News 2006/2007

3 Jun 2007: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 13 out now!

Off the Bench issue 13 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - always a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 13 (230 KB).

14 May 2007: VSSSA finish third in Perth - Sharni SMS!

UPDATE: Victoria finished third in the Australian School Sports Softball Championship just completed at Mirrabooka, Perth, after going down to Queensland 2-4 in the second semi-final. New South Wales defeated Queensland 6-4 in the Grand Final to take the trophy again. Final placings were: New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia & amp; Australian Capital Territory [Full Results].

An update from Sharni from the School Sport Australia Softball Championships: …we have finished 3rd after the rounds & will come up against qld who came 2nd in the morn. Played a gr8 game against wa 2day 2 win 3rd place, then had a brain explosion against sa - fortunately didn't hurt us, but seriosly ugly! Anita's doing a gr8 job on the mound, paige is hitting in runs & is rock solid on 1st, erin is so flexible & producing results in everything we ask. Tis an improvement, so we r happy & hope 2 finish even higher :-)

9 May 2007: 4 Young Falcons selected in Victorian Girls U16 Squad!

CONGRATULATIONS to 4 young Falcons, Melissa Lindsay, Ashleigh Otter, Emira Sadikay & Tayla Supple, who have been selected to represent Victoria at the 2008 Girls U16 National Championships to be held at West Beach, Adelaide, 13-19 January 2008. The 2008 Victorian Girls U16 Squad comprises: Ruth Addlem (Geelong); Jessica Bahn (Glen Eira); Loryn Batrich (Werribee); Michelle Baxter (Keilor Park); Lindsey Bellew (Glen Eira); Emma Boldeman (Waverley); Charlotte Dillon (Melbourne); Leilah Grant (Keilor Park); Emma Gunn (Waverley); Jessica Hollett (Waverley); Zoe Hughes (Waverley); Melissa Lindsay (Waverley); Breanna Martin (Knox); Gemma Matchett (Waverley); Ashleigh Otter (Waverley); Tarryn Phillips* (Dandenong); Elisha Robinson (Werribee); Micah Ropata (Waverley); Emira Sadikay* (Waverley); Amy Stenniken (Waverley); Tayla Supple (Geelong); Jessica Thompson (Glen Eira); Rachael Thomson (Waverley); Marina Walker (Glen Eira)& Emma Willmott (Geelong). More info can be found at Softball Victoria.

9 May 2007: Young Falcons fighting hard in Perth - Sharni SMS!

The following news from the School Sport Australia Softball Championships currently being played at Mirrabooka, Perth, via Sharni SMS: …we r halfway thru the week & sitting 3rd, which we r reasonably happy with. Lost 2 nsw & act (Don't ask!), drew with qld, beat wa, sa & act. Our falcons girls doing well, anita is doing a gr8 job in the middle, erin is batting fantastically, with 3 safe hits against sa, paige is our captain & doing a gr8 job leading the team on the field. Will give u another update as e head into finals - results on aus school sport website, cheers, sharni. [Results ; School Sport Australia].

After reading Sharni's report, your webmaster, being an old fogey, will need a good lie down to recover!! Many Thanks Sharni!!

1 May 2007: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 12 out now!

Off the Bench issue 12 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - always a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 12 (295 KB).

26 April 2007: Fabulous Falcons selected to represent Australia in University Games!

CONGRATULATIONS to 3 Fabulous Falcons, Amy Borbiro, Chloe Fagan & Sarah Tutchener who have (again) been selected to represent Australia at the World University Games! The World University Games, known as the Universiade, is the pinnacle of university sports. The event, second to the Olympic Games, is an international sporting and cultural festival which is staged every two years. This year's Universiade will take place in Bangkok, Thailand from 8-18 August 2007.

The Australian team comprises: Michelle Andrew (WA); Alex Besanko (SA); Catherine Bishop (SA); Amy Borbiro (Vic); Jenny Bryce (Vic); Toni Dance (Qld); Lauren Daykin (Vic); Chloe Fagan (Vic); Verity Long-Droppert (WA); Jocelyn McCallum (Qld); Ashleigh Medwin (WA) ; Justine Smethurst (Vic); Sarah Tutchener (Vic); Clare Warwick (ACT); Melinda Weaver (Qld). The team officials are: Kere Johanson (WA), Head Coach; Kathy Horton (NSW), Assistant Coach; Rowena Whittle (NSW), Statistician & Sharon Myhre-Davis (Vic), Team Manager. [Softball Australia Announcement].

15 April 2007: Victoria wins U23 Championships!

In the final National Championships for the 2006/2007 season, the Victorian Women's U23 team have won back-to-back National Championships. Victoria defeated Western Australia 3-2 to take the 2007 Joyce Lester Shield in Darwin. The Championships were hosted by the Northern Territory Softball Association. The Victorian team, captained by Falcons' Sarah Tutchener, included Chloe Fagan & Dale Stocker.

The results of the games played were: Tuesday 10 April, WA d. Vic 2-1; Wednesday 11 April, Vic d. SA 7-1, Vic d. NT 11-0, Vic d. NSW Country 9-1; Thursday 12 April, Vic d. NSW 8-0, Qld d. Vic 7-6; Finals: Vic d. NSW 8-0; Vic d. WA 1-0. Championship Final: Vic d. WA 3-2.

