeavor to create pathways for young men in their softball career s. Watch this space for the next exciting adventure.
Top batter went to Jayden Stratford.
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 6
20 October, 2018
Last game of the round robin and to finish off the Major Sox played Pirates. The had no effect on the Major Sox making the Final, but that didn't stop them putting on a good performance. 7-0 was the final score. Some good team hitting from the starting side kept the score board ticking over, not to mention the aggressive base running which has been a part of their game the whole tournament. Josh Merritt pitched 3 shut out innings and Bailey Hamilton came in and pitched the last two innings. Final tomorrow is against Lakidende at 3pm local time.
Last game of the round robin and to finish off the Major Sox played Pirates. The had no effect on the Major Sox making the Final, but that didn't stop them putting on a good performance. 7-0 was the final score. Some good team hitting from the starting side kept the score board ticking over, not to mention the aggressive base running which has been a part of their game the whole tournament. Josh Merritt pitched 3 shut out innings and Bailey Hamilton came in and pitched the last two innings. Final tomorrow is against Lakidende at 3pm local time.
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 5
19 October, 2018
Today was a little bit different for the Major Sox crew. First game of the day was against Lakidende and it didn't quite go as planned. Lakidende feature a number of Kiwis in their side two of which are current Black Sox - Wayne Laulu and Nik Hayes. Lakidende won the game 10-1 and the experience of the two Black Sox definitely showed.
The Major Sox learned a big lesson in this game and needed to bounce back quickly against the Philippines. The Major Sox came out quickly with a shut down inning from pitcher Sam Marley, followed by a long solo home run from Captain Connor Peden in the bottom of the first. The boys managed to tack on a couple more runs throughout the game eventually winning 3-1. Big story of this game was Sam Marley holding a no hitter all the way through to the 7th inning. Unfortunately a lead off triple from the Philippines ended that quest and lead to them scoring their only run. With Lakidende losing to Bedford earlier in the day and with the Major Sox beating the Philippines, it guarantees the Major Sox a spot in the final on Saturday. The final game of the round robin finishes on Friday, the Major Sox still have the Pirates left to play.
The game between the Philippines and Lakidende will decide who faces the Major Sox on Saturday.
Today was a little bit different for the Major Sox crew. First game of the day was against Lakidende and it didn't quite go as planned. Lakidende feature a number of Kiwis in their side two of which are current Black Sox - Wayne Laulu and Nik Hayes. Lakidende won the game 10-1 and the experience of the two Black Sox definitely showed.
The Major Sox learned a big lesson in this game and needed to bounce back quickly against the Philippines. The Major Sox came out quickly with a shut down inning from pitcher Sam Marley, followed by a long solo home run from Captain Connor Peden in the bottom of the first. The boys managed to tack on a couple more runs throughout the game eventually winning 3-1. Big story of this game was Sam Marley holding a no hitter all the way through to the 7th inning. Unfortunately a lead off triple from the Philippines ended that quest and lead to them scoring their only run. With Lakidende losing to Bedford earlier in the day and with the Major Sox beating the Philippines, it guarantees the Major Sox a spot in the final on Saturday. The final game of the round robin finishes on Friday, the Major Sox still have the Pirates left to play.
The game between the Philippines and Lakidende will decide who faces the Major Sox on Saturday.
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 4
18 October, 2018
Again another successful day for the Major Sox securing another 2 wins. Having completed the first round robin is was time to commence round two.
First game of the day was against Picadilly and the Major Sox won 6-5. In this game it saw the Major Sox having to play from behind for the first time in the tournament. With the score 4-1 in favour of Picadilly, the boys were in need of some inspiration. This came from Adam Woon hitting out of the DP role. A line drive to right field skipping past the right fielder saw Adam round the bases making the game 4-2. With the score still 4-2 heading into the bottom of the 7th, the Major Sox were down to their last 3 outs. But some smart hitting saw 2 runners reach second and third with 2 outs. Up to the plate steps Adam Woon again. A line drive single to right field scored 2 runs and Adam Woon providing another clutch hit. To tiebreaker it went. Picadilly managed to score 1 run, putting the pressure back on the Major Sox. Callum Bishop showed off his experience with a smart slap over the pitcher advancing Lewis Jerard to third and Callum also managed to reach first safely. That brought Curtis Dove to the plate with 0 outs. A fly ball from Curtis found its way to left field scoring Lewis from third. some heads up baserunning from Callum who tagged up and reached second on the play caused the left fielder from Picadilly to throw the ball over the second baseman into right field, allowing Callum Bishop to score easily from Second finishing the game. A mention has to go out to Sam Marley who pitched all 8 of the innings and holding the opposition down enough for his team to get the win. A great comeback from the boys, pleasing their fans who had made the long trek from NZ.
Game 2 of the day was against Bedford from Australia. 5-1 was the final score and again Adam Woon provided the inspiration by pitching all 7 innings. A good team effort from all who took the field and capping another successful day by remaining undefeated.
