A Strong Start for New Forest Baseball in 2026
The 2026 season is now fully underway for New Forest Baseball, and the opening month has already delivered plenty of memorable moments across both the Thunder and Knights. From debut appearances and first wins to dramatic innings and strong team performances, the club has continued to grow both on and off the field, with new players stepping into games, contributing immediately, and embracing the spirit of baseball in the New Forest. Opening Day Delayed by Weather The Thunder were due to begin their season on 12 April away at Yeovil Whirlwinds, but heavy rain forced the postponement of the fixture. While disappointing for players eager to get started, it only added to the anticipation ahead of the following weekend’s opening games. First Ever ThunderKnight Classic Baseball finally arrived on 19 April with the first ever ThunderKnight Classic, as the Thunder and Knights faced each other for the first time in league competition. While the Thunder came away with victories in both games, the day was a huge milestone for the club as a whole, with a large number of players making their debuts and taking their first steps into competitive baseball. In Game One, father and son Chad and Nath Tew both made their debuts for the Thunder and both recorded hits in a memorable family moment. Chad also impressed on the mound, pitching 2.2 innings with five strikeouts while allowing just one hit. Kieran Jewell delivered a strong offensive performance with five RBIs, while Shaun Barrett’s aggressive baserunning helped set the tone for the Thunder throughout the game. For the Knights, Darryn Stares, Leon Negus-Roman, Kevin Lau, Seb Chambers and Joe Wood all made their debuts, with Darryn and Leon both recording hits. Darryn also made his pitching debut and struck out three batters. Game Two brought even more debut appearances across the club. Chad Tew continued his excellent start to the season by going 3-for-3 with a walk and an RBI, while Ben Martin made his pitching debut for the Thunder. Shaun Barrett continued to create opportunities at the top of the lineup with four walks and several stolen bases. The Knights welcomed another group of debut players, including Ben Weeks, Owen Hatch, Cameron Houghton, Peter McKnight, Taylor Symonds-Price and Jake Turner. Owen Hatch impressed with two hits and three runs scored, while Peter McKnight and Taylor Symonds-Price also collected hits in their first appearances for the club. Luke Callum also made his pitching debut for the Knights. Beyond the results, the day highlighted the continued growth of New Forest Baseball, with experienced players and newcomers sharing the field together in a positive and competitive atmosphere. Knights Record Their First Wins The Knights were due to return to action on 26 April against the Taunton Pistols. Unfortunately the game was cancelled, however the Knights pick up two wins by forfeit. Thunder Continue Strong Start in Taunton The Thunder travelled to Taunton on 10 May and produced another pair of strong offensive performances to secure a double-header sweep. In Game One, Thunder pulled away late with seven runs in the final inning to secure a 22-9 victory. Sam Williams collected four hits and scored four runs, while Kieran Jewell drove in six runs during another productive performance at the plate. Mitch Sullivan also contributed heavily, finishing with four RBIs and four runs scored. Game Two proved much closer, with the teams level at 12-12 after three innings. Thunder again finished strongly, scoring six runs in the final inning before holding Taunton’s response to secure an 18-15 win. Leigh Froud led the way offensively with three hits, three RBIs and two runs scored, while doubles from Shaun Barrett, Sam Williams and Mitch Sullivan helped keep the pressure on throughout the game. Froud also started on the mound, with Mitch Sullivan delivering an important relief outing to help close out the victory. Knights Earn Split Against Bristol The Knights travelled to Bristol Brunels on the same weekend and earned a well-deserved split across two competitive games. Game One featured another debut, with Kyle Flaherty recording his first RBI for the club alongside two walks. Ben Coxhill claimed his first pitching win, striking out three batters during a composed performance. One of the standout moments of the day came on a well-executed double play, as Joe Wood made a catch in centre field before combining with James Knight at first base to complete the play. Darryn Stares continued his impressive start to the season, going 3-for-3 with three RBIs as the Knights secured an 11-9 victory. Although the second game ended in a narrow defeat, there were still several positives for the Knights to take away. Darryn again contributed strongly offensively, while Leon Negus-Roman stepped up to make his pitching debut as starter before Darryn moved to the mound in relief and struck out three batters. The continued willingness of new players to take on different roles has been an important part of the Knights’ early-season development. Thunder Split with Bristol Brunels On 17 May, the Thunder hosted Bristol Brunels in another entertaining double-header. Game One