10 April 2007: WSA Easter Carnival Results!

CONGRATULATIONS to all of the Falcons players who played in the finals of the Waverley Softball Association Easter Carnival! The Easter Carnival was played over 4 days of perfect weather. Three Waverley Redsox teams (U12, U14 & U16) won their respective Cup Final matches. An excellent result! Eleanor Dowd, Lisa Lentini & Lauren Passarelli helped Waverley U12 Redsox defeat North Shore 9-8. Katrina Johns & Emily Papadimitriou helped Waverley U14 Redsox defeat Torrens Valley Redsox 4-3. Melissa Lindsay, Ashleigh Otter & Emira Sadikay helped Waverley U16 Redsox defeat Sunstate Wanderers 8-6. Congratulations also to the young Falcons in the Waverley U12 Bluesox team who narrowly lost their Plate final to the ACT Jaguars 9-10. Each of these games was tight and undoubtedly resulted in heightened tension as the games progressed.

3 April 2007: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 11 out now!

Off the Bench issue 11 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 11 (424 KB).

25 March 2007: Falcons win 3 Premierships!

Congratulations to each of the 4 Falcons teams which played in the Grand Final round on Saturday 24 March 2007. Three teams, A Grade, A Reserve & Secondary Division 1 won Premierships. B Reserve finished Runners-up for the season. A Grade reversed last years's loss to Brandon Park with a 3-0 win. Ilsa Wakeling controlled the game with superb pitching. Keryn Ralph made the break with the batting with a strong hit to the boundary. A Reserve, coached by Keryn Ralph, won their third premiership in succession, defeating Glen Heights 4-2. Never before in the history of the club has a Falcons' team won 3 premierships in succession! Secondary Division 1 defeated Syndal. B Reserve succumbed to a stronger Glen Waverley 5-11.

For several young Falcons, the Premiership winning way began very early in the day. Christina Brassachio, Abby Burns, Sarah Cerchi, Elyshia Poon & Emira Sadikay playing for Caulfield Grammar School's First Softball team defeated Wesley College 5-4. Caulfield, led by Sarah (C) pitching, fought back from being down 0-2 to take the APS trophy for the second year in succession. For Emira, this premiership was the first of 4 for the day! Emira also played in the Sec. Div. 1, A Reserve & A Grade Premiership teams. Abby was named in the Sec. Div. 1 Premiership team. Sarah played in the A Reserve Premiership team.

Update: The annual match between the Australian Public Schools (APS) and the Victorian Secondary Schoolgirls (VSSSA) softball teams was played under lights at Waverley Softball Association. The APS team, captained by Sarah Cerchi and included Emira Sadikay, defeated the VSSSA team 5-4 in a rain shortened match. The VSSSA team included Erin Dunstan, Paige Farrell & Anita Marchionna.

 WSA Ladders - 2006/2007 season - end of season.

14 March 2007: Falcons perform well in Peta Edebone Medal awards!

Several Falcons have performed well in the inaugural Waverley Softball Association Peta Edebone Medal award! The Peta Edebone Medal was awarded to Andrea McKenner of Glen Waverley who recived 24 points. Falcons A Grade star, Sarah Tutchener was runner-up with 21 points, followed by Amy Borbiro in 6th place with 11 points. Ilsa Wakeling, who only played 5 games this season, finished 11th with 9 points. Other Falcons to feature in the scoring were Caroline Ziada, Dale Stocker, Alexandra Junor, Shannon Campbell, Chloe Fagan, Raelene Jeffrey & Kerryn Ralph. Congratulations to all for their contribution to A Grade throughout the season.

 Peta Edebone Medal - complete list of votes (72 KB).

8 March 2007: Young Falcons selected in VSSSA Team!

Congratulations to 3 young Falcons who have been selected to represent Victoria in the Victorian Secondary Schools Sports Association team: Erin Dunstan, Paige Farrell & Anita Marchionna. The team will be coached by Falcons legend Sharni Arthur. This years carnival will be played at Mirrabooka, WA, 5 - 12 May. Paige will be familiar with the ground having recently played there in January with the Victorian Women's U19 team. This time round the weather is likely to be much more pleasant than it was in January when the temperature reached 43°C!

The full team is: Samantha Allen, Simone Beales, Emily Curcio, Erin Dunstan, Hayley Farrell, Paige Farrell, Ashleigh Guest, Mikaela Hayes, Anita Marchionna, Jessica McDonald, Lauar McLennan, Breanna Natoli, Sarah Noonan, Kimberley Quince, Elyssa Wright. Coaches are Sharni Arthur & Erin Cugley.

2 March 2007: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 10 out now!

Off the Bench issue 10 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 10 (457 KB).

1 February 2007: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 9 out now!

Off the Bench issue 9 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 9 (567 KB).

31 January 2007: Australian Women's U19 Team for ISF VIII Jnr World Games Selected!

The Australian Under 19 Women's Team for the International Softball Federation (ISF) Junior Women's World Championship has been named. The Championship will be held in Enschede, Netherlands, from 20-30 June 2007.

The team comprises: Alison Bourne (NSW); Sarah Bradley (NSW); Carly Cheesman (Vic); Clare Currie (ACT); Nicole Deegenaars (NSW); Ashleigh Deen (NSW); Chelsea Forkin (WA); Renee Gloss (NSW); Leigh Godfrey (WA); Monica Gray (Vic); Nikki Hollett (Vic); Verity Long-Droppert (WA); Nikki Pallister (ACT); Kaia Parnaby (NSW); Sheree Schenk (SA); Brooke Spence (Qld); Erin Thras (Qld). The coach is Leeanne Evans. Reserves: Jackie Di Siervi (Vic); Ashleigh Medwin (WA); Jenna Richards (ACT); Jade Wall (Qld); Belinda White (SA).

The team will play as the Starz at the final round of the Women's National League in Sydney from 23-25 February and will play against China in an international series in April (dates and venue to be confirmed).

