Geraldton Softball Association: No rest over the long weekend as the Mid West’s softballers head to Perth

Even though it was a general bye round for the Geraldton Softball Association, Geraldton athletes were still very much in action across Western Australia, competing across three major tournaments over the weekend. While local fixtures paused, Geraldton softball continued to represent the region at events held in Perth and Bunbury between February 28 and March 2. Geraldton’s Batavia Blaze squads were also in action at the 2026 BatCave Junior State Championships Tournament, held at Mirrabooka in Perth from February 28 to March 2. The Under 18’s Blaze side capped off a superb tournament by claiming the grand final victory, making it four titles in a row for the group. After strong round robin wins over Rockingham and Fremantle, the side carried their momentum through finals day to once again stand on top. Zade Colley had a big weekend in the under-18 side, hitting two balls over the fence across the tournament, including two crucial RBI hits in the grand final. Under-16’s Blaze side also competed strongly throughout the Mirrabooka tournament and advanced to finals, but were unfortunately knocked out in the elimination final. Declan Green played a key role, delivering a standout all-round tournament that included two home runs, including a grand slam, along with strong pitching performances across the weekend. Jack Etherton added offensive firepower with two home runs over the weekend, highlighting the depth of talent within the program. Geraldton was also represented at the Rams Skins carnival, held in Bunbury from February 28 to March 1, with the Rams men producing a strong campaign to finish third overall. The Rams were narrowly defeated 7–5 by Bunbury in the preliminary final after a high quality contest. Despite the result, there were standout moments, with Paul Valenti smashing a grand slam and producing an outstanding throw from centre field. Dean Pascoe also delivered a hardworking performance throughout the match. Kurt Mead and Leon Chapman were also named in the All Stars team, a fitting reward for their performances across the carnival. Dion Harrison and Chapman also received special recognition and were acknowledged for reaching 10 years of playing service. Geraldton’s youngest representatives also played in the Tee Ball WA State Championships, also in Perth, with both under-10 and under- 12 teams gaining valuable experience across the three-day carnival. The under-10s made an encouraging start to the championships, opening with a strong 28–7 performance before being edged 18–17 in a tight contest. As the tournament progressed, final day results did not fall their way, with losses to Yangebup Knights and Forrestfield Flyers seeing the group finish sixth overall. The under-12s also showed their quality early, highlighted by an emphatic 30–6 opening win. Several close matches followed, including a one run loss and a narrow 15–13 result against Exmouth at NSR Hire Ballpark. On the final day, the side recorded a hard fought 14–12 win over Perth Cubs before going down to Goldfields, finishing the championships mid-table.