Softball Australia wishes to advise that the 2026 John Reid Shield (Open Men’s National Championship) will not proceed due to an insufficient number of team entries. 

While five teams competed at the 2025 championship, only three teams nominated for the 2026 event. Softball Australia alongside Member States and Territories undertook significant efforts to support participation, including exploring joint team arrangements and encouraging additional athletes to enter the draft process. Despite these measures, the minimum number of teams required to deliver a fair, competitive, and fully sanctioned National Championship could not be reached. 

We recognise that this outcome is disappointing for athletes, coaches, officials, supporters, and the broader men’s community. The decision was not taken lightly and follows consultation with Member States and the Softball Australia Leadership Group. 

Softball Australia remains strongly committed to strengthening the Open Men’s pathway. A formal review will commence immediately, focusing on sustainable participation models, competition structures, pathway clarity, and alignment across states. The review will seek to identify practical and innovative strategies to support long-term growth and stability in the Men’s program. 

We understand the passion surrounding the John Reid Shield and acknowledge the concerns that may arise from this announcement. Softball Australia is committed to transparent communication throughout the review process and will provide further updates as this work progresses. 

As the event is not proceeding, selection for the 2026 Open Men’s Squad cannot be completed through the usual championship-based process. Instead, an Expression of Interest (EOI) process has been opened to support selectors in identifying athletes for upcoming program activities.  
 
EOI Link: 2026 Open Men's Squad Selection Expression of Interest - Softball Australia

For further information, please contact Softball Australia.