30 January 2007: Young Falcons play in 2007 KFC Australia Day Carnival Finals!

The 2007 KFC Australia Day Carnival has run its course with several young Falcons players playing in the finals. Congratulations to Eleanor Dowd, Lisa Lentini & Lauren Passarelli for their part in the Waverley Girl's U12 Redsox team winning the Girls U12 Cup Final. Waverely defeated Phoenix 5-1. Congratulations also to Katrina Johns & Emily Papadimitriou who played for Waverley Girls U14 Redsox. Waverley were runners-up to Canberra Gold in the Girls U14 Cup Final. Congratulations also to Melissa Lindsay, Ashleigh Otter & Emira Sadikay who played for Waverley Girls U16 Redsox. Waverley were runners-up to Canberra Gold in the Girls U16 Cup Final.

29 January 2007: NSW dominate 2007 Elinor McKenzie Shield!

The 2007 Australian Women's Under 19 Fastpitch Championship (Elinor McKenzie Shield) has been won by New South Wales. The championship was played at Mirrabooka, WA, 21-27 January 2007 in extremely hot weather conditions. NSW lost only one game in the preliminary rounds of the championship then defeated Victoria 2-0 in the semi-final before crushing Western Australia 6-0 in the Grand Final. Victoria finished in 4th place, winning only 6 games from the 13 played. Victoria's results in the preliminary rounds were: Vic d. Tas 7-0; Vic d. WA 9-1; SA d. Vic 8-5; Qld d. Vic 8-2; NSW d. Vic 3-1; Vic d. ACT 4-2; Vic d. WA 7-2; SA d. Vic 5-3; Vic d. Qld 6-3; Vic d. Tas 9-2; ACT d. Vic 4-0; NSW d. Vic 7-6 (8 innings after a 2 RBI home run by Lauren Olsen forced the tie-breaker). After the preliminary rounds 4 teams were equal on 12 points each. South Australia, having defeated Victoria twice, protested and Victoria was placed in 5th position. However, Victoria successfully lodged a counter protest and had their position in the playoff re-instated.

Several highlights during the preliminary rounds involved Falcons players: Chloe Fagan took a sensational running with the flight of the ball catch beyond second base before crashing heavily to the ground with ball in glove; Chloe (again) demonstrated her determination to make an out at first base and "ironed out" the batter just short of the base, then shrugged off the very heavy bump as if nothing had happened; Cal (the "chiropractor") Ziada ran down a runner who had feinted at running home and then could not run back to third fast enough as Cal ran from the plate to offer a free spinal alignment. Championship MVP and Best Batter was Chelsea Forkin (WA); Best Pitcher was Sarah Bradley (NSW). Your webmaster's tip for MVP for Victoria is Monica Gray, whose batting, base-running & fielding at centre field was exemplary! [Update: Monica has now been selected in the Australian U19 team to play in the ISF Jnr World Championship].

So extreme were the weather conditions at Mirrabooka during the last few days teams took 20 minute breaks out of the dugouts to cool down! Shortly after the finish of the semi-finals, a bushfire broke out in nearby parkland which forced the closure of the adjoining Reid Highway!

The Victorian Women's U19 2007 State Team comprises: Danielle Baxter (Keilor Park), Simone Beales (Knox), Carly Bell (Knox), Sarah Cerchi (Waverley), Carly Cheeseman (Waverley), Stephanie Davis (Waverley), Jackie DiSiervi (Glen Eira), Chloe Fagan (Geelong), Paige Farrell (Knox), Monica Gray (Waverley), Ashleigh Guest (Keilor Park), Nikki Hollett, Caitlin Lewis (Glen Eira), Lauren Olsen, Dale Stocker (Waverley) & Caroline Ziada (Waverley). Staff are: Nigel Mackey (Coach - Casey); Chris James (Assistant Coach - Waverley); Kylie Bloodworth (Assistant Coach - Waverley); Karen Fogarty (Manager - Knox); James Giles (Statistician - Dandenong); Jo Paez (Pitching Coach - Waverley).

19 January 2007: Queensland takes 2007 Esther Deason Shield! [UPDATED]

The 2007 Australian Under 16 Girls Fastpitch Championship has been won by Queensland at Downey Park, Queensland. Seven teams (ACT, NSW, Qld, SA, Tas, Vic and WA) competed for the Esther Deason Shield. Tournament favourite, New South Wales, suffered only 1 loss, to Victoria during the preliminary rounds. However, Queensland outplayed Victoria in the semi-final, winning 2-0. Queensland then went on to defat New south Wales 3-2 in the Grand Final.

Congratulations to 2 fledgling Falcons Emira Sadikay & Tayla Supple who helped steer Victoria into the finals under the watchful eye of former Falcons A Grade champion Kirsty Jennings (Asst. Coach). During the preliminary rounds, Victoria's results were: Vic def Tas 6-2; Vic def ACT 8-3; NSW def Vic 5-3; Vic def SA 9-1; Vic def WA 3-2; Vic def Qld 2-1; Vic def Tas 11-3; Vic def ACT 4-0; Vic def WA 3-2; Qld def Vic 6-0. See below for the ladder at the end of the preliminary rounds.

Award Winners at the championship were as follows: MVP: Abigail Priolo (Qld); Best Batter: Stacey Webber (Qld); Best Pitcher: Simone Freeman (NSW).

