Waiuku Softball Club

Our Mission

At Waiuku Softball Club, our mission is simple: to create opportunities for everyone to experience the game of softball while building a club where every person feels they belong.

We are committed to growing the sport throughout Waiuku and the wider Franklin region by making softball accessible, affordable and welcoming for players of all ages, abilities and backgrounds. Whether someone is picking up a glove for the very first time or striving to represent their region or New Zealand, we want them to feel supported every step of the way.

More than developing softball players, we are passionate about developing confident young people, strong families and a connected community.

Our Story

Waiuku Softball Club was established in August 2021 from humble beginnings. What started as two rookie teams made up of a group of friends playing in the Franklin domestic competition quickly grew into something much bigger.

The energy,enthusiasm, support and sense of community surrounding those first teams highlighted that Waiuku needed its own softball club—one built on inclusion, family values and a genuine love of the game.

Just five seasons later, the club has grown into one of New Zealand's most vibrant community softball clubs. With more than 400 members, an Executive Committee of 11 dedicated volunteers and countless coaches, managers, umpires and supporters, the club continues to thrive because of the people who give their time and passion to create opportunities for others.

Our commitment to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment has been recognised nationally, culminating in Waiuku Softball Club being named Club of the Year by Softball New Zealand—an achievement that reflects the culture our members have built together.

Our Programmes

From our inaugural season of 11 teams, Waiuku Softball Club has continued to grow and now provides playing opportunities from introductory Tee Ball through to senior men's and women's competition.

In Season Five, we proudly entered:

  • 5 Men's teams

  • 6 Women's teams

  • Under 17s

  • Under 15s

  • 3 U13 teams

  • 2 U11 teams

  • 4 U10 Rookie teams

  • 4 U8 teams

  • 4 U6 teams

Success on the diamond has followed our growth. Our women's programme has secured a Championship title and two Plate Championships, while our men's programme has also claimed a Championship and two Plate titles. Our junior teams continue to achieve outstanding results, including three Under 11 Championships and multiple Under 13 runner-up finishes.

However, our greatest measure of success is not the trophies in the cabinet.

We take pride in creating an environment where every player feels valued, where families become lifelong friends and where young people develop confidence, resilience and leadership through sport.

Our commitment to youth development extends beyond playing. Programmes such as our Diamond Leaders initiative encourage older players to coach, mentor and umpire younger grades, creating pathways for leadership and ensuring the future strength of our club.

We are equally proud of the role we play within the wider community, introducing hundreds of local children to softball through school and community initiatives, including our annual support of the Sullivan's Cup sporting festival. These opportunities allow many children to experience softball for the very first time in a fun, positive and supportive environment.

Looking Ahead

One of the club's founding dreams was to establish a true home for softball in Waiuku.

Through our valued partnership with Waiuku Rugby Club, we now operate from Waiuku Rugby Park during the summer season and also enjoy the support of Waiuku College, providing quality facilities for our growing junior programme.

Having local diamonds means our players and families can train, compete and connect within their own community rather than travelling outside the district. It has strengthened participation, reduced barriers for families and helped create a genuine sense of belonging.

As participation continues to grow, our focus remains on sustainable development. We will continue investing in coaches, officials, volunteers and leadership opportunities while ensuring every player—from our youngest Tee Ball athlete to our senior representatives—has the opportunity to enjoy softball in a positive, inclusive environment.

Our vision is not simply to grow a softball club, but to continue building a community that future generations will be proud to call their own.

Our Values

Whanaungatanga

Relationships are at the heart of everything we do. We build lasting friendships, support one another and create a club where everyone feels welcomed, connected and valued.

Manaakitanga

We care for our people. By showing kindness, respect and generosity, we create an environment where every member can grow with confidence and where everyone is treated with dignity.

Kaitiakitanga

We are guardians of both our people and our place. We are committed to caring for our facilities, protecting the environment and promoting the physical, mental and social wellbeing of everyone involved in our club.

Kotahitanga

We achieve more together. Players, families, volunteers, sponsors and supporters all contribute to the success of Waiuku Softball Club. By working as one team, we create opportunities that no individual could achieve alone.