saw Thunder secure a 10-5 win behind a complete game performance from Chad Tew, who struck out six batters across five innings. Simon Schwarz created constant pressure on the bases with six stolen bases, while Mitch Sullivan and Kieran Jewell both recorded two hits, including doubles. The second game remained closely contested through three innings before Bristol produced a big fourth inning to take control. Thunder continued battling throughout and added four late runs, but ultimately fell short in a 17-10 defeat as rain began to approach the field. Sam Williams and Doug Sutherland both drove in three runs during the game, while Ben Martin struck out four batters in his pitching start before several players combined in relief. Building Something Special One month into the season, there is already a strong sense of momentum around New Forest Baseball. Across both teams, experienced players and newcomers alike have contributed in important moments, while the club
Matchday at Gang Warily: What to Expect in 2026
There’s nothing quite like baseball in the New Forest. Whether you’re a big baseball fan, a first-time visitor, or just curious about the game, a matchday at Gang Warily is all about relaxed vibes, community spirit, and getting right up close to the action. And best of all? Entry is completely free. When & Where First home game: Sunday 19th AprilFixture: New Forest Thunder vs. New Forest KnightsThe first ever ThunderKnight Classic!First pitch: 12:00pm 📍 Gang Warily Recreation CentreNewlands Road, Fawley, Southampton, SO45 1GAWhat3Words: ///scrambles.ivory.upset Parking: Enter via the main entrance, drive to the far end of the car park, and you can walk through the gate at the end of the car park and walk down the road leading down the hill to the field. We do not recommend parking at the bottom of the hill, by the Men’s Shed, as there is a risk of damage from balls. What Happens on the Day? Game days are double-headers, meaning you get two games back-to-back. Each game lasts around 2 hours. In our league, no new innings start after 1 hour 45 minutes, and most innings are capped at 5 runs; so things keep moving and there’s always something happening. What to Expect Don’t be expecting a Major League stadium experience…. with us you get something better! At Gang Warily, you’re right next to the field. You can hear the crack of the bat, the chatter from the dugout, and feel part of the game. It’s relaxed, informal, and family-friendly. Bring the kids, bring a friend, or just come along and enjoy a summer afternoon outdoors. Feel free to wander, find your perfect spot, and settle in. Space is limited down the left field line, where the away team sits, so you might be more comfortable along the right field side (the side nearest the Scout Hut). Just be cautious not to enter the field of play and beware of flying baseballs! Toilets are available in the main Gang Warily building at the other end of the car park, a short walk from the field. What to Bring There’s no fixed seating, and no food/drink stalls, so come prepared. Bring a camping chair or picnic blanket, snacks, drinks and don’t forget sunscreen… or extra layers… depending on the great British weather! As with all outdoor sports in the UK, games are weather dependent. Keep an eye on our social media channels for any updates in case we have to cancel. New to Baseball? No problem at all. Baseball is easy to pick up as you watch; two teams take turns batting and fielding, scoring runs by making it around the bases. If you’re not sure what’s going on, just ask! Our players, coaches and family members are always happy to help. Come Say Hi We’re a community club, and matchdays are as much about the people as the game. Come and say hello, chat with the team between games, and get involved. Whether you’re looking to play, support, or just enjoy something a bit different, you’re always welcome. Baseball is growing in the New Forest, and there’s no better time to be part of it. We’ll see you at the field.
The ThunderKnight of the New Forest
People often ask us, where did you get your name from? Why the ThunderKnights? Over the past few years we’ve told people the same thing; our players couldn’t decide between the Knights or the Thunder. So we smashed them together. But, the truth is, the ThunderKnight name goes back centuries. And now we bring to you his story. Long before he was known as the ThunderKnight, Sir Aldric Vey was simply Aldric of Minstead, the son of a forester whose family had protected the New Forest’s ancient glades since the days of William the Conqueror. Like many who lived within the Forest bounds, Aldric grew up hearing whispered warnings; of the Burley Witches, of Herne the Wild Huntsman, the Bettesthorne Dragon and of the Cadland Lights that lured travellers from the path after dusk. Aldric’s life changed during the Great Storm of 1299. Lightning split the sky again and again, shattering trees and igniting pockets of heathland. Aldric, then a young squire in service to a lesser lord of Hampshire, was sent into the forest to search for lost villagers and bring them to safety and shelter. What he found would shape the rest of his life. The Night of the Storm Aldric had been sent into