The Victorian Girl's U16 2007 State Team comprises: Eliza Barnes (Glen Eira); Michelle Baxter (Keilor Park); Emily Curcio (Waverley); Hayley Farrell (Knox); Alison Ferguson (Glen Eira); Leilah Grant (Keilor Park); Emma Gunn (Waverley); Mikaela Hayes (Glen Eira); Zoe Hughes (Waverley); Emira Sadikay (Waverley); Emily Smethurst (Waverley); Tayla Supple (Geelong); Jessy Trengrove (Waverley); Jenn Vandoorn (Knox); Marina Walker (Glen Eira); Victoria Warwick (Keilor Park). Staff are: Erin Cugley (Waverley) - Coach; Kirsty Jennings (Waverley) - Assistant Coach; Kerryn Bell (Knox) - Manager.

18 January 2007: Preliminary AIS Squad selected for 2007!

A preliminary Australian Institute of Sport Women's softball squad has been selected for 2007. To date, 18 players have been named in the Squad. Other athletes will be added to the squad after the International Series against China which will be held 13-14 April 2007 at Redlands, Brisbane and 20-21 at Blacktown Olympic Park, Sydney. An AIS Induction Camp will be held 2-3 February 2007 for the players that have been selected at Downey Park, Queensland.

The present squad comprises: Sandra Allen (Qld); Jodie Bowering (Qld); Kylie Cronk (Qld); Kelly Hardie (Qld); Danica Howlett (NSW); Kate Judd (ACT); Jocelyn McCallum (Qld); Zara Mee (NSW); Simmone Morrow (NSW); Tracey Mosley (Qld); Stacey Porter (NSW); Kate Quigley (Vic); Danielle Stewart (Qld); Natalie Titcume (Vic); Kym Tollenaere (Qld); Natalie Ward (NSW); Melinda Weaver (Qld); Belinda Wright (NSW).

13 January 2007: Queensland win 2007 Australian Open Women's Championship (Gilley's Shield)!

The first of several Australian championship series, the 2007 Australian Open Women's Fastpitch Championship (Gilley's Shield), has just concluded at Blacktown Olympic Park, NSW. Queensland defeated New South Wales 2-1 to take the shield for the second year in succession [final report].

At the end of the preliminary rounds Queensland, Victoria, Western Australia & New South Wales headed the ladder. Congratulations to 3 Fabulous Falcons Amy Borbiro, Raelene Jeffrey & Sarah Tutchener who helped steer Victoria into the finals. Tournament favourite, Queensland, suffered only 1 loss, to Victoria. During the preliminary rounds, Victoria's results were: Vic d. WA 8-1; Vic d. Tas/NT 4-2; Vic d. SA 4-0; NSW d. Vic 6-5; Qld d. Vic (8-1); Vic d. ACT (4-3, 9 innings); Vic d. NSW (4-0); Vic d. Tas/NT (13-1); Vic d. SA (5-1); Vic d. WA (3-1); Vic d. Qld (2-0); ACT def Vic (6-0). In the Finals, Victoria (0) were defeated by Qld (2) in a tight game; then lost to NSW (2-5) to slip to 3rd place. Seee below the ladder at the end of the preliminary rounds.

The Victorian team are: Amy Borbiro, Jenny Bryce, Jackie Di Siervi, Stacey Dwyer, Megan Farrell, Danni Hanna, Carolyn James, Natalie James, Raelene Jeffrey, Mel Orr, Char Pouaka, Hayley Punter, Kate Quigley, Justine Smethurst, Natalie Titcume & Sarah Tutchener. The staff are: Jason Kumeroa (Coach), Jenny Cassidy (Assistant Coach), Sue Natoli (Manager) & Helen Pateras - Statistician.

Recent Gilley's Shield winners were: NSW (2004); NSW (2005); Queensland (2006).

20 December 2006: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 8 out now!

Off the Bench issue 8 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 8 (815 KB).

14 December 2006: Olympic Qualifier Warm-up - NZ White Sox vs VIS Titans!

An 8 game Olympic qualifier warm-up series is to be played between New Zealand White Sox and the VIS Titans!

 Olympic Qualifier Warm-up - NZ White Sox vs VIS Titans (254 KB).

13 December 2006: Waverley Softball Association U19 Team announced!

Congratulations to Falcons' Sarah Cerchi, Erin Dunstan, Dale stocker & Caroline Ziada for their selection in the Waverley Softball Association Women's U19 Team to play in the State Championships. Sarah, Dale & Caroline were members of last season's State Championship winning team. The team comprises: Samantha Allen, Sarah Cerchi, Carly Cheesman, Steph Davis, Erin Dunstan, Monica Gray, Nikki Hollet, Taryn Mazzarella, Jessica-Jean McDonald, Kim Quince, Dale Stocker, Caroline Ziada. The staff comprise: Kylie Bloodworth (Head Coach), Fran Smethurst (Asst. Coach) & Jo Paez (Asst. Coach). The Victorian Women's Under 19 Championship will be played 17 - 18 February 2007 at Geelong Softball Association.

Waverley Softball Association have also announced the Women's U19 squad from which the U19 team for the WSA 2007 Easter Carnival will be selected: Samantha Allen, Emily Bann, Sarah Cerchi, Carly Cheesman, Ella Crosbie, Steph Davis, Erin Dunstan, Monica Gray, Nikki Hollet, Olivia Howson, Anita Marchionna, Taryn Mazzarella, Jessica-Jean McDonald, Kim Quince, Dale Stocker, Alyssa Wright, Caitlin Young, Caroline Ziada.

 Waverley Softball Association Women's U19 Team (26 KB).

11 December 2006: QAS Heatwave National Women's League 8-10 December

QAS Heatwave were victorious in the second round of the National Womens League which was played at Waverley during 3 days of searing heat, accompanied by choking bushfire smoke and dust. QAS Heatwave defeated Starz, the Australian Under 19 Women's Squad, 5-3 in the final, played on Waverley's Diamond 2 yesterday afternoon. The competition comprised QAS Heatwave, NSWIS Firestars, VIS Titans, WAIS Coastals, Diamonds (AIS) & Starz.

