The South Island Secondary Schools' Championships were held at Dynasty Ballpark in Christchurch from March 19 to 22. The SBC team was made up of a core unit of highly experienced players who play at club and representative level, as well as some keen lads who had little to no previous experience. 

We had mixed results during the round robin, but crucially took an undefeated Shirley A to tie breaker on the penultimate day of the tournament, ensuring extra points on the board despite the loss. This left us with the task of beating Southland Boys on Friday morning to make the final. 

An outstanding effort from Phoenix Wardell on the mound, as well as his first homerun of the tournament, saw us close out the game 4-2. Given our tussle with Shirley A the day before, the boys were confident heading into the final. Phoenix Wardell and catcher Rau Kumeroa controlled the game with precision. Aggressive base running from the boys and a tiring Shirley Boys' pitcher saw us take a 3-2 advantage into the final innings of the game. With runners on base, Shirley had the opportunity to win the game, but a tag out at home secured the third and final out for SBC to clinch victory.

I would like to thank Des Radford for his coaching assistance in the latter half of the tournament, PCU for letting us borrow their gear bag, and the boys themselves who represented the college so superbly. Their positive attitude, determination, and commitment ensured a brilliant week of softball.

Congratulations also to Jayden Potts and Vili Fifita who were named in the tournament team.