First game of the day was against Picadilly and the Major Sox won 6-5. In this game it saw the Major Sox having to play from behind for the first time in the tournament. With the score 4-1 in favour of Picadilly, the boys were in need of some inspiration. This came from Adam Woon hitting out of the DP role. A line drive to right field skipping past the right fielder saw Adam round the bases making the game 4-2. With the score still 4-2 heading into the bottom of the 7th, the Major Sox were down to their last 3 outs. But some smart hitting saw 2 runners reach second and third with 2 outs. Up to the plate steps Adam Woon again. A line drive single to right field scored 2 runs and Adam Woon providing another clutch hit. To tiebreaker it went. Picadilly managed to score 1 run, putting the pressure back on the Major Sox. Callum Bishop showed off his experience with a smart slap over the pitcher advancing Lewis Jerard to third and Callum also managed to reach first safely. That brought Curtis Dove to the plate with 0 outs. A fly ball from Curtis found its way to left field scoring Lewis from third. some heads up baserunning from Callum who tagged up and reached second on the play caused the left fielder from Picadilly to throw the ball over the second baseman into right field, allowing Callum Bishop to score easily from Second finishing the game. A mention has to go out to Sam Marley who pitched all 8 of the innings and holding the opposition down enough for his team to get the win. A great comeback from the boys, pleasing their fans who had made the long trek from NZ.
Game 2 of the day was against Bedford from Australia. 5-1 was the final score and again Adam Woon provided the inspiration by pitching all 7 innings. A good team effort from all who took the field and capping another successful day by remaining undefeated.
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 3
17 October, 2018
Another successful day for the Major Sox crew picking up another 2 wins. First game of the day was against Pirates, another local side from Makasaar. We took out the game 8-2, with Adam Woon pitching a great game and also hitting a 3 run homerun to help himself out. Bailey Hamilton also hit a homerun and Jayden Stratford showing his speed with another inside the park homerun. Game 2 for the day was against Bedford from Australia. We managed to get the job done with a 3-1 victory and some Outstanding pitching from Josh Merritt. Bats were a little quiet in this game, but some patient hitting and good defence was enough to get the job done.
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 2
16 October, 2018
Another successful day getting 2 wins. First we played the Philippines men's national side beating them 5-1. Both Adam and Sam pitched well in that game. Wasn't our best performance but we did enough to get across the line. Game 2 of the day was against Lakidende, which featured a number of Kiwis including current Black Sox members Nik Hayes and Wayne Laulu. We won the game 8-5. Helped out by a 2 run home run from Connor. Some great fielding and baserunning from Curtis and Callum also played a massive part in the victory, not to mention some great hustle shown by Jayden managing to circle the bases on a fielding error by the Lakidende outfielder. Sam pitched again and managed his way through some quality hitters.
MANAGER UPDATES - DAY 1
15 October, 2018
Tournament has begun! The boys were presented with their uniforms by Nik Hayes and Wayne Laulu. Day 1 we had opening ceremony which was delayed 1 hour to 3 pm. Lots of singing and dancing and the teams joined with the dancing at the end. Although very warm the boys got up and danced as well.
Game 1 we played a local team Piccadilly. They had Canadian pitcher Jeff Ferion and 3 Japanese players. The boys started with the Hama which the crowd loved. We won 7-0.
We were invited to dinner with the mayor of Makassar who arranged buses and a police escort to take us to him at the closing ceremony of the International Forum 8 at Losari Beach. We dined on bbq fresh fish and were treated like royalty. After eating the Local police flanked us on both sides to take us to the main stage where we watched a fashion show and a local band play. People of Makassar are amazing and so friendly.
Today we play Philippine at 10.15am local time and then local side Lakidende at 7.15pm. There are a lot of kiwis in the Lakidende team including Nik Hayes. Both games will be exciting.
The weather is extremely hot and the boys are adjusting well. The accommodation is great and all teams are staying here too.
Cheers
Margaret Marsh
Team Manager
MAJOR SOX U23'S OFF TO INDONESIA
10 October 2018
The Major Sox will fly out to Indonesia today after a successful camp in September where the squad gathered for fitness testing and 2 games against Auckland club sides. Coaches Deans and McAlpine are confident of a positive showing when they attend the Makassaar Men’s Open.
The field is made up of 2 senior national teams, Philippines and Singapore. There are club sides from Canada, Australia and Malaysia which will add to the international flavour of the tournament.
We expect tough competition which is exactly what this programme needs to help our players develop and reach their full potential. We have a young pitching staff which will all be eligible for next year's team and will benefit from facing international calibre hitters.
We will be looking to Captain Connor Peden and Callum Bishop who trialled last year for the Golden Homes Black Sox for leadership and stability throughout the tour.
The team lands on Thursday and prepares with one warm up game on Friday evening against a local club side.