Congratulations to Falcons' Caroline 'Cal' Ziada who was invited to play with the VIS Titans, where she joined Amy Borbiro, Sarah Tutchener and Chloe Fagan. Other members of the Titans were Natalie Titcume, Hayley Punter, Justine Smethurst, Natalie James, Carolyn James, Danielle Hanna, Kate Quigley, Jenny Bryce, Melanie Orr, Stacey Dwyer, Nikki Hollett, Jackie diSiervi, Lauren Olsen & Alison Bourne (NSW).

Rounds 3 & 4 will be played at Sydney on 7-13 January 2007 and 23-25 February 2007, respectively.

7 December 2006: Waverley Softball Association hosts National Women's League 8-10 December

Waverley Softball Association are hosting Round 2 of the National Women's League competition. Play starts on Friday morning, 8 December 2006, at 9:00 am and continues through Saturday and Sunday. Come down to the park and see Australia's best softballers in action!

 National Women's League 2006/2007 Draw  (116 KB).

4 December 2006: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 7 out now!

Off the Bench issue 7 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 7 (766 KB).

4 December 2006: Waverley win Victorian Girls U16 State Championship!

Waverley have won the Victorian Softball Association Girls' U16 Championship defeating Geelong 6 - 0 in the final. The championship was played at Albury over the weekend 2-3 December2006. Congratulations to 5 rising Falcons stars who played in the final: Tatiana Johns, Melissa Lindsay, Ashleigh Otter, Emira Sadikay who played for Waverley Softball Association & Tayla Supple who played for Geelong Softball Association. [WSA Congratulatory Notice].

19 November 2006: NSW Firestars win National League Round 1.

The NSWIS Firestars have won the first round of the new National League competion, played at Downey Park, Brisbane. The Firestars defeated QAS Heatwave 11-4 in the Grand Final [Competition Results, Ladder & Grand Final Report].

Individual Award Winners were: Best Batter - Natalie Titcume (VIS Titans); Best Pitcher - Jocelyn McCallum (QAS Heatwave); Most Valuable Player - Natalie Ward (NSWIS Firestars)

19 November 2006: Waverley win VSA Open Women's Championship. Young Falcons assist!!

Waverley Softball Association Open Women's team have won the Victorian Softball Association Open Women's A Grade Championship! Waverley defeated Knox 6-2 in the Grand Final played this afternoon. Amongst the Waverley line-up, depleted by the absence of several players representing the VIS Titans in Round One of the National League Competition, were Sarah Cerchi, Dale Stocker & Caroline Ziada. [Ladder & Finals Results].

1 November 2006: Waverley Softball Association U12 Teams Announced!

Congratulations to Falcons' Eleanor Dowd, Lisa Lentini & Lauren Passarelli for their selection in the Waverley Softball Association Girls U12 Redsox team. The team comprises: Francesca Alves, Kristina Bates, Kirsten Bilson, Sarah Brophy, Emily Clow, Eleanor Dowd, Emily Kassianou, Lisa Lentini, Caitlin O'Keefe, Lauren Passarelli, Jemma Thomas, Alys Young & Mel Ziada. The staff are: Yas Ziada (Head Coach) & Fran Smethurst (Asst. Coach).

Congratulations to Falcons' Maisie Dowd, Matilda Dowd, Tegan Dudley, Perri Dudley & Bridget Dunstan for their selection in the Waverley Softball Association Girls U12 Bluesox team. The team comprises: Isabelle Ablitt, Genevieve Clarke, Maisie Dowd, Matilda Dowd, Tegan Dudley, Perri Dudley, Bridget Dunstan, Edwina Jessop, Sarah Keeton, Bhawanni Kirkland, Lisa Mundos, Chloe Pateras & Tineal Ropata.

 Waverley Softball Association Girl's U12 Teams (13 KB).

1 November 2006: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 6 out now!

Off the Bench issue 6 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 6 (581 KB).

27 October 2006: Waverley Softball Association U14 Teams announced!

Congratulations to Falcons' Katrina Johns & Emily Papadimitriou for their selection in the Waverley Softball Association Girl's U14 Team to play in the State Championships. The Victorian Girl's Under 14 Championship will be played 10 - 11 March 2007 at Melbourne Softball Association. The 3 girls will also play in the Waverley Under 14 Redsox team which is to play at the Australia Day KFC Tournament, 26 - 29 January 2007, Canberra and at the WSA 2007 Easter Carnival, 6 - 9 April, 2007. The Redsox are: Racquel Bisinella-Duns, Cassie Blakeway, Tiarne Ecker, Jennifer Elphinstone, Jasmine Gray, Katrina Johns, Gemma Matchett, Emily Papadimitriou, Tarnia Pukatapu, Kirsty Spargo, Amy Stenniken, Lucy Tusan, Tamara Vargas. Staff are: Cheryl Waye (Head Coach) & Jill Williams (Asst. Coach).

Congratulations also to Madeline Campbell, Kate Hopkins & Natalie Passarelli who hav been selected to play in the WSA Girl's U14 Bluesox team which will play at the Australia Day KFC Tournament, 26 - 29 January 2007, Canberra and at the WSA 2007 Easter Carnival, 6 - 9 April, 2007. The Bluesox team are: Rachael Barbera, Madeline Campbell, Melissa Chan, Eloise Fielke, Sasha Lee Hendrickse, Cara Hladik, Kate Hopkins, Jordan Jacobs, Zoe Monk, Natalie Passarelli, Raejean Potae, Allison Ramanic, Elly Trevethan.

