Dear GSA Members,

As we bid farewell to another remarkable season, it's time to reflect on the remarkable journey we've embarked on together over the past season of Softball. The achievements and success of the season have been a testament to everyone within the GSA and can be attributed to our collective dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to the sport we love. Let's take a moment to celebrate the multitude of achievements and memorable moments that have defined this season for the Geraldton Softball Association.

• Increase in Members (Woo Hoo – Well done clubs)
• New Club in Gunduwa (Great job to everyone involved)
• Upskilled our umpires, scorers and Junior players
• Rookie Game concept was formed
• State Representatives (Amazing achievement to have had so many members compete Nationally and even one little guy Internationally)
• Improved communication with Clubs and Members
• New Backnet (thank you to everyone who assisted in anyway)
• Grouds were upkept so less volunteering required from Clubs (Thanks Adam and Cam and any other helpers)
• Website was updated with all relevant information (Ladders, scores, news articles, resources, pathways and so on)
• Social Events (How good were these. Joey definitely best off ground)
• Wind up (My highlight)
• Livestreaming of some games and all Grand Finals (we had friends over East reaching out to say how much they loved being able to watch)
• And the list goes on

I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for each and every one of you who has contributed to our collective success.

This season marked the beginning of a new chapter for the GSA, with a dynamic and dedicated board steering us into a future filled with promise and possibility. Allow me to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each member of our esteemed board. Their unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have propelled us forward, shaping a season marked by innovation and progress. Behind the scenes, they've tirelessly implemented numerous initiatives to bolster the functionality of our organisation, ensuring that the GSA operates at the pinnacle of its potential. While not every action may be visible, each one contributes to the positive experience we strive to provide for our members. It's my hope that the fruits of their labour instil confidence in our collective vision for an extraordinary association. We've worked diligently to ensure that the GSA operates at its absolute best, delivering an unparalleled experience for our members. I must also send a shout out to the families of all board members, who allow us all to sacrifice that important family time and dedicate it to Softball instead.

As mentioned, my highlight of the season was being able to celebrate this season with you all. We had the privilege of honouring some of the legends of Geraldton Softball on the night by renaming our Division 1 MVP awards. We chose to honour two members who have excelled at Softball in Geraldton for an extended period. They both represent our sport and Association with passion, competitiveness but more importantly they are two very humble people and are loved by all who have played with or against them. The Women's Division 1 MVP will now be known as the Rowena Randall Medal and the inaugural medal was won by Taryn Purcell. Similarly, the Men's Division 1 MVP will be known as the Gordon "Yogi" Brott Medal, with the inaugural recipient being, Dean Pascoe. These awards serve as a fitting tribute to two individuals who have left an indelible mark on Geraldton Softball and continue to inspire us all.

Furthermore, we introduced the Merrilyn and Noel Green Spirit of Softball award to honour those who embody the same spirit of dedication and love of Geraldton Softball that Merrilyn and Noel exemplified throughout their lives. Many have noted that without the “Greenies”, we would not have the facilities we have today or be in the position we are today as a softballing community in Geraldton. This award recognises individuals who go above and beyond to contribute to the fabric of our association, fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all. It was our privilege to present the inaugural Merrilyn and Noel Green Spirit of Softball award to Ruth Douglas, a shining example of the values that define our community. We were also thrilled to have Merrilyn visit us all on Grand Final day down at the Ballpark! I can assure you, she loved every moment of it and her passion for the sport and sense of humor are both still strong. A big thanks to those involved in organsing this. 

While we are discussing icons of Geraldton Softball, we must send our love to the families and friends of two such men, in Brian Wood and Peter Avery (Life Member) who have passed away in recent weeks but have also left us with many memories and an amazing legacy from their commitment to our sport. I may not have known Brian well but am assured he was a much-loved figure within softball for all that he contributed over the years to many clubs as well as the Associations. I did know Pete well, and can attest that he was man with a large personality and large heart. Pete was always up for a joke and a chat about local sport and loved watching and socialising as he did as recently as Grand Final day a couple of weeks ago. Both men will be dearly missed, Rest in Peace.

Speaking of Grand Finals, we were blessed with a showcase of skill, determination, and unwavering passion with teams battling it out for glory on the diamond. Congratulations to all the teams who participated, and a special shout-out to our champions for their outstanding performances. In the junior game, Martians emerged victorious in a tightly contested affair. In Women’s Division 3 it was first year side, Gunduwa who went on a Cinderella run to win their first ever flag! Marlins brought their big game bats to both Women’s Division 1 and 2, taking out the double in two very strong performances. Suiside maintained their stranglehold on the Division 2 Men’s title, fending off a competitive Blaze side in a very low scoring tussle, while it was Rams and Suiside who played out the game of the season for the second year running in Men’s Division 1, with Rams reversing last year’s result to take the crown.

As we bring the curtain down on another unforgettable season, let us carry forward the lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the memories shared. Together, we've created something truly special, and I have no doubt that the best is yet to come for the Geraldton Softball Association. I look forward to the June Carnival as well as Geraldton showing the rest of the State just how good we are (watch this space).

Thank you once again for your unwavering support, dedication, and passion. Here's to another fantastic season of softball in 2024/25!

Warm regards,

PV 

P.S - Humble Brag but below is picture of what Softball means to me!