Australian Aussie Steelers and Under 23 Men, made their presence known on the international stage at the 2026 Vic Guth Softball Tournament, hosted by the Auckland United Softball Club in Auckland, New Zealand from January 23–26.

Established in 1964, the Vic Guth Tournament is a historic competition in New Zealand softball and one of the longest-running elite men’s softball events in the world. Now in its 61st year, the tournament continues to showcase the very best in men’s fastpitch softball, built on passion, pride, and fierce competition. The 2026 edition featured 14 top teams, delivering four days of high-quality softball in challenging weather conditions.

Several Australian representatives featured for leading New Zealand clubs, including:

• Jack Besgrove, U-23 Australian Representative & Aussie Steeler – Mt Albert Ramblers
• Corie List, U-23 Australian Representative – Hutt Valley Marist
• Scott Patterson, Aussie Steeler – Papanui Tigers
• Jay Selu, Aussie Steeler – Auckland Marist

Tournament honours went to the Mt Albert Ramblers, spearheaded by an outstanding pitching performance from Jack Besgrove, U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup Champion and current Aussie Steeler. Besgrove dominated on the mound throughout the weekend, leading his side to the championship and taking home two individual tournament awards, Most Valuable Player and Best Pitcher.

Adding to the strong Australian presence, Corie List, U-23 Australian representative, was named alongside Besgrove in the All-Tournament Team, underlining the depth of Australian talent performing on the international stage.

Softball Australia, General Manager Game Development, Clare Walker said “It’s great to see our Steelers and U-23 representatives competing and excelling overseas, opportunities like the Vic Guth Tournament provide invaluable international experience and preparation for future tournaments.”

The Australian U23 Men will now turn their attention to the softball Australia U23 Men’s National Championships, starting next Tuesday, February 3, at Redlands Softball Park, Queensland. Following the national championships, the 2026 WBSC U-23 Men’s Softball World Cup team will be selected, with Australia aiming to go back-to-back as World Champions in April 2026 in Colombia.

Australian athletes currently fund their own journey to represent the green and gold on the world stage. Supporters can get behind the players through the Australian Sports Foundation, with all contributions going directly toward minimising expenses for those selected to represent Australia.

Support their journey today on the Australian Sports Foundation

With standout performances in Auckland and a major international campaign ahead, Australian men’s softball continues to build momentum on the global stage. Congratulations to all four representatives on a successful campaign in New Zealand.

Pictured: Jack Besgrove, U-23 Australian Representative & Aussie Steeler, awarded Most Valuable Player,Best Pitcher and selected for the All Tournament Team.

Pictured: Corie List, U-23 Australian Representative selected for the All Tournament Team.