Southland Secondary Schools Softball Tournament

On Sunday, February 16, the Southland Secondary Schools Softball Tournament was held at Surrey Park. JHC was proud to enter two mixed teams into the competition. It turned out to be one of the most incredible summer days of the year—bright and hot with temperatures around 30°C, but that didn’t stop our talented players from giving their all on the field.
After a hiatus in 2024, it was wonderful to see JHC back on the tournament circuit with two teams. This was a great opportunity for our students—many of whom are involved in local softball clubs—to connect with their JHC peers, build relationships, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes from playing alongside both older and younger teammates. The day was not only about the competition but also about fostering a strong sense of community between the different teams and clubs, which is one of the key values of the sport.
It was also fantastic to see a number of aspiring female players in the mix, many of them coming off the back of a recent first-place finish in the U15 softball tournament held over the summer. The growth of women’s softball in our region is something to celebrate, and these young players are a perfect example of the rising talent in the sport.
With the heat on their backs, our students played exceptionally well, with each team managing to compete in three games throughout the day. The energy and commitment from everyone, from the players to the coaching staff, were nothing short of inspiring. A huge thank you goes to our amazing parent coaches who stepped up to support the teams: Kerry, Ron, Wendy, and Trevor. Your hard work, patience, and support, especially under the scorching sun, truly made the day possible. A special shout-out to Matt along with the other SSA umpires, who also umpired in the heat, ensuring the games ran smoothly and fairly and last but not least a big thank you to all the whānau and friends who came down and supported us on the side line.
Our JHC Lions team (pic. top) showed incredible teamwork, resilience, and skill, topping their pool and advancing to the final. Though they played with heart, they were narrowly defeated by a strong SBHS team, finishing as runners-up on the day. Their performance was a testament to their dedication and ability, and they represented JHC with pride.
Meanwhile, our JHC Strikers team (pic. bottom) faced some tough competition but gave every team a close contest. With a few narrow losses, they showed the spirit of true sportsmanship, proving that they can hold their own against any opponent. Their determination was clear, and each game was a battle that could have gone either way.
As we reflect on a successful day, the sights are firmly set on the 2026 competition. With such a dedicated group of students and supportive coaches, the future of JHC softball looks bright, and we can’t wait to see what’s next. Here’s to even more success in the years ahead!