Fresh off a fantastic Open Women's National Championship we now move onto the Under 18 Nationals with our NSW Under 18 Girls hitting the diamonds from Tuesday 16th January to Sunday 21st January 2024. They will compete in the 2024 Elinor Mckenzie Shield aiming to defend our title from last year against quality talent and opposition from across the country.

Over the last couple of months, our NSW Under 18 Girls have been intensely working towards this National Championship showcasing their hard work, determination and passion with one goal in mind winning at Nationals. NSW Under 18 Girls coach Nicole Morley shares her insight into the girl's preparation and some of the standout players to look out for at nationals. " This year our U18s Girl's Softball team is coached by a dynamic and experienced staff, who are brimming with enthusiasm and knowledge. We are looking forward to guiding these young athletes throughout the tournament and helping them showcase their talents on the field."

Highlighting the roster, we have some exceptional talented players who are set to make a significant impact:

Jayda Lorigan- Known for her precision and speed. Her ability to read the game makes her an invaluable asset in high-pressure situations.

Angelique Iredale - Angelique's quick reflexes and strong arm make her a formidable force in the infield. Her fielding skills and batting prowess add depth to the team.

Maya Gillies - Maya is the speedster of the group. Her ability to cover ground in the outfield and her powerful arm makes her a valuable asset in the outfield.

Kate Luyten - Kate brings power and precision to both her batting and fielding, making her a dual threat. Her presence on the diamond is crucial for NSW's infield, as she beams with confidence in every play she makes.

Providing further insight into our Under 18 Girls Morley noted " The team's depth doesn't end here; each player brings a unique set of skills that contribute to the team's overall strength and versatility. The NSW U18 Girls are not only about individual brilliance but also about how well they play as a unit. The competition in Perth is expected to be fierce, with teams from across the country vying for the title. However, the NSW team is well-prepared, both physically and mentally, to face any challenge head-on. The blend of tactical training, skill development, and team-building activities has created a robust and cohesive unit."

To represent both NSW and the Waratah in softball at Nationals presents symbolic meaning for both coaches and players and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication our coaches and players display to have success. NSW Under 18 Girls Head Coach Nicole Morley shares her comments on what representing both NSW and the Waratah means to her at nationals. "As the head coach, representing NSW and the Waratah is one of the most rewarding achievements of my career. However, wearing the Waratah is not just about on winning but also on ensuring that each player grows, learns, and enjoys the experience. The journey to Perth is about more than just softball; it's about building character, fostering team spirit, and creating lifelong memories and that is what playing for NSW is all about. With bags packed, spirits high and bats ready, the NSW Under 18 Girls are set to make a mark in Perth. The goal is clear -  to perform at the highest level, represent NSW with pride, and hopefully, return with the trophy in hand. I am proud of the entire team and I look forward to them showcasing their talents for all to see." Following on from Morley's comments NSW Under 18 Girls players Isabella Trevena and Isobel Lambert share their insight into what representing NSW and the Waratah means to them. 

Isabella Trevena - "Representing NSW and the Waratah in the sport of softball means not only am I representing myself or team, but I am representing my state. The Waratah symbolises strength, courage and support which are all characteristics that I know our NSW team is able to demonstrate on and off the field. It is a privilege to play for NSW and one that i am extremely proud of."

Isobel Lambert - "Being given the opportunity to represent NSW at Nationals and joining the ranks of the blue bloods is an incredible honour. As a team we share the pride of wearing the Waratah on our jerseys with the respect it deserves. We have trained hard and are excited to display our grit, sportsmanship and determination at a National level. We are proud to follow in the foot steps of our mentors and role models who inspire us to not only be the best players we can, but also formidable team on the diamond."

We wish our NSW Under 18 Girls good luck and with every swing, catch and pitch everyone back home and at the grounds will be cheering you on as you make us all proud.

NSW Under 18 Girls Draw 

Tuesday 16th January 2024 

Wednesday 17th January 2024 

Thursday 18th January 2024 

Friday 19th January 2024 

Saturday 20th January 2024 

Sunday 21st January 2024 

NSW Under 18 Girls Team List 

Officials 

To stay updated and across all the action from our NSW Under 18 Girls at the 2024 Elinor Mckenzie Shield check out the Softball NSW social media pages as well as the Softball Australia website and social media pages for scores and all information in support of our blue bloods.