 Waverley Softball Association Girl's U14 Teams (15 KB).

15 October 2006: Bill Gobbart awarded life membership of Softball Australia!

CONGRATULATIONS! to Bill Gobbart, a Northwood Falcons Life Member, who has been awarded Life Membership by Softball Australia at the fifth annual Softball Australia Awards of Excellence held in Melbourne on Saturday 14 October 2006. After Bill joined Waverley North in 1974, he was active in softball administration for over 30 years until his retirement from the board of Softball Australia in 2005 [report].

Bill has been a dedicated contributor to all levels of softball for over 30 years. Bill's involvement with softball commenced in 1974 with the Waverley North Softball Club, where he served on their committee from 1976-86 and was President from 1980-85. In 1986 Bill was made a Life Member of the Club. In 1980 Bill was elected to the Waverley Softball Association executive where he undertook the role of Treasurer for ten years. Bill was also an active member of the umpiring panel, match committee and grounds committee, and was responsible for compiling draws for over 200 teams. Bill was made a Life Member of the Waverley Softball Association in 1994. In 1989 Bill was elected as President of the Victorian Softball Association and served in this role for ten years. Bill's calm and balanced approach helped VSA through a difficult time. In 2004 Bill was awarded Life Membership of VSA. In 1991 Bill was elected to the Board of Softball Australia where he served until 2005, including as an Executive member from 1994-2003. He acted as Chair of the Finance Committee and was also heavily involved in managing the rules and regulations of the organization. Even though Bill no longer serves in an official capacity, he still maintains a strong interest in the sport.

For details of the various awards presented at the fifth annual Softball Australia Awards of Excellence see the full report.

11 October 2006: Waverley Softball Association U16 Teams announced!

Congratulations to Falcons' Melissa Lindsay, Ashleigh Otter & Emira Sadikay for their selection in the Waverley Softball Association Girl's U16 Team to play in the State Championships. The Victorian Girl's Under 16 Championship will be played 2 - 3 December 2006 at Albury Softball Association. The 3 girls will also play in the Waverley Under 16 Redsox team which is to play at the Australia Day KFC Tournament, 26 - 29 January 2007, Canberra and at the WSA 2007 Easter Carnival, 6 - 9 April, 2007. The Redsox are: Emily Curcio, Helena Gray, Emma Gunn, Zoe Hughes, Melissa Lindsay, Elise Mosely, Sarah Noonan, Ashleigh Otter, Stacey Quinton, Mica Ropata, Emira Sadikay, Emily Smethurst, Jess Trengove. The staff are: Marg May (Head Coach), & Fran Smethurst (Asst Coach).

Congratulations also to Tatiana Johns who has been selected to play in the WSA Girl's U16 Bluesox team which will play at the Australia Day KFC Tournament, 26 - 29 January 2007, Canberra and at the WSA 2007 Easter Carnival, 6 - 9 April, 2007. The Bluesox team are: Kelly Atkins, Emma Boldeman, Emily Clarke, Stephanie Ecker, Laura Edgar, Marianna Hladik, Tatiana Johns, Natasha Shelvey, Alysha Waye, Rachelle Welti, Breanna Young.

 Waverley Softball Association Girl's U16 Teams (15 KB).

6 October 2006: Waverley Softball Association announces Edabone Medal

Waverley Softball Association have announced the establishment of the Edebone Medal for the Most Valuable A Grade player during the season. The Edabone Medal commemorates the achievements of Peta Edebone (pictured at right with her 3 Olympic medals), former Australian player and Captain.

 Edabone Medal  (67 KB).

3 October 2006: Falcons star as Waverley win SA Labour Day Junior Tournament 2006!

Congratulations to the Waverley U16 Girls team who won the South Australia Labour Day Junior Tournament played at West Beach, Adelaide, last weekend, defeating Sturt 3-0. Waverley were undefeated over the weekend. Waverley had previously won the U16 Girls competition in 1999, 2000 & 2001.

Two Falcons players, Tatiana Johns & Tayla Supple were representing Waverley. Tatiana (at right playing for WSA U14 Bluesox in Canberra) was awarded MVP for the tournament. The Waverley team comprised: Kelly Atkins, Steph Ecker, Elise Mosely, Emily Smethurst, Emily Curcio, Jess Trengove, Sarah Noonan, Helena Gray, Emma Gunn, Tatiana Johns, Stacy Quinton, Tayla Supple, Marg May (coach) & Liz Reisman (Asst. Coach). Elise, Emily & Stacy have all been Falcons players in the last 2-3 seasons.

Several other Falcons players played in the 2 Victorian U14 Girls Development Squad teams: Emily Papadimitriou who played in the Vic Dev SE (Blue) team and Francesca Alves & Katrina Johns, who played in the Vic Dev SE (White) team. The Blue team (5) defeated Torrens Valley Redsox (2) to win the U14 Tournament. Vic Dev SE (White) finished third. Waverley also fielded an U14 Girls team, coached by Falcons President Rod Johns, which included 3 other Falcons players, Natalie Passarelli, Lauren Passarelli & Adele Curcio. Despite the Waverley team finishing at the bottom of the 9 team U14 competition, the experience of playing in the tournament was considered valuable for the girls.

Grace Novak, who had been selected to play in the Victorian U15 Girls Development Squad (see below), unfortunately suffered a serious knee injury shortly before the tournament and was unable to play. Best wishes for a speedy recovery & return to the diamonds are extended to Grace!

29 September 2006: Open Letter from Jesse Stocker

With the 2006-07 softball season rapidly approaching, the fact that I am not going to be coaching a Falcons team this year is finally becoming "real".

