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
Join the Team Behind the Teams
New Forest Baseball is already looking ahead to the 2026 season with big ambitions and fresh energy. A brand-new Committee has been elected to guide the next stage of development for our two teams, the Thunder and the Knights, and we’re determined to make this our most exciting year yet; on and off the field. Media Team One key part of that journey is telling our story better. From thrilling walk-offs to rookie debuts, every moment matters. And we want to capture it all. That’s where you come in. We’re looking for passionate volunteers to help bring New Forest Baseball to life. Whether you’re a budding sports writer looking for experience in a different sport, a keen photographer eager to sharpen your skills, a student videographer looking to build a portfolio, or simply someone who loves the game and wants to be closer to the action, this is your chance to be part of something special. ✅ Cover live games and capture the emotion on the field and the spirit of the club✅ Write reports and features that showcase the drama and the players✅ Help grow the visibility of baseball in the New Forest and beyond You don’t need to be a pro; just enthusiastic, reliable, and ready to get involved. We’ll support you with access to games, introductions to the teams, and a platform to share your work with our community of fans. If you’re interested in joining our talented media team, drop us a message on our socials or email us at media@newforestbaseball.co.uk. Gameday Team If writing posts or getting behind a camera isn’t really your style, then there are plenty of other ways to get involved! We’re always excited to welcome new people who’d like to support the team as Scorers or Umpires. You don’t need any experience to start. We’ll help arrange training, guide you through everything, and make sure you feel confident in the role. Plus, qualified Umpires receive a small match fee as a thank-you for their time. If you’d like to find out more or have any questions, just drop us an email at info@newforestbaseball.co.uk. ⚾ Help us make 2026 a season to remember. Be part of it.
2025 ThunderKnights Wrapped
2025 was a year of big swings, bigger moments, and absolute chart-toppers on the diamond. From breakout rookies dropping surprise hits to veteran sluggers staying on repeat, the New Forest lineup put up numbers worthy of the year’s hottest playlist. So plug in, turn it up, and scroll through your ThunderKnights Wrapped; a stat-packed highlight reel of the players who dominated the charts, climbed the rankings, and kept the season playing on loop. Let’s hit play… The Hit Makers Most Hits in 2025 Mitch Sullivan 18 Eddie Donald 17 Andy Bashforth 16 Sam Williams 13 Doug Sutherland 13 MOST PLAYED Most Plate Appearances in 2025 Andy Bashforth 49 Eddie Donald 47 Sam Williams 44 Ben Coxhill 41 Sam Powell 35 TOP CHARTERS Best Average in 2025 (minimum 10 PA) Mitch Sullivan .783 Angus Blair .714 Amber Rainbird .600 Kieran Jewell .588 Doug Sutherland .481 MOST STREAMS Most Stolen Bases in 2025 Andy Bashforth 34 Ben Coxhill 26 Eddie Donald 26 Lewis Kelly 21 Simon Schwarz 21 The headliners Highest On Base Plus Slugging in 2025 (min. 10 PA) Shannon Hall 1.950 Angus Blair 1.857 Mitch Sullivan 1.827 Bobby Samuelson 1.381 Doug Sutherland 1.341 MOST PLAYLISTED Most Used Pitcher (by innings pitched) in 2025 Bobby Samuelson 13.1 Leigh Froud 13.1 Doug Sutherland 12.0 Andy Moore 10.1 Sam Williams 8.0 k-pop Icons Most Strikeouts (as a pitcher) in 2025 Leigh Froud 12 Sam Williams 10 Bobby Samuelson 9 Andy Moore 6 Doug Sutherland 6 BREAKOUT ARTISTS Best Performing Rookies of 2025 Sam Powell Ernesto Ramos Anna-Lisa Gailey Ben Martin Luke Callum OTHER CHART TOPPERS Stat Leaders from Other Categories Most Runs: Eddie Donald / Mitch Sullivan 18 Most Runs Batted In: Sam Williams 19 Most Walks (as a batter): Leigh Froud 16 Least Strikeouts: Mitch Sullivan / Angus Blair 0 Most Total Bases: Mitch Sullivan 23 Most Put-Outs: Chris Stickland 22 And that’s a wrap on our season’s greatest hits. From clutch performers to breakout stars, every player added their own verse to the New Forest soundtrack in 2025. Whether you topped the charts, smashed personal bests, or just kept the rhythm going week after week, you helped make this year one to remember. Thanks for being part of the band; and here’s to an even bigger, louder, and better-mixed season ahead. Turn the volume up… 2026 is loading.
