The Fleetwood Fastpitch Boys Open was huge success!! With 19 teams competing in 3 divisions, 51 games played plus a showcase game featuring New Zealand ISA vs Fleetwood Marlins, the ballpark was abuzz with activity.
This is the first time that Fleetwood Fastpitch has hosted an international team at the Boys Open. Coaches, players and spectators were excited to see New Zealand ISA play and entertain the crowd by performing a Haka before each game. For many in attendance, this was an introduction to New Zealand culture.
New Zealand coach Rob Siolo commented that we need to keep talking at an international level about softball, particularly at this age group (U16/U18) to keep the kids believing in the sport. Fleetwood Fastpitch billeted all 15 players, providing sleeping accommodations, meals and transportation to the ballpark, and some sightseeing as time permitted. New Zealand ISA promises to return to the Fleetwood Fastpitch Boys Open in the future.
The U12 division saw 100 Mile ‘n Hour take the gold in a decisive win over the Barriere Giants. In the U14 division, the Cloverdale Hurricanes defeated the North Surrey Stealers in a close 2-1 victory. And in the U18 Division, New Zealand ISA overcame the Cloverdale Rockies 8-1.
The highlight of the weekend was the New Zealand ISA showcase game against the Fleetwood Marlins Senior team. There were over 4oo spectators in attendance. With 3 New Zealand players on the Fleetwood Marlins for the season, the crowd was treated to a rousing Haka performed by New Zealand ISA which was responsed to by the Marlins kiwi imports. New Zealand ISA fell 6-1 to the Fleetwood Marlins.”
The following photos by Tatianna Simicic(Click to enlarge)
