From the official Softball New Zealand website:
After a successful camp at the weekend, Thomas Makea has selected his first team as Head Coach of the New Zealand Black Sox
“This team marks the first step in rebuilding the New Zealand Black Sox foundation, strengthening our future team’s depth, and igniting a renewed sense of pride in our softball legacy” says Makea.
The Black Sox will compete at the WBSC Oceania Regional Qualifier in American Samoa, November 9-11.
The event is being staged in the capital city of Pago Pago and will see the Black Sox compete against current World Champions Australia, and hosts American Samoa.
“I am proud of the strides the squad made over the weekend, and it gives me reassurance that we are all aligned and heading in the right direction”.
“We have a nice balance of youth and experience amongst the team. Liam Potts and Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola make the step up from the U23 program and Adam Woon, Jayden Stratford, Callum Bishop, and Zac Boyd will all make their international debuts.” says Makea.
The three-day qualifier will see the Black Sox contest six test matches as they commence their campaign toward 2025 World Cup Qualification.
The President of Softball New Zealand, Ms Lynda O’Cain is proud to announce the 2023 New Zealand Black Sox as follows:
Thomas Makea – Head Coach
Stevie Deans – Assistant Coach
Wayne Small – Manager
Tracee Topia – Scorer
Wayne Laulu (Wellington)
Cole Evans (Auckland)
Callum Bishop (Canterbury)
Liam Potts (Canterbury)
Jackson Watt (Canterbury)
Adam Woon (Auckland)
Eru Drage (North Harbour)
Hohepa Monk (North Harbour)
Cameron Watts (Canterbury)
Te Wera Bishop (Wellington)
Zac Boyd (Wellington)
Te Kirika Cooper-Nicola (Wellington)
Joel Evans (Hutt Valley)
Reilly Makea (Wellington)
Tane Mumu (Hutt Valley)
Jayden Stratford (Wellington)
Pita Rona (North Harbour)