the Forest alongside two mounted retainers to search for villagers who hadn’t returned from the grazing lands. As the storm intensified, Aldric was separated from the others. Lightning shattered limbs from ancient oaks, and visibility collapsed into sheets of rain. Deep within Mark Ash Wood, Aldric came upon a clearing scorched by lightning. At its centre lay an elderly verderer; one of the Crown-appointed guardians of the Forest. He was gravely wounded after a falling beech struck him and pinned him down. With the storm raging and no way to carry the man out, Aldric shielded him through the night, using his own cloak to protect him from rain and repeatedly driving back panicked ponies and boars fleeing the chaos. At one point lightning struck a tree so close that a shower of burning splinters scorched Aldric’s face, cloak, and the round metal buckler slung at his hip. When dawn came, the old verderer was still alive. He later claimed he survived only because “the forest itself sent a protector, wrapped in thunder and green.” Word of Aldric’s bravery spread quickly through the surrounding villages. When Aldric was knighted the following year, he commissioned a helm with a stylised lightning-bolt engraving, echoing the scar pattern left on his charred buckler from that night. It became his symbol; part honour, part remembrance. Thus the villagers began to call him the ThunderKnight, because the storm shaped the man he became. The Oath of the Greenwood Aldric petitioned his lord for permission to serve the Crown not as a battlefield knight, but as a wandering guardian of the New Forest. His duties were unusual: he mediated disputes between verderers, protected the royal hunting lodges, escorted travellers through haunted stretches of woodland, and ensured that charcoal-burners, glass-workers, and commoners all respected the fragile balance of the land. Over time, legends began to form around him: Aldric and the Sleeping Dragon Among the many stories that grew around Sir Aldric Vey, the most whispered was the belief that the ThunderKnight served as a warden of something ancient beneath the Forest. Local elders in Bettesthorne (now known as Bisterne) and Avon had long spoken of a great wyrm that once plagued the land. The creature had supposedly been lulled into sleep by a clever woodsman generations earlier. The tale was old even in Aldric’s day, mentioned only in fireside murmurs and half-forgotten charms used to keep livestock calm near the river’s edge. Most people dismissed the Bettesthorne Dragon stories as superstition. Aldric did not. During his patrols, he walked the borders where the oldest earthworks lay, where strange warmth rose from the ground in winter and where animals refused to graze in summer. Villagers saw him leave small offerings; sprigs of rowan, bowls of clean water, iron nails driven into the soil. These were old traditions meant not to defeat something monstrous, but to keep it sleeping. No one knew where he learned these rites. Some said an ageing wise woman from Burley taught him. Others believed he found an ancient charm-stone near Bettesthorne, carved long before the Forest was a Forest. But all agreed on one thing: While Aldric lived, the dragon slept. The Final Ride Sir Aldric served the Forest for decades, refusing wealth or title beyond his knighthood. His armour remained plain, battered, and always cloaked in green—symbolising his oath to the land rather than to any court. His end, fittingly, became its own legend. In the late autumn of 1334, during another ferocious storm, Aldric rode into Knightwood Oak to rescue a group of trapped woodcutters. They survived; he never returned. Only his helm was found, resting at the foot of an ancient lightning-scarred beech, its yellow streak glowing dimly in the stormlight. The verderers claimed the Forest had simply reclaimed its champion. The local people mourned their guardian. Yet in one corner of the Forest, sorrow turned quickly to fear. A few years later, strange sights began again. Scorched grass, livestock missing, a mare refusing to enter the river crossing at dusk. The old fears returned. And by the time the legend of the Bisterne Dragon was finally recorded in the 15th century — the tale of a fearsome serpent defeated by a noble knight — many whispered that it was Aldric’s disappearance that allowed the beast to stir again. The later dragon-slayer legend became famous. But the oldest people of the New Forest insisted there had been another guardian first: A knight whose lightning-marked helm and green cloak kept the wyrm’s dreams deep for decades. To this day, some New Forest locals swear that during violent storms, when thunder cracks through the canopy, a figure in dented armour and a green cloak can be glimpsed among the trees; standing sentinel between the people and the
Key Transfers Ahead of 2026 Season
Every season brings new stories, and for 2026 a group of familiar faces will be writing their next chapter in Storm Blue. Several players who predominantly pulled on the Knights jersey in recent seasons will be “On The Move”, joining the Thunder for the upcoming campaign. It’s a shift that reflects what New Forest Baseball is all about — Growth, Community and Fun — with players stepping into new challenges while keeping the same club spirit that binds the ThunderKnights together. Shaun Barrett – CF – #51 A dynamic presence in centre field, Shaun has been one of the Knights’ most electric players over the last two seasons. His 2025 numbers tell the story: a .467 average, a huge .690 OBP, and an eye-watering 18 stolen bases without being caught once. Shaun’s speed and on-base ability make him a natural spark plug at the top of the order, and his move to the Thunder gives the team an immediate injection of pace and pressure on opposing defences. Leigh Froud – CF / P – #8 A 2025 SWWBL All-Star, Leigh brings versatility, experience and plenty of personality to the Thunder roster. Equally comfortable roaming the outfield or taking the mound, he’s the kind of player every team needs: adaptable, committed, and always ready to step up. At the plate, Leigh’s excellent on-base percentage shows his discipline and awareness, while his willingness to take on different roles highlights the Community spirit at the heart of the club — doing whatever the team needs, whenever it’s needed. Lewis Kelly – 3B – #46 The 2024 Rookie of the Year and current GM, Lewis’ move is a significant one for 2026. A powerful bat and confident presence at third base, he’s posted outstanding numbers across his first two seasons, including a .421 average and 1.119 OPS in 2025. Lewis represents Growth in its purest form — from rookie standout to club leader, and now stepping onto the Thunder roster to continue pushing his game forward while helping guide others along the way. Ben Martin – 3B / LF – #69 Reliable and quietly effective, Ben adds depth and flexibility to the Thunder defence. Whether at third base or in left field, he brings steady hands, a team-first attitude and a knack for getting the job done without fuss. His move is another reminder that Community is bigger than any single team name. Thunder or Knights, the badge stays the same — and players like Ben help keep that shared identity strong. Ernesto Ramos – 2B – #73 A Venezuela native, Ernesto made an instant impression in limited action in 2025, hitting .500 with a 1.367 OPS. A right-handed second baseman with sharp instincts and infectious enthusiasm, he adds international flavour and exciting upside to the Thunder line-up. Ernesto’s journey perfectly captures the Fun principle — bringing energy, passion and a love of the game that lifts everyone around him. Simon Schwarz – C – #24 Simon had already played a chunk of the 2025 season as a Thunder player, but now makes the move permanent. His catching skills behind the plate, as well his batting skills at it, make him another exciting addition to the Thunder roster. Si was the Knights Offensive Player of the Season in 2025 and will hope to bring more offensive prowess to Thunder in 2026. One Club, Two Teams, Ready for 2026 While the jerseys for these players may be changing from forest green to storm blue, the philosophy stays the same. These moves aren’t about leaving one side behind; in fact there are a lot of new faces to be unveiled for the Knights this season. Preparing for 2026 has been about strengthening both teams and continuing to build one connected ThunderKnights community. Because no matter where our players line up on game day, they’re all still playing the New Forest way.
Built for the Forest: Our New Jerseys Up Close
We’re excited to unveil brand new New Forest Baseball jerseys for 2026, created in partnership with Covee. Inspired by our home in the New Forest, the design keeps things classic, bold, and built for the long summer days ahead on the diamond. For the first time, the jerseys proudly feature “New Forest” across the chest, reflecting that every player who pulls one on represents not just their team, but the whole club and the wider community we’re part of. Each jersey is personalised with player name and number, plus a nationality flag on the back. It’s a small but important detail celebrating the mix of backgrounds that make our club what it is. You’ll also spot the classic ThunderKnight helmet logo on one sleeve and the ThunderKnight name on the other. A nod to where we’ve come from. To launch the new look, we headed into the Forest itself. Bats over shoulders, jerseys on show, and a camera rolling; capturing the spirit of the club in the place that inspired it. The Knights will continue to wear their traditional green — a shade inspired by the towering trees, open heathland, and winding trails of the New Forest itself. Meanwhile, the Thunder kit mirrors the same design in a deep stormy blue — a colour representing dramatic skies, rolling thunder, and the unmistakable sound of a bat meeting baseball somewhere across the Forest. This year also marks the debut of dark forest pinstripes, giving the jerseys a classic baseball feel while adding a little extra edge. Different colours. Same club. Same spirit. These jerseys represent what New Forest Baseball is all about: Community – everyone pulling together under one name.Growth – new players, new jerseys, and the game spreading across the Forest.Fun – because baseball should always be played with a smile. We can’t wait to see them out on the field this season.
GALLERY: Suiting Up for 2026: The New Jerseys
VIDEO: New Forest Baseball 2026 Jersey Launch
Meet the Managers
As the 2026 season approaches, the ThunderKnights are ready to take the field once more, this time under the leadership of a new set of team managers. Leading the way for the club this year are Thunder Manager Doug Sutherland and Knights Co-Managers James Knight and Ben Coxhill. Two different teams, one shared purpose. Play Baseball the New Forest Way. We asked our managers what that means to them, and what they’re expecting from the season ahead. What does it mean to be a manager? For Doug, managing the Thunder is about pride and responsibility. “It’s truly an honour to lead a team which is more like family. Training has been really positive and I really look forward to the season ahead and watching all of our squad develop.” On the Knights side, the theme is opportunity. When we asked James the same question, he spoke about the excitement of guiding a new wave of players. “Having the opportunity to manage and coach a group of rookies and new players is so exciting — the enthusiasm and energy in training from them so far has been off the charts.” For Ben, it’s been a journey. “From joining the club three years ago and falling in love with the sport, to being able to manage a team is something I’m really looking forward to. Game days are always really fun, so I’m excited to experience it as a manager — and to play baseball with some great people.” His Co-Manager also highlighted that journey. “Co-managing with Ben, who I saw start his baseball journey with us and has now developed into a phenomenal player has been a treat!” Our leadership team reflects exactly what the ThunderKnights stand for; fun family atmosphere and player growth. Positive. Hardworking. Exciting. Doug Sutherland’s 3 words on the Thunder What are they most excited about for the coming season? For Doug, it’s about chemistry. “I’m most excited to see how we gel as a team and play with smiles on our faces, enjoying every challenge that comes our way.” Ben agrees — highlighting one of his favourite aspects of the game: “We have a great mix of players and personalities, and also a lot of people completely new to the sport. I’m really looking forward to seeing how players develop — and of course most importantly, having a pint (or shoey) with them after the games!” Competition matters to our managers, but so does club culture. And while not everyone will be drinking from their cleats, they will undoubtedly enjoy their season and celebrate every success. What are your goals for 2026? Doug’s ambition for the Thunder is clear and direct: “My one goal is to get to the playoffs.” James balances competitiveness with the Knights ethos. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say win as many games as possible… but the ethos of the Knights is (and has always been) to have fun and love the game of baseball. We’ll continue that energy this year.” Ben, meanwhile, has a few personal scores to settle. “On a personal level, my first priority is to win back that Stolen Base award (and MVP award!), both of which Bash [Knight’s Andy Bashforth] has cheekily robbed off me. But overall, I would just like to play well and help the team out while hopefully getting a few wins.” There’s ambition in this group, mixed with a little friendly competition, but always rooted in team success. What game do you circled on the calendar? Doug has his eye on Bristol. “They are always a well organised team who have a lot of quality. A true test it will be.” Ben also enjoys the Bristol away day — but he’s especially focused closer to home. “I am definitely looking forward to our first New Forest derbies. It will be a great day with loads of great people — but ultimately, I would love to cause an upset and be crowned our inaugural New Forest Champions.” James didn’t hesitate either: “I can’t wait for our Week 2 game vs the Thunder obviously!” The derby rivalry is alive and well. Make sure to join us at Gang Warily on Sunday April 19th for the first ever ThunderKnights Classic! We’re aiming to make that day a real community event, so mark your calendars and come join the fun. 2026 in a Nutshell The Thunder are aiming for playoffs. The Knights are aiming for growth… and maybe a derby upset. But across both teams, the message from the managers is consistent: Work hard.Compete together.Enjoy the game.Represent the Forest. With Opening Day approaching, the tone is set for 2026. And the ThunderKnights are ready; to play baseball, the New Forest Way.
2026 Fixtures Released
The fixtures for the upcoming 2026 South West & Wales Baseball League (SWWBL) have been released, and there’s some very exciting days coming up for both our teams this summer! Opening Day is Sunday 12th April, when New Forest Thunder travel to Yeovil Whirlwinds for their first game in Division 5. The Knights have a bye week on Opening Day, so their first game comes the following weekend, and what a game to start the season! This year, for the first time, both our teams are in the same league. That means we have our first ever competitive games against each other, with two of them at either end of the season. Knights first game is at home to the Thunder, while the final game of the regular season is the third New Forest Derby of the season, with the Knights again the home team as they host the Thunder. Both teams also have games against Taunton Pistols, Bristol Brunels and Yeovil Whrilwinds. This year there are 12 game weekends, with three fixtures against each of the other teams in the division. Only the division winners advance to the SWWBL Finals Day, to face the winner of the Wessex Division. The full schedule will be added to the website shortly.
VIDEO: Winter Training
The ThunderKnights are back for 2026 and our winter training is in full swing. This week we returned to Avonbourne Academy in Bournemouth for another great session, where our coaches covered ground balls, fly balls and batting. It was great to see so many new faces over the past two weeks, and the future is looking bright for the Thunder and the Knights. Check out our video from last week, our first session at the Romsey School: