A Victorian women’s all-stars baseball side will take on a combined Japan University Women’s All-Stars team later this month.
The trip is a whirlwind tour spanning just one action-packed weekend, 29-30 November, featuring five games over two days at Newport and Port Melbourne baseball clubs, respectively.
Baseball Victoria chief executive Chet Gray said they are beyond excited to host the Japanese University All-Stars team
“We are hoping this series inspires the next generation of players and provides a springboard into early 2026 where we are aiming to hold our first-ever all-girls competition.
“I also wish to acknowledge the support of Baseball Australia for being supportive of this opportunity.”
The series is also been used as part of the preparation for the 2026 Australian Women’s Championships in April.
Among those selected in the Victorian team include Footscray’s Abbey McLellan, who has been selected as a player-coach.
Newport’s Kira Kuwamoto, Mackenzie Prentice-Evans, Paula Doherty and Ruby Dale have been selected as well.
Newport coach Dean Anglin is part of the coaching panel.
Newport Rams president Caron Condie said the club was excited to be involved in such an exciting series.
On the Saturday at Newport, there will be two games with the first game starting at noon.
There will be a pre-game ceremony for the 4pm match featuring national anthems and presentations from local dignitaries.
There will be live music and entertainment during the break and local women’s matches played on the adjacent diamond. The Rams second and third sides will be in action at 10am and 12.15pm.
“This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the outstanding standard of women’s baseball here in Victoria and to celebrate the shared passion for the game between our local players and our international guests,” said Ms Condie.
“We are proud to partner with Baseball Victoria in supporting the continued growth of women’s baseball at all levels.”
The Sunday matches will be played at Port Melbourne.
There will be junior activations throughout the afternoon, but most importantly for the club, they will launch their main fundraiser selling Christmas trees, continuing a 21-year tradition.
Federation of Japan women’s baseball chair Hiroko Yamada said they are grateful for the opportunity.
“This opportunity which will be an invaluable, once-in-a-lifetime experience for our university players,” she said.
“Besides baseball, I hope that Japanese players learn and enjoy the different culture, gaining international perspective. I also would like to express my appreciation to Baseball Australia as well as Baseball Victoria for making this happen.
“Australia is always our precious friend, and I hope this event helps to create more games for women’s baseball in both countries. Let’s work together for our sport.”