While I still have plenty of chores to catch up on, you can be assured that I will still wander around the ball park to watch some games. It is always hard to balance staying out of the way of the people putting in all the hard work and still support my club and the people in it who I have been associated so closely with. I still want success for you all.

So, I wanted to wish everyone a great season, whether you are a player, coach, administrator or just a spectator, like me.

I also wanted to say "welcome back" to Paula, who is a long time Falcon and to say it is great to have such a qualified person in control of the A Grade team this year. Good luck, Paula. They are a great bunch of people and you will enjoy being part of this team.

To all of the "girls"…well, it is certainly strange not getting ready to work through another season.

I hope all of your catches are clean, all of your hits line-drives in to gaps (or further) and all of your throws straight to the target. Just like you always do, back each other up and play hard. The results will look after themselves.

If you hear some noise coming from the centre-field fence cheering you on…that will be me.

Have a great year!

Jesse Stocker

27 September 2006: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 5 out now!

Off the Bench issue 5 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 5 (Its Mega! 1.76 MB).

26 September 2006: WSA Level 1 Umpire Training Course.

Do you want to learn how to umpire? Will you be umpiring for your club this season? Do you need to refresh your skills? Lindsay Whitehead, Victorian Director of Umpiring, will be conducting a series of training nights that can help you on the road to confident umpiring. Please see the information flyer below for more details.

 WSA Level 1 Umpire Training Course (42 KB).

26 September 2006: WSA Representative Team Program.

If you intend to trial for a place in a Waverley Softball Association representative team or intend to volunteer to be an official this coming season, please see the information bulletin and appropriate nomination form below.

 WSA 2006/2007_Representative Team Program (152 KB)
 WSA Nomination Form - Officials (94 KB)
 WSA Nomination Form - Players (149 KB).

26 September 2006: Rule Changes Information Seminar - Wednesday 4 October.

The rules of the game were changed late last year. To assist coaches and players with the changes, a seminar is to be held at the Waverley Softball Pavilion, Jells Park, on Wednesday 4 October. The seminar will be conducted by Lindsay Whitehead, Victorian Director of Umpiring. Please read the flyer below and the Softball Australia Technical Bulletin.

 Rule Changes Information Seminar (44 KB)    Rule Changes Bulletin - November 2005 (246 KB).

19 September 2006: Pitcher wanted - Vienna, Austria.

I am an Australian coaching a local Austrian team, Superfund Wanderers, in Vienna. We are looking for a pitcher for April - September 2007. We see it as a good opportunity for players to experience Europe.

There is a limited competition in Austria, with 20 games each season, plus we are entered in the European Cup, normally held in August. For the last two years this was held in Italy.

Our Club can provide airfares, accommodation, local transport ticket, mobile phone (for local use) and a limited cash allowance for a suitable player.
I would appreciate if any interested players could email their data, statistics and email address to myself.
Our Club's website is http://www.wanderers.at

15 September 2006: WSA Responsible Serving of Alcohol training course [UPDATED].

WSA will host our own Responsible Serving of Alcohol Course on Monday 23rd October 7.00 - 10.00 (registration at 6.45pm)

This 3-hour workshop provides the knowledge and awareness necessary to serve liquor responsibly. Successful participants will receive an official RSA Certificate from Liquor Licensing. A short written test will take place on the night.

TOPICS

• Problems associated with excessive consumption
• Alcohol & the law
• Facts about alcohol
• Handling difficult customers

BENEFITS

• Greater awareness of legal liabilities
• Increased knowledge of alcohol & its effects
• A safer environment for servers and patrons
• Assists clubs to achieve Good Sports accreditation

COST: Normally $100 but through the Good Sports initiative, as WSA is a Good Sports Club, the cost is payable by cash on the night for an amount of $20 per person

Numbers Limited - bookings essential.

This is a great opportunity for those who may wish to increase their knowledge or for any one considering working in area that may require this certificate.

Please reply direct to me by Monday 25 September

Regards

Kerri Bann
Secretary, Waverley Softball Association

[UPDATED] Please be advised, 16 year olds are able to complete the course - but for obvious reasons are not able to serve until 18.

4 September 2006: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 4 out now!

Off the Bench issue 4 contains all the news about what is happening in Victorian Softball - a great read!

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 4 (Its Mega! 1.7 MB).

31 August 2006: Junior Olympic Day, Dandenong, 12 November.

The 2006 Junior Olympic Day will be held at Dandenong Softball Association on Sunday 12 November commencing at 10am. See the registration form for teams to enter. Following the Junior Olympic Day, we are planning to have exhibition matches featuring the Victorian Open mens and womens teams. All children who participate will receive Softball Victoria posters and will have access to the Open teams after the exhibition games to get autographs. All entries are to be returned to VSA office by close of business Friday, 3 November 2006. They can be submitted via email to vsadev@softball.asn.au or via fax 9360 0818.

 Junior Olympic Day Application Form (70 KB).

28 August 2006: Falcons new A Grade coach appointed!

Welcome to Paula McGovern who has been appointed to the position of A Grade coach! Paula succeeds Jesse stocker who retired from the position at the end of last season. Paula has had 23 years coaching experience at all levels of competition. Paula was with the Australian Sports Commission for 2 years on a Coaching Scholarship which enabled her to complete her Masters in Applied Science (Sports Coaching) and also gain Level 3 Accreditation. She is currently a secondary school teacher. She is also a sessional lecturer at Deakin University and a Talent Development Coordinator for Softball Australia. Paula is married with 2 children.

Paula (at left in photo) was recently in Taiwan, coaching the Australian University Softball Team which included Fabulous Falcons Amy Borbiro & Sarah Tutchener.

