Softball Australia was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of icon, Audrey McLaughlin AM on Tuesday, 17 June in Queensland, Australia.

Audrey’s contribution shaped the development of softball at every level in Australia for over 70 years, and while the countless accolades Audrey received over the years was worthy recognition of her service to the game, the softball community simply can never repay nor thank Audrey enough for the footprint that she has left on softball in this country.  

Whether it was as an administrator, coach, selector, umpire or player, Audrey’s unwavering commitment, her personal standards, integrity, innovation to drive change and work ethic leaves a legacy that cannot be overstated, nor will ever be matched. Her passing marks the end of a golden era of the pioneers of softball that gave so much of their lives to the betterment of the game.

Audrey was awarded Life Membership of Softball Australia in 1967, Softball Australia Hall of Fame induction in 1985 and International Softball Federation Hall of Fame induction in 1999, recognition that encapsulates her impact on and off the field and in the boardroom.  

It is no coincidence that Audrey joins only seven other Australians to ever be awarded Life Membership and entry into Australian and International Hall of Fames.  This list includes Rosemary Adey OAM, Esther Deason MBE, Merle Short and Margo Koskelainen OAM whose contributions were also immeasurable.  

Click here to read a list of Audrey’s achievements 

Audrey is also a World Champion, as the Assistant Coach to our only World Championship women’s team in 1965.  A team that only earlier this year celebrated 60 years of winning the inaugural World Championships in Melbourne. 

At the 2016 Annual General Meeting, Softball Australia recognised Audrey as not only an icon of softball, but the icon of softball, with her dear friend, Margo Koskelainen leading the sentiments that day that celebrated Audrey’s contribution to the game.  It was a special moment in softball’s history, with it being the first and only time Softball Australia has recognised an icon.  Click here to read Margo’s speech.

On Friday 20 June, Softball Queensland shared their thoughts on the legend of Audrey McLaughlin, ‘Aud’ as she was affectionately known as by a generation of softballers: 

“Audrey was an extraordinary woman, who gave so much of her life to the game of softball from the very early years until the time of her passing this week. We share our deep admiration and love for her. She is a legend, icon, mentor and friend. Her legacy is Softball in Queensland no matter where it is played or who is involved. 

Audrey epitomised the true meaning of dedication, commitment, loyalty and honour. We will miss having her around but she will remain in our hearts and the history of our sport forever.”

Read the full announcement from Softball Queensland here.

Former Australian Captain and Hall of Famer, Joyce Lester OAM shared with Softball Australia her thoughts on the passing of her mentor: 

"I was so lucky and proud to be mentored by such an amazing woman. She has left so many positive memories and the sport will miss her so much. Her work ethic and energy will be missed". 

Read Joyce's full statement here.

Upon hearing the news of Audrey’s passing, fellow selector and lifelong friend, Shirley Schneider reflected on her many years of friendship with Audrey. Read her full statement here.

Simply put, Audrey McLaughlin AM was softball in this country and epitomised what we all love about our game and who we want to be while participating in the game we love.

Softball Australia offer our condolences to Jeff, Gil, Trent and their family, Audrey’s friends and those people that had the privilege of being impacted by this remarkable woman. 

All are welcome to honour Audrey with your attendance at her Celebration of Life Service to be held at 10.30am on Monday 30 June in the Garden Chapel at Albany Creek Crematorium.

Thank you Audrey and may you rest in peace.