The 2026 Masters Tournament brought April to a close in fitting fashion, with four days of competitive, spirited baseball at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club from April 23–26.

Featuring 6 women’s teams and 9 men’s teams, the tournament showcased the depth of experience and enduring passion for the game within the Masters community. After last year’s event was washed out due to severe weather, there was a strong sense of anticipation—and determination—to make this year’s tournament count.

Navigating the Conditions

The tournament began in ideal fashion, with Day 1 delivering perfect playing conditions and a full schedule of completed games. Day 2 started just as smoothly before rain arrived early in the afternoon, forcing adjustments to the draw. Despite the disruption, most teams remained on track, with only a handful needing to catch up.

Day 3 proved the toughest challenge, with persistent weather leading to a complete washout. However, the final day delivered a welcome turnaround. With improved conditions and careful planning, teams were able to complete remaining fixtures, ensuring a fair outcome before finals began.

Through adaptability and strong coordination, the tournament maintained its competitive integrity—no small feat given the circumstances.

Champions Crowned

When the finals arrived, the quality of play rose once again.

The Dugongs claimed the men’s title with a composed and consistent performance, while the Cowgirls emerged as women’s champions, capping off a strong tournament run.

Leadership and Teamwork

Behind the scenes, the success of the tournament was driven by a committed group of individuals who worked tirelessly to keep the event on track.

Tournament Director Tony McPhail played a pivotal role throughout, balancing responsibilities across draw adjustments, ground management and overall event delivery. His leadership ensured that all teams were given equal opportunity heading into finals.

He was supported by Tara Sands, Assistant Tournament Director, who helped coordinate daily operations, and Jacquie Arlow, Scoring Coordinator, whose attention to detail ensured accurate and efficient game data throughout the event.

A Community Effort

A special acknowledgement must also go to the volunteers and ground crew at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club. Their efforts—particularly in managing the fields during challenging weather—were instrumental in allowing the tournament to proceed safely and successfully.

More Than the Scoreboard

While the weather tested the schedule, it also highlighted the resilience and camaraderie that define Masters baseball. Players adapted, officials adjusted, and the community came together to ensure the tournament delivered on its promise.

Despite the challenges, the 2026 Masters Tournament was filled with quality competition, connection, and memorable moments—a true reflection of the spirit of baseball in Queensland.

The curtain has closed on a thrilling national campaign, with the Australian Women’s Baseball Championships and Australian Women’s Youth Championships delivering a powerful showcase of talent, resilience, and the continued growth of women’s baseball across the country.

From emerging youth prospects to seasoned representatives and the ever-competitive Roos program, the tournament highlighted not just results on the scoreboard, but the strength of the pathway and the future of the game.

Queensland Shows Promise at AWC

Queensland’s campaign at the Australian Women’s Championships reflected both the potential and learning curve of a young, developing group.

Team manager Lisa Norrie summed it up candidly.

“I think we did well and we finished where I think we were at with such a young and inexperienced team. There were moments of brilliance and moments of lack of experience through the tournament,” she said.
“I’m super proud of the girls and I look forward to the next few years with such a talented young group, hopefully if I still have the duties and honour of managing this group.”

Despite the ups and downs, Queensland showed flashes of what’s to come — a team building toward sustained success, driven by a core of emerging talent gaining invaluable national experience.

Youth Championships: Building the Future

At the Australian Women’s Youth Championships, the Queensland side demonstrated grit and determination throughout the tournament.

Assistant coach Mila Bender reflected on the campaign with pride.

“Not the result we were chasing, but proud of the girls nonetheless — they’re winners in our eyes,” she said.
“It was a great tournament, we played quality baseball and fought hard.”

While the results may not have fully reflected their efforts, the tournament served its purpose — developing players, building connections, and strengthening the foundation for future Open Women’s success.

The Roos: A Vital Pathway

The inclusion of the The Roos once again proved valuable, bridging the gap between youth and open competition.

Roos manager David Paddison highlighted both performance and purpose.

