Geraldton softball: Round one kicks off with close battle in men’s division one

The Geraldton Softball Association’s 2025-26 season kicked off under bright skies and plenty of enthusiasm at Utakarra Ball Park, with close contests, breakout performances and fresh faces across all grades.
On Friday night, in division one men, Martians proved they belong in the top tier, edging Batavia Blaze 7–6 in a tight encounter. Later that night, defending champions Suiside showed they will be hard to topple again this season, dispatching Rams 10–4.
There were impressive plays throughout both games and across all four top tier teams.
On Saturday, for women’s division one, last year’s premiers Rams picked up right where they left off, defeating Martians 12–4. Suiside went down to Pi’s 17–6, but showed early promise.
Team spokesperson Kerri Jefferies-Bowes said she was happy with how round one played out.
“The div on Suiside women’s team kicked off their season with a spirited performance, showcasing impressive skills and teamwork,” Jefferies-Bowes said.
“Despite ultimately coming up short in terms of runs, the team demonstrated plenty of potential.”
She highlighted several key efforts from experienced heads and also a debutant.
“Teisha’s (Steenson) catching and batting skills were on display, Allirah (Jefferies) pulled off some impressive double plays, Summer (Palmers) catching was a highlight in her div one debut, and Brooke (Borg) shone at third base,” Jefferies-Bowes said.
“Every player got a hit, so while the scoreboard didn’t reflect it, there were plenty of positives to build on.”
In division two men, Martians edged Midwest Marlins 7–6 in a nail-biter, led by standout coach-player Andrew Middler.
Marlins coach Taryn Purcell said the promise the team showed was pleasing given the amount of junior coming up the ranks.
“Div two men had a really good start, only losing by one. We had a few juniors in the team and I’m really looking forward to watching them grow and play as a team,” Purcell said.
Elsewhere, Suiside started their title defence with a 9–2 win over Pi’s Panthers, Batavia Blaze beat Rams White 9–7, and Rams Blue cruised past Gunduwa 18–0.
In division two Women, Midwest Marlins made a statement with a huge 30–1 win over Martians.
Purcell noted the level of talent in the team to deliver such a big win in round one.
“Div two women killed it, working together so well,” Purcell said.
Suiside beat Pi’s Panthers 20–14, Batavia Blaze overcame Rams White 30–12, and Gunduwa claimed a 15–7 win over Rams Blue.
Among juniors, Batavia Blaze defeated Bulldogs 8–1 in the under-16s, while Pi’s Panthers beat Martians 18–11 in the 14s, and Rams toppled Midwest Marlins 12–7.
Purcell said the level of depth in the junior ranks was pleasing for the league and for their club.
Round one delivered close contests, big hits, and plenty of promise to launch another exciting Geraldton softball season.
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