Softballers find new home site
Budding softballers have a chance to give it a go on Saturday as the sport celebrates its move to Morrison Park.
A number of Canterbury Red Sox and junior Black Sox players are coming from Christchurch to help run skill sessions and competitions from 11am to 1pm.
Aorangi Softball Association (ASA) secretary Elyse Gamblin said they were hoping to attract more players to the game.
‘‘The committee worked hard to clean up the grounds, with the help of local businesses supporting the association with supplies.’’
Red Sox players would also join senior teams to have a game of softball in the afternoon.
Gamblin said the small ‘‘give it a go’’ sessions run in Temuka which were a huge success, with the newly formed Temuka Softball Club entering seven teams in its first year of operations.
The move to Morrison Park in a deal done with the South Canterbury Rugby Union was made as the sport had outgrown the Old Boys ground, she said.
The ASA has also become affiliated to New Zealand Softball through Canterbury.
Gamblin said with over 400 playing last year to lift the level among the juniors the decision was made to become affiliated.
It would allow the under-15 and under-17 rep teams to play in South Island tournaments.
Another positive for the association was that former Black Sox pitcher Greg Newton had agreed to assist with coaching and development.
The ASA is also starting up a secondary schools competition on a Wednesday night to attract those who have gone through t-ball to keep playing.
The season October 23.
is set to start on