The next franchise announced for this year’s Peta Edebone Cup competition is the Purple Haze.

At the forefront of the Purple Haze’s push to claim the 2019 title will be the franchise’s marquee player, Jess Bahn.

Bahn told SV Media she’s excited to be appointed as one of the four ambassadors for the revamped Peta Edebone Cup and is looking forward to the prospect of competing amongst some of the best softball talent in Victoria.

“I think as a league we can set a high standard for softball in our state.” She said.

“This league is invite only, meaning the best women are playing and I think that creates an environment of healthy competition.

“Girls will strive to make one of these teams one day, and veterans will fight to keep their spots over young up and comers.”

“I’m excited to play great softball against and beside talented athletes more often. Hopefully if Australia qualifies for the Olympics we will only get more attention in the community moving forward.”

Leading by example, Bahn is excited to instil a strong culture amongst the playing group to ensure prolonged success for years to come.

“I will be keen to get the team together and document our own team values and goals for the season. These [values] will become what we strive to be moving forward – not only this year but in the future years,” Bahn said.

“From my perspective, I will want all the Purple Haze players to show toughness, grit, fight, resilience, passion and a love for the game.”

The 26-year-old believes the competition is the ideal opportunity for up-and-coming players, as well as their more senior counterparts, to hone all facets of their game in preparation for state team representation.

“There has been many people, volunteers who have worked hard over many years to make this league happen. It’s critical to continue building our elite pathway in order to be competitive at the National level.” 

“It’s exciting for the girls and women who get the opportunity to see what it’s like to play at a higher level against state and national players. Building our pool of open level athletes will only improve our sport!”

“We are moving in an exciting direction!”  

Bahn is adamant that the Haze will fight hard for every game and she hopes she can lead by example.

“We will go out there to win every game, fight till the last pitch.”

“We had a younger team last year, hopefully we have many returning players so we can build our game strategy and get to finals this year.”

Team list:

More information regarding franchise reveals, team announcements and general tournament updates will be made available in the coming days.

The Peta Edebone Cup officially gets underway October 13, find out more here.