Geraldton trio pivotal in WA’s men’s three-peat at over-35 softball national championships in NSW

Four locals flew the flag for Geraldton when they joined WA’s finest over-35 softball players taking to the diamond at the recent national championships in New South Wales. Three Geraldton players — Dion Harrison, Paul Valenti, and Kurt Mead — played pivotal roles in a dominant men’s campaign that saw WA complete a remarkable three-peat —securing their third consecutive national title. Geraldton’s Kristi March was a member of the women’s team in the championships held from July 8-13. The WA men’s side delivered a near-flawless campaign, charging through their first six games unbeaten. The team only faltered once — against Queensland in the play-off round. The local trio of Harrison, Valenti and Mead were heavily involved throughout the tournament and instrumental in WA’s strong form. The Sunday morning preliminary final against NSW saw WA come out firing, shutting out their opponents 7–0. Mead blasted a home run in the fifth inning, driving in Harrison and swinging momentum firmly WA’s way. The grand final against Queensland capped off a stunning tournament. With all three Geraldton players stepping up on the big stage, WA powered to a 9-4 win and a three-peat. Harrison was over the moon and emotional after the victory. “I’m stoked,” he said. “The week was a battle which we didn’t have on our terms, but we dug deep and got it done. “I’m super proud of playing for this team and the State, but also prouder I can hang them up after a three-peat.” The WA women burst out of the blocks on day one, notching up impressive wins, including a 9–1 demolition of ACT, followed by a statement 13–5 victory over host State NSW. March made her presence felt with two solid hits, helping the side keep momentum and morale high. Day two delivered tougher challenges, with WA falling to Queensland and Tasmania. Despite getting bat on ball, March couldn’t quite crack the scoreboard, though her consistency and hustle were on full display. The third day saw a return to form, with the women powering past South Australia 11–3. They ended day four with two hard-fought losses, but spirits remained high. “My goal heading into the tournament was to see improvement from last year and hopefully win a game,” March said. “Not only did we win the opening game against ACT, we went back-to-back and dominated on the field against NSW. “The growth and improvement as a team and individually over the past 12 months was a massive achievement. I’m excited to see what the next 12 months brings.” Though WA bowed out following a tough semi-final against NSW, March and her teammates can hold their heads high with a fourth-place finish and plenty of grit shown throughout.

Geraldton trio pivotal in WA’s men’s three-peat at over-35 softball national championships in NSW

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