Paula's extensive coaching experience includes:

• Head Coach Australian University Softball Team 2004 and 2006
• Assistant Coach Australian U19 Squad for Grand Prix 2, 2006
• Australian Selector 2004-current
• Coach in the VIS NTC (National Training Centre) Program 1999-2005
• Coaching in the USA June & July 2001 in softball camps conducted by the Higher Ground Group.
• Australian Open Women's Team Assistant Coach (by invitation) for Brisbane International, March 2000
• Victorian U19 Women's State Coach 2000, 2001 & 2002
• VSSSA U18 School Girls Coach 1995, 96, 97, 98 (Australian Champions 1998 for the first time ever), 2000 & 2001
• Victorian Under 16 Assistant Coach 1995, 96 & 97.
• Waverley Softball Association U19 Coach 1996 - Victorian Champions 1996

We wish Paula great success and a lot of pleasure in her new position.

24 August 2006: Level 1 & 2 Scorers Classes.

If you would like to learn to score, Level 1 scorers classes will be held at Waverley Softball Association club rooms on Monday 9 October & Monday 16 October starting at 7:30 pm. The clases are free.

Level 2 scorers classes will be hels at the club rooms on Tuesday, 24 October & Tuesday, 31 October. There is a fee of $20 for this course.

 Level 1 & 2 Scorers Courses (16 KB).

22 August 2006: WSA Pavilion Kitchen/Counter Hands required.

WANTED! Kitchen/Counter hands who are reliable and flexible; Saturdays (8.30am-2.00pm or 9.00am-6.30pm shifts)
Duties include food preparation, customer service and general cleaning skills required. Basic cooking skills an advantage. Working hours Saturday during October - April (excl. school hols). Some other casual days required. Easter availability also preferred. Please contact Jacinta to apply by 6 September on 0403 455 858.

16 August 2006: International Softball Federation UPDATE.

Softball news from the International Softball Federation:

 International Softball Federation UPDATE (79 KB).

16 August 2006: New Coach Accreditation System now available.

The new Coach Accreditation System for Level 1 coaches is now available. Please read the flyer below for full details.

 Coach Accreditation System now available (71 KB).   National Softball Coaching Accreditation Program (96 KB).

15 August 2006: Four young Falcons selected in Victorian Primary Schools Sports Association Team!

Congratulations to 4 young Falcons players who have been selected to represent Victoria in the Victorian Primary Schools Sports Association Team: Francesca Alves, Katrina Johns, Lauren Passarelli & Natalie Passarelli.

For more information about the forthcoming tournament to be held in early December (?) visit Victorian Primary Schools Sports Association or School Sport Australia.

14 August 2006: Four young Falcons selected in Victorian Development Squads!

Congratulations to 4 young Falcons players who have been selected to represent Victoria in the Victorian Softball Association Development Squads:

U14 SE Squad: Francesca Alves, Katrina Johns, Emily Papadimitriou

U15 Squad: Grace Novak

The Development Squads will be travelling to Adelaide for the Labour Day Tournament to be played on the long weekend 30 September - 2 October 2006. Good luck girls!!

4 August 2006: Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 3 out now!

Feature articles include Falcons' Kirsty Jennings coaching the Victorian Girl's U16 team (see news item below).

 Softball Victoria - Off The Bench Issue 3 (Its massive! 2 MB).

2 August 2006: Two Young Falcons selected in Victorian Girl's U16 2007 State Team!

to Emily Curcio & Emira Sadikay who have been selected to represent Victoria playing in the Girls's U16 team.

The Victorian Girl's U16 2007 State Team comprises: Eliza Barnes (Glen Eira); Michelle Baxter (Keilor Park); Emily Curcio (Waverley); Hayley Farrell (Knox); Alison Ferguson (Glen Eira); Leilah Grant (Keilor Park); Emma Gunn (Waverley); Mikaela Hayes (Glen Eira); Zoe Hughes (Waverley); Emira Sadikay (Waverley); Emily Smethurst (Waverley); Tayla Supple (Geelong); Jessy Trengrove (Waverley); Jenn Vandoorn (Knox); Marina Walker (Glen Eira); Victoria Warwick (Keilor Park).

Staff include: Erin Cugley (Coach - Waverley); Kirsty Jennings (Assistant Coach - Waverley) & Kerryn Bell (Manager - Knox).

The Girl's U16 National Championships will be played at Downey Park, Queensland, 14-20 January 2007.

31 July 2006: Five Falcons selected in Victorian Women's U19 2007 State Team!

Congratulations to 5 Falcons players who have been selected to represent Victoria playing in the Women's U19 team: Sarah Cerchi, Chloe Fagan, Paige Farrell, Dale Stocker & Caroline Ziada. Chloe has been selected for the third year. Dale also played in the team last year.

The Victorian Women's U19 2007 State Team comprises: Danielle Baxter, Simone Beales, Carly Bell, Sarah Cerchi, Carly Cheeseman, Stephanie Davis, Jackie De Siervi, Chloe Fagan, Paige Farrell, Monica Gray, Ashleigh Guest, Nikki Hollett, Caitlin Lewis, Lauren Olsen, Dale Stocker & Caroline Ziada.

Staff are: Nigel Mackey (Coach - Casey); Chris James (Assistant Coach - Waverley); Kylie Bloodworth (Assistant Coach - Waverley); Karen Fogarty (Manager - Knox); James Giles (Statistician - Dandenong); Jo Paez (Pitching Coach - Waverley).

The Women's U19 National Championships will be played at Mirrabooka, WA, 21-27 January 2007.

20 July 2006: Softball Australia Calendar of Events 2006/2007.

Softball Australia Calendar of Events 2006/2007 (24 KB)