Major Sox Team to compete in the Makassaar Men’s Open, 15-23 October
Blake Radford (North Harbour), Conor Peden – Captain, Toby Bourgeois, Jordan Tahana, Lewis Gerard (Auckland) Sam Marley, Jayden Stratford, Josh Merritt, Alex Lundon, Callum Carson (Wellington), Adam Woon, Xavier Herrick (Hawkes Bay), Curtis Dove, Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Canterbury).
MAJOR SOX TEAM TO INDONESIA ANNOUNCED
15 May, 2018
Major Sox U23’s Head Coach Steven Deans have named a 15 man roster to attend the Makassaar Men’s Open in October. The squad includes four returning players from the team that competed at the 2017 U23 Australian State Championships.
Deans says ”we are excited about the talent coming through with 7 players under 20 years of age and a mix of provincial representation from across the country”.
The team will be captained by the experienced Connor Peden who will look for guidance from fellow Golden Homes Black Sox trialist Callum Bishop. The team will attend a weekend camp in September in preparation for the Indonesian tour.
Major Sox Team to compete in the Makassaar Men’s Open, 15 - 23 of October
Conor Peden – Captain, Harrison Valk, Toby Bourgeois, Jordan Tahana, Lewis Gerard (Auckland) Sam Marley, Jayden Stratford, Josh Merritt, Alex Lundon (Wellington), Adam Woon, Xavier Herrick (Hawkes Bay), Curtis Dove, Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Canterbury)
Major Sox U23’s Head Coach Steven Deans have named a 15 man roster to attend the Makassaar Men’s Open in October. The squad includes four returning players from the team that competed at the 2017 U23 Australian State Championships.
Deans says ”we are excited about the talent coming through with 7 players under 20 years of age and a mix of provincial representation from across the country”.
The team will be captained by the experienced Connor Peden who will look for guidance from fellow Golden Homes Black Sox trialist Callum Bishop. The team will attend a weekend camp in September in preparation for the Indonesian tour.
Major Sox Team to compete in the Makassaar Men’s Open, 15 - 23 of October
Conor Peden – Captain, Harrison Valk, Toby Bourgeois, Jordan Tahana, Lewis Gerard (Auckland) Sam Marley, Jayden Stratford, Josh Merritt, Alex Lundon (Wellington), Adam Woon, Xavier Herrick (Hawkes Bay), Curtis Dove, Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Canterbury)
AUSTRALIAN U23 CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS
3 July
Click here for progress of the Major Sox and Temperzone Junior Black Sox in Redlands Australia.
MAJOR SOX MEN ANNOUNCE MANAGEMENT AND TEAM ROSTER FOR AUSTRALIAN U23 CHAMPIONSHIP
3 May
Newly appointed Major Sox Men’s Head Coach Steve Deans has been a busy man over the last week with the appointment of his Team Manager, Assistant Coach and naming of the inaugural U23 Men’s National Team.
Mt Albert Ramblers Premier Men’s Assistant Coach, Fergus McAlpine will assist Deans on the coaching front while NFC Wellington Storm Manager Margaret Marsh will undertake the managerial duties. Deans is excited to have the management team complete allowing the team to prepare for the upcoming Australian U23 Championships in Queensland, 5 – 8th July.
Deans and McAlpine in conjunction with Thomas Makea and Mark Sorenson have named a 15 man team to prepare for the U23 Championships. This new and exciting development will bridge the gap between the Junior and Senior Men’s programmes and allow players further opportunities on the international stage.
The Major Sox will train alongside Golden Homes Black Sox players within the regions as both teams work towards their respective tournaments in July.
The Softball New Zealand President Nicky Sherriff proudly announces the New Zealand Major Sox Team to compete in the Australian U23 Championships in Queensland, 5 – 8th July.
Blake Radford, Vincent Harris, Taylor Hick, Pita Rona (North Harbour), Maddix Rice, Eruera Drage, Daniel Chapman, Connor Peden, Rhys Evans (Auckland), Brad Worsley (Hutt Valley), Zac Boyd, Dante Matakatea (Wellington), Callum Bishop, Bailey Hamilton (Canterbury) and Tim Campbell (Southland).
MAJOR SOX U23 MEN’S HEAD COACH ANNOUNCEMENT
12 April
Softball New Zealand is pleased to announce Steve Deans as the Head Coach of the Major Sox U23 Men’s Team.
Deans will lead the planning and coaching of the U23 Squad through preparation for the Australian U23 Championships, which will be held in Queensland in July 2017.
In addition to the Australian tour a national camp will be held in October 2017.
The Major Sox will see identified athletes between 19-23 in an annual periodised program that supports their development from Junior Black Sox toward the possibility of playing for the Black Sox.
Deans was an obvious choice given his experience both as a player and a coach. The former Hutt Valley Dodgers catcher progressed from player to coach and in doing so winning the Open Men’s National Championship in 2015/16 and the Vic Guth title earlier this year. Deans has led the Hutt Valley NFC Men’s team over the last 3 years.
“This is an exciting opportunity to work with a young group of men that are the future of our game. I aim to give them the best possible tools and hopefully one day earn the chance to represent the country at the senior level” Dean’s says.