The Under 14 Boys’ Regional Championships head to Blacktown International Sportspark, starting this Sunday 12th January.

Head Coach Belinda Ainslie is delighted with the team’s preparation and said the group’s passion for softball is “contagious.”

“It’s been great to see the commitment from the leadership group and the younger players,” she said.

“We have seen growth and improvement in our battery program and the fielding has come together well. Offensively the batting work is also showing great signs for our potential.”

This year’s age group has changed from last year’s Under 15 competition, to an Under 14 competition.

Ainslie believes that the team’s wide range of softball experience will hold them in great stead following the change.

“Victoria has a large contingent of players with interstate, national and a few also with international tournament experience under their belts.”

“That experience, coupled with the training and hard work, should certainly make this an interesting tournament,” she added.

The main focus at training has been clear for the group, with teamwork activities and building a strong culture something the team will thrive off.

“The boys are tasked to “practice with purpose” across offensive and defensive work, we continue to work on mastering solid dependable skills,” Ainslie said.

“Our focus has been on solid skill and incorporating collaborative teamwork. It is important that the players all know and trust each other’s abilities,” she added.

The large number of top age players in the team will help lead the first year national players. Which Ainslie said is a strong component in helping the group achieve the ultimate success in Blacktown.

“We have a large number of top age players in the group, and the team will look for them to lead the way, but we also see so much talent in the younger players.”

“In the lead up, we have seen great moments for almost every player individually at different times. I’d suggest the spectators keep their eyes open as the best moments come when the players shine as a team,” she said. 

“There are those who are driven to improve consistently, which inspires those around them to seek the same. They are the leadership voices that are the glue that pull the playing group together, and lift them up in the trying moments.”

“When they really come together at nationals, I am confident we will achieve the results we are aiming for as a group.”

Access the full U14 Boys’ Regional schedule HERE.

Team list:

Stay tuned to Softball Victoria’s website and associated social media channels for updates through the week from Blacktown.