New Zealand Black Sox nominated as Team of the Year at 63rd Halberg Awards
The New Zealand Men’s National Softball Team — the Black Sox — were nominated amongst six finalists in the Team of the Year category at the 63rd ISPS Handa Halberg Awards in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland, recognising their outstanding campaign at the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup Finals 2025 in Canada.
The Black Sox returned home with a silver medal after a strong tournament, finishing as runners-up to Venezuela in the World Championship Final.
“For us it’s a positive light on softball in general in New Zealand and our programmes are still strong with the youth coming through as well,” infielder Jerome Raemaki said.
The Black Sox are among New Zealand’s most decorated sporting teams, having won seven world titles and 14 medals in men’s softball history — with medals in 13 of the first 15 World Cups and 10 consecutive World Championship Final appearances between 1984 and 2017.
“We actually believed in ourselves a hell of a lot more as individuals and then also we believed in each other like a hell of a lot more,” said Pita Rona.
“To put us back on the Halberg map… for the next generation,” added Thomas Enoka.
The Black Sox said the nomination provides a valuable platform to help inspire the next generation of softballers across the country.
The other finalists were Black Ferns Sevens (rugby sevens), Auckland FC (football), New Zealand Kiwis (rugby league), Men's Team Pursuit: Nick Kergozou, Tom Sexton, Keegan Hornblow and Marshall Erwood (cycling - track), Ben Taylor and Oliver Welch (rowing). The Black Ferns Sevens took out the award on the night following an impressive 2025 performance.
The Halberg Awards are New Zealand’s premier sporting honours, celebrating outstanding achievements across national sport. The 63rd edition recognises elite performances, records, and inspiring stories of dedication and perseverance, bringing together athletes and sports fans for a night of nationwide celebration.
Categories: Men's Softball , Men's Softball World Cup , Oceania