The Top 10 Forest-Based Sports Jerseys of All Time
From football to basketball to baseball, a number of clubs have embraced forest iconography, woodland names, or shades of green in their jerseys; just like the New Forest ThunderKnights! With that in mind, here is our completely objective, entirely scientific, and definitely unbiased rundown of the Top 10 Forest-Themed Sports Jerseys of All Time. 10. Vermont Green FC (USL League 2) Vermont Green FC may be a young club — founded in 2022 — but they’ve already built one of the most distinctive identities in modern football. Their mission goes far beyond the pitch: the club is committed to weaving environmental justice into everything they do, from how they compete to how they operate. That ethos shines through in their 2025 home shirt, a rich forest-green kit wrapped in an elegant ivy pattern that feels equal parts stylish and symbolic. Made from 100% recycled polyester, it’s a jersey that doesn’t just look good, it stands for something. 9. Southampton (EFL Championship) Southampton FC’s 2023/24 Third Kit is the closest thing on this list to our own backyard. Built around the iconic tree in the club crest and officially inspired by the New Forest, it was basically destined to earn a place here. The shirt features a bold, camouflage-style pattern of trees in black, charcoal, and grey. But we can’t help but imagine how sharp it would have looked with a splash of our favourite green! 8. Minnesota Timberwolves (NBA) Timberwolves were always a shoe in for this list, I mean you can’t have timber without a Forest! But to help them place higher the Wolves’ have recently announced the revival of their “Black Trees” jersey, which will feature in the 2025/26 season. 7. Sacramento Republic (USL Championship) With an estimated seven million trees throughout the region, Sacramento’s urban forest is one of the largest in the world. And Sacramento Republic drew inspiration from that for their 2022 “City of Trees” alternate shirt, featuring a green wood-grain pattern across a black background symbolic of the shade from Sacramento’s dense tree canopy and urban forest. 6. Vancouver Canadians (MiLB) The Vancouver Canadians’ Lumberjack Alternate is a masterpiece of Minor League marketing; a jersey that looks like it could win a ballgame and chop firewood without breaking a sweat. Inspired by British Columbia’s logging heritage, it feels like it came straight out of a cabin in the mountains. Worn with equal parts irony and pride, it’s one of the most memorable recent alternates in baseball. 5. Forest Green Rovers (National League) The self-proclaimed “greenest football club in the world” absolutely earns a place here. They’ve gone from traditional stripes to a standout Lime Popsicle base with bold leopard print patterns that make you feel like you’re watching football on a nature documentary channel. Their commitment to sustainability is admirable, and their kits are unmistakable. 4. Nottingham Forest (Premier League) A historic name, a large fanbase, and a badge featuring a tree that’s somehow adorable and intimidating at the same time. Forest may not be known for radical kit changes, after all sometimes classic red done right is all you need. But their 1992/93 third kit is a gorgeous green number. A quiet giant in the woodland jersey category. 3. Portland Timbers (MLS) If you name your team after the local logging industry, you’d better deliver on the forest aesthetics. And the Timbers do just that. Rich greens, axe motifs, and a loyal fanbase that literally cuts a log slice every time the team scores. Their kits ooze lumberjack swagger, and we particularly like this 2024/25 Community Jersey. 2. Portland Hearts of Pine (USL League 1) A cult favourite among sports-shirt connoisseurs, the Portland Hearts of Pine have built an almost mythical reputation for beautifully niche forest-themed kits. Their home “Woods & Water” jersey is the standout: deep green and navy hoops representing Maine’s endless pine forests and sprawling coastline, tied together with a wonderfully retro collar and a splash of red that pops like a campfire ember in the dark. It’s the kind of jersey that says, “Yes, I hike, and yes, I know what craft beer pairs with a 4–3–3 formation.” A perfect fit for any ranking celebrating tree-powered greatness. 1. New Forest ThunderKnights (South West & Wales Baseball League) Now, some will claim that placing ourselves at number one is biased.They’re right.But also: we simply don’t care. You just can’t beat this….. can you?
Our Favourite Baseball Movies
Baseball season may be over, but there’s no off-season when it comes to great baseball films. And as the nights draw in, what better time to curl up with a good movie? We asked the ThunderKnights to cast their votes, and after plenty of debate, here are the team’s top nine baseball movies; counted down from #9 to the unanimous favourite. 9. BASEketball (1998) Ok, this is our left field pick. A real curveball. It was a write-in nomination from Angus Blair. BASEketball is a chaotic blend of slapstick comedy, sports parody, and late-90s absurdity. Staring Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the minds behind South Park, it isn’t “baseball” in the traditional sense, but its irreverent humour, ridiculous rules, and underdog spirit have made it a cult favourite. 8. Bull Durham (1988) Chosen by: Doug Sutherland, Thunder Manager. Long before analytics took over the game, Bull Durham showed the beauty, frustration, and poetry of minor league ball. Kevin Costner’s veteran catcher, a young Tim Robbins, and Susan Sarandon’s iconic Annie Savoy combine for a smart, witty, and deeply baseball-savvy film. A favourite for anyone who appreciates the grind behind the game. 7. Mr. Baseball (1992) Chosen by: Shaun Barrett. What happens when a loud, brash American slugger is traded to Japan? Culture shock, comedy, and surprisingly, some of the best cross-culