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:
Ever Thought About Playing Baseball?
You don’t need to have grown up watching it.You don’t need to own a glove.You don’t even need to know the rules (yet). If you’ve ever thought “I’d love to try baseball” or even “I wonder what that’s like” then this is your sign. New Forest Baseball is looking for new players; people aged 16+, of all genders, all backgrounds, and all skill levels to come and be part of something special. No Experience? No Problem. Most of our players started exactly where you might be now: curious, unsure, and wondering if baseball was “for them”. Some had never picked up a bat. Some had never even seen a full game. What they found was a sport that’s fun, challenging, social, and surprisingly addictive — and a club that’s welcoming from day one with an amazing atmosphere. Our coaches are experienced, patient, and genuinely enjoy helping people learn the game. Our players are friendly, supportive, and always happy to help newcomers find their feet. You’ll be guided every step of the way, whether it’s your first swing or your hundredth. Why Baseball? Why Here? Baseball is a game of skill, teamwork, and those moments you’ll talk about for years to come. It’s competitive but social, intense but welcoming, and there’s a place for everyone… whatever your background or sporting history. At New Forest Baseball, we play the game the New Forest way: with fun, passion, positivity, teamwork, and respect. If that sounds like something you’d want to be part of, we’d love to hear from you. Ready to Give It a Go? If you’re interested in joining, or just want to come along and see what baseball is all about, get in touch! Your next great season could start right here.Play ball.
Winter Training Dates Confirmed for 2026
New Forest Baseball is pleased to confirm the schedule for our 2026 Winter (Indoor) Training programme, which gets underway on Sunday 11th January at The Romsey School. Winter training sessions will mostly be split between Romsey and Avonbourne Academy in Bournemouth. This split should make it easier for players from both sides of the Forest to attend our indoor sessions throughout the winter months. These sessions are a key part of our off-season programme, focusing on skills, fitness, throwing, hitting fundamentals, and plenty of baseball fun in an indoor setting. Whether you’re a returning player looking to stay sharp, or completely new to the sport, winter training is a great way to stay involved and build towards the new season. Winter Training Schedule New Players Welcome If you’ve ever thought about giving baseball a go, this is the perfect time to jump in. New players are very welcome at any of these sessions, and your first few sessions are completely free, giving you a chance to try the sport, meet the team, and see what we’re all about. No pressure, no experience required. All you really need is comfortable sportswear and a willingness to have a go. We’ll provide the coaching, the equipment, and the encouragement. And fair warning… there’s a very good chance you’ll love it as much as we do. For more information, or to let us know you’re coming along, get in touch via the website, email info@newforestbaseball.co.uk or our social channels. We’d love to see you there. Full Winter Training Dates:
Thank You, and Merry Christmas
As the year draws to a close and the Forest settles into winter, we wanted to take a moment to say a simple but heartfelt thank you. New Forest Baseball exists because people show up, week after week, in all weathers, with energy, patience, and a love for the game. This year we set up our own home on the edge of the New Forest, and you all came together to help fund and build our Diamond at Gang Warily. We keep making steps forward as a club, and that only happens because of the people involved. To our players: Whether this was your first ever season of baseball or one of many, thank you for turning up, giving things a go, supporting each other, and embracing the spirit of the game. Watching players learn, improve, and enjoy baseball together is what this club is all about. To our coaches, managers, umpires, scorers, and volunteers: Thank you for the time, effort, and care you put in behind the scenes. So much of what keeps the club running happens quietly and without fuss, but it doesn’t go unnoticed. We couldn’t do this without you. To our supporters, families, and friends: Thank you for the lifts, the encouragement, the sideline support, and the willingness to watch a sport that still occasionally needs explaining. Your support means more than you probably realise. To our partners and sponsors: Thank you for helping make baseball in the New Forest possible. Your support allows us to grow the game and provide opportunities for people to get involved. And to those members who have decided to move on from the club this year: Thank you. Thank you for being part of our journey, for the time you spent with us, and for the role you played in shaping New Forest Baseball. You’ll always be part of the club’s story, and you leave with our best wishes for whatever comes next. Once a ThunderKnight, always a ThunderKnight. Throughout the year, we’ve seen the values of The New Forest Way in action; playing with fun, passion, positivity, teamwork, and respect. Those values matter just as much off the field as they do on it, and we’re proud of the culture that’s growing around this club. We’re already looking ahead to what’s next, with winter training just around the corner and exciting things on the horizon. But for now, we hope everyone gets a well-earned break, enjoys the festive period, and comes back refreshed and ready for another year of baseball. From all of us… thank you for being part of New Forest Baseball. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. — The New Forest Baseball Committee