Local lads to play ball on foreign diamonds

Tairawhiti softball players have made various International Softball Academy squads for tournaments in Europe, Canada and Australia. From left are Rikki Noble (second base), Corey Boocock (shortstop), Jake Noble (catcher), Adam Nepe (centre field), Treyson Hikitapua-Wilson (pitcher), Chleo Reihana-Davies (catcher) and Corban Richter (first base). Absent: Brandie Reihana. Picture by Liam Clayton

Eight Tairawhiti boys have been named in International Softball Academy New Zealand squads touring overseas over the next five months.

Corban Richter will travel to Canada with the ISA development squad in June/July — a 23-day tour featuring tournament and exhibition games in Saskatoon, Alberta and Manitoba.

Jake Noble and Adam Nepe are in the u17 squad to compete at the Prague Joudrs International Cup in Prague, Czech Republic, in May.

Brandie Reihana, Chleo Reihana-Davis, Treyson Hikitapua-Wilson, Corey Boocock and Rikki Noble are in the u15 squad, who head to Sydney at the end of September for the New South Wales Blues junior tournament at Blacktown International Sportspark.

Tairawhiti Softball Association president Walton Walker said that although their softball achievements were commendable, it was their resilience and character that needed to be celebrated.

Without those the boys would have achieved nothing, he said.

“It’s that old adage that talent will take you so far but to be successful you have to have commitment, work ethic, resilience and selflessness to reach the pinnacle in sports.

“I believe these boys will represent Tairawhiti with pride and play the right way — with a smile on their faces.

“Trips like this are expensive, with the European trip costing nearly $6000,” said Walker.

“Some of the older boys have part-time jobs and all of them are getting organised to put in big fundraising efforts.

“The boys and their families would greatly appreciate any financial support from the community.

“Please contact Sue on 021 215 9239 if you are interested in making a donation, offering sponsorship or have work the boys could do as a fundraiser.”