Sutherland Shire Softball Association (SSSA) was proudly represented across multiple national championships this season, with our talented players and dedicated officials making their mark on the national stage.

 

Outstanding Player Performances

SSSA had strong representation in the Under 23 Women’s Joyce Lester Shield, held in Brisbane from December 17-22, 2024. Abbey Hart and Jayde Jensen took the field for NSW, showcasing their skills against the nation’s best.

 

At the Open Women’s Gilley’s Shield, held in Melbourne from January 7-12, 2025, Stacey McManus and Shannon Keevers represented NSW, while Jayde Jensen took on a key role for South Australia. In an incredible achievement, South Australia went on to win the competition, with Jayde playing a crucial role in their success.

 

SSSA’s emerging stars also had a stellar tournament at the Under 18 Women’s Elinor McKenzie Shield in Sydney from January 21-26, 2025. Kate Luyten, Maya Gillies, Charlize Applitt, and Maddy Kirgan delivered outstanding performances, helping their team secure the national title.

SSSA Representatives in Official Roles

Our association was not only well represented on the field but also in key coaching and management positions:

• Kelly Gentle served as the Assistant Coach for the NSW Open Women’s team.
• Stacey McManus was the Assistant Coach for the NSW Under 16 Women’s team, which competed in Western Australia for the Esther Deason Shield and claimed victory.
• Kellie Parker managed the NSW Under 16 Boys team, which competed in Western Australia for the Arthur Allsopp Shield and also took home the championship.
• Jayde Jensen was part of the NSW Under 18 Women’s team staff, contributing to yet another title-winning campaign.

Recognising Our Officials

A special mention goes to Sylvia Khout, who served as an official scorer across multiple championships. Her expertise was recognized at the highest level when she was appointed as the official scorer for the Under 18 Boys Grand Final, where NSW emerged victorious. Kellie Parker also participated as an offical scorer during this competition. 

Daryl Shepard held umpire officiating duties at the U23 Men Laing Harrow Shield held in Queensland 2-9 February 2025 and Kyira Cox umpired at Open Women's. 

 

Special Mentions

We also acknowledge those who, while not first registered with SSSA, are valued members of our community:

• Bree Evans, who represented Western Australia at the Open Women’s competition.
• Adam Rindfleish, who was the Head Coach of the victorious Under 18 Boys team.
• Markayla Butler, who represented Victoria at the under 18s competition. 
• Joel Grimes, who umpired at both the Open Women’s and Under 18 Boys championships and had the honor of umpiring during the Open Women’s final.
• Kate English held offical scoring duties across the under 18 men's and women's national championships. 

Celebrating Success

SSSA congratulates all our representatives for their hard work, dedication, and achievements at the national championships. Their performances continue to inspire the next generation of softball players and officials within our association.

 

Well done to all involved—we look forward to seeing even more success in the future!