IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunday, February 08, 2004

Aussie Steelers Bow Out With World Championship
Bronze Medal

Aussie Steelers, the Australian men’s softball team have bowed out of the
 
XI ISF Men’s Softball World Championship with a bronze medal after 
succumbing to one of the strongest softball nations in the world, Canada 
7-0 in the preliminary final played today in Christchurch, New Zealand.

After immerging victorious against former world no. 3, USA last night in an
 
epic battle, Aussie Steelers could not sustain the intensity that has seen
 
them catapult themselves from 12th place in the world to world championship
 
bronze medalists.

With 19-year pitcher, Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT) back on the mound for the 
fifth consecutive time, Canada seized control of the game early and put 
three runs on the board in the first inning.  Kirkpatrick, who has proven 
beyond doubt that he is one of the best pitchers in the world during this 
event, was relived by Neal Delpero (WA), but the Canadian bats would not be
 
stopped.

The grand final contenders added a further two runs on the board in the top
 
of the second to command a 5-0 lead.  Two automatic home runs in the third
 
and the fourth inning extended the lead to seven unanswered runs and 
brought about an early close to the game.

Softball Australia’s Acting Chief Executive, Joanne Paez says despite the
 
loss, Aussie Steelers performance at this world championship has rated up 
there among the best of any Australian softball team.

“We knew that Aussie Steelers were going into this world championship as
 
credible finals contenders, but we also knew there was going to be some 
tough competition ahead of them,” Paez said from Melbourne.  “For this
 team 
to walk away with a world championship medal after being ranked 12th in the
 
world, says something very special about the character and ability of these
 
athletes and the leadership of their coach, Bob Harrow.

The conduct of this team is an example to all of us and on behalf of the 
entire Australian softball community; I wish to congratulate Bob and his 
athletes for an outstanding world championship campaign.”

Aussie Steelers third place result, means all four Australian national 
program are now ranked in the top five countries in the world; Under 19 men
 
(world No. 1), Under 19 Women (world. No 3), Open women (world No. 5), and
 
Open Men (world No. 3).

With Australia’s third place now confirmed, Canada will meet New Zealand
 in 
the grand final which will also be played today.

Host broadcasters for select games during the event was TV 2 and Sky 
Television.

Ends
For more information contact Helen Watson, 03 9890 8200 / 0414 376 924


HELEN WATSON
Marketing & Communication Manager
Softball Australia

Suite 4 (Ground Floor)
38 – 40 Prospect Street
BOX HILL VIC 3128

Ph: + 61 3 9890 8200
Fax: + 61 3 9890 8295
Mob: 0414 376 924
Email: <mailto:Helen.Watson@softball.org.au>Helen.Watson@softball.org.au

Web: www.softball.org.au