“The Roos certainly proved their worth, with come-from-behind wins against NSW and tight games against QLD and SA,” he said.

Blending youth and experience — including guidance from former Emeralds Bronwyn Gell and Maddy Patrick — the program continues to prepare players for the next level.

“It’s a valuable pathway… success is measured by those who go on to represent their states and the Emeralds in future years.”

Calling the Shots

Queensland’s presence at the championships extended beyond the teams, with four umpires representing the state across both tournaments.

At the youth level, Cassandra Hall and Liliana Ostara officiated at the Australian Women’s Youth Championships, while Carla Pinder and Alisha Jewry took the field at the Australian Women’s Baseball Championships.

Their appointments highlight the strength of Queensland’s umpiring pathway, with officials stepping onto the national stage and performing under pressure in high-stakes environments.

For Jewry, one moment stood above the rest.

“The national anthem right before the gold medal game,” she said.
“It’s such a surreal moment — the reality of the tournament is basically over, this is the last game. Seeing both teams lining up, standing there with the other two umpires… knowing I was the plate umpire for the gold medal game.”

“It’s a bit of a moment where you feel all the high of the emotions and get a chance to look at how far you’ve come.”

Queensland’s presence at the championships extended beyond the teams, with four umpires representing the state across both tournaments.

At the youth level, Cassandra Hall and Liliana Ostara officiated at the Australian Women’s Youth Championships, while Carla Pinder and Alisha Jewry took the field at the Australian Women’s Baseball Championships.

Their appointments highlight the strength of Queensland’s umpiring pathway, with officials stepping onto the national stage and performing under pressure in high-stakes environments – in an all women’s officials line up.

For Jewry, one moment stood above the rest.

“The national anthem right before the gold medal game,” she said.
“It’s such a surreal moment — the reality of the tournament is basically over, this is the last game. Seeing both teams lining up, standing there with the other two umpires… knowing I was the plate umpire for the gold medal game.”

“It’s a bit of a moment where you feel all the high of the emotions and get a chance to look at how far you’ve come.”

Capturing the Moments

Behind every play, celebration, and hard-fought contest was Erin Honsa of Studio Honsa, who worked tirelessly across both championships to capture the action.

From game-winning hits to emotional team moments, Honsa’s lens ensured that the stories of the tournament were preserved. Covering every game, her work not only showcased the intensity of competition but also highlighted the passion and spirit of women’s baseball at every level.

A Stronger Future Ahead

Across both championships and the Roos program, one theme stood out — growth.

From young Queensland squads gaining experience, to youth players stepping into higher levels, and the Roos bridging the gap between development and elite competition, the tournament reinforced the strength of the national pathway.

And while medals may not have defined this year’s campaign, the achievements, mindset, and love for the game shown across all teams are clear indicators of a bright future for women’s baseball in Australia. 

A Month to Remember: Record-Breaking State Titles 

April 2026 will go down as one of the most memorable months in Baseball Queensland history—a celebration of junior baseball at its very best.

Across two action-packed weekends, 55 teams, 676 players and 149 games combined to deliver a flawless championship series across three venues. Even more remarkable? Not a single game lost to weather.

For Tournament Director Anna Day, it was a milestone moment.

“I’m not sure when we last had a complete Junior Championship season without any washouts or rain delays, but in the last five years I’ve been involved, this is the first time I’ve seen all divisions play all scheduled games across all tournaments and venues.”

Setting the Tone

The first weekend (April 10–12) saw strong competition across Ipswich and Narangba.

At Ipswich Musketeers Baseball Club, Big League and Senior League Emerging teams took the field, while Narangba Demons Baseball Club hosted Junior League Emerging.

It was the perfect start—competitive, energetic, and played under clear skies—setting the tone for what would become a standout championship series.

A Tournament for the Record Books

The following weekend, all eyes turned to Redcliffe Padres Baseball Club, where history was made.

Hosting 40 teams across seven divisions, Redcliffe delivered the largest Little League State Championship tournament ever held in Australia. From Senior League through to Little League Player Pitch 40, the scale and atmosphere elevated the event to new heights.

“Well we have had an epic month of QLD Junior State Championships,” said Anna Day.
“Over two weekends of perfect weather, we saw incredible participation, high-quality games, and a fantastic environment for all players involved.”

Across four days, the venue became a hub of constant activity—diamonds full, dugouts buzzing, and families lining the fences from first pitch to last light.

More Than Just Baseball

While the on-field action delivered plenty of highlights, the effort behind the scenes told its own story—particularly in the canteen at Redcliffe.

Over the four days, volunteers kept players, officials and supporters fuelled with staggering numbers:

• 🍔 2,562 lunches prepared

• 🥖 2,928 bread rolls

• 🍰 784 lamingtons

• 🥤 5,912 drinks

• 🌭 525 hot dogs

• 🍟 405kg of chips

• 🍗 247kg of chicken

• 🧀 2,400 slices of cheese

• 🥚 1,080 eggs

• 🍬 50kg of lollies

It’s a snapshot of the scale of the event—and the effort required to keep it running smoothly.

The People Behind the Game

Behind every pitch, every plate appearance and every final out was a network of dedicated people who made the month possible.

From Baseball Queensland staff and regional volunteers, to coaches, Executive Officers, scorers, umpires and photographers—countless hours were invested long before the first game began.

Then came the tournament delivery teams: club volunteers keeping everyone fed and hydrated, grounds crews preparing exceptional playing surfaces, and event staff managing the daily demands of large-scale competition.

For Anna Day, that collective effort is what defines success.

“It definitely helps when the sun is shining, but it’s working with people who have such a passion for our sport that makes these tournaments so successful. The energy, commitment and teamwork across every venue was incredible.”

A Lasting Impact

From emerging players stepping onto the representative stage to record-breaking participation and seamless delivery, April showcased the very best of junior baseball in Queensland.

It was more than a tournament series—it was a statement about the strength of the pathway, the power of community, and the future of the game.

“Congratulations to everyone who played a part,” said Day.
“Together, you delivered an amazing two weekends for our junior baseballers.”

And if this month proved anything, it’s that baseball in Queensland isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. 

The Queensland Youth Women’s Team is ready to take the national stage, with final preparations complete ahead of the Australian Youth Women’s Championships starting Tuesday 14 April.

In the lead-up, the team has drawn inspiration from some of Queensland baseball’s most respected figures. At their recent jersey presentation, former Queensland representative Laura Wagner – the 2022 Australian Women’s Championship MVP and a Brisbane Bandits ABL Women’s Showcase player – shared a powerful message with the group.

“Baseball isn’t just about the numbers,” Wagner said. “It’s about the connections you build along the journey. The people, the moments, and the experiences are what stay with you long after the game is over.”

The sentiment resonated strongly with the squad, reinforcing the importance of team culture and shared experience as they prepare for competition.

Adding to that inspiration, the players also heard from Baseball Queensland Life Member Kevin Cantwell. With decades of involvement in the sport and as a key contributor to the state’s performance pathway, Cantwell’s words left a lasting impact.

“There’s nothing better than representing your state and playing at the best of your abilities,” he told the group.

Just weeks out from competition, the opportunity to hear firsthand from one of Queensland’s most respected figures instilled a strong sense of purpose and pride. His message encouraged the players to embrace the honour of representing not only their state, but also their regions, clubs, families, and themselves.

Head Coach Neal Ragau praised the group’s preparation and mindset heading into the tournament.

“The group has prepared really well in the lead up,” Ragau said. “The consistency across sessions, the intent in their work, and the way they’ve connected as a team has been strong. They’ve put themselves in a great position heading into the tournament.”

The team flew out today, wasting no time in getting to work with a training session upon arrival. Now, all eyes turn to opening day tomorrow, where Queensland faces a challenging double header against Western Australia at 1:30pm, followed by South Australia at 3:45pm.

With strong preparation, inspiring guidance, and a united group, the Queensland Youth Women’s Team is ready to represent with pride.