FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Queensland’s Riordan Bradley and Molly Paddison will realise a lifelong dream later this month when they make their Australian Emeralds debuts at the 2026 Women’s Baseball World Cup in Rockford, Illinois.

The Queensland pair have earned their first senior international call-ups after progressing through the state’s performance pathway and will now represent Australia against the world’s best.

For Bradley, wearing the green and gold is the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.

“I’ve always wanted to play for Australia in my sport, so that has definitely been a goal for a while,” Bradley said.

“When I was told, ‘You’re going to be an Emerald,’ I think I went into a bit of shock. I immediately called my parents. It still hasn’t fully sunk in, but to know all the hard work has paid off and that I’ve earned my place alongside this team means everything.”

For Paddison, becoming an Australian Emerald fulfils a dream that began when she was just 14 years old.

“Playing for Australia became my goal from that moment,” Paddison said.

“When I was told I’d made the team, I was shocked. I just kept thanking the coach.

“For me, to represent my family means the world. Every time I put on a jersey, I’m thankful to my parents because of the sacrifices they’ve made to help me get here.”

Queensland Women’s Head Coach Lisa Norrie said the selection of two debutants highlighted the strength of the state’s women’s program.

“It speaks volumes about the strength of Queensland’s pathway,” Norrie said.

“Our program is creating an environment where talented athletes are identified early, challenged and supported to keep improving. Molly and Rio have both shown an outstanding work ethic, a genuine desire to keep learning and the ability to perform under pressure.

“They started where every young player starts—playing because they love the game—and through dedication they’ve earned the chance to wear the Australian jersey. Hopefully their success inspires more girls to pick up a glove and realise that international baseball is an achievable goal.

“With the launch of the Women’s Professional Baseball League in the United States, young female athletes can now see a genuine pathway to both representing their country and playing professionally.”

Bradley hopes young players can take confidence from her journey.

“My advice to younger players is to be coachable,” she said.

“Be open to learning, trying new things and improving your game. Your coaches want to help you become the best player you can be.”

The Australian Emeralds will compete at the Women’s Baseball World Cup in Rockford, Illinois, from 22–27 July, with Bradley and Paddison set to earn their first international caps in the green and gold.

Media Contact
Connie Rowe
Digital Media Manager
Baseball Queensland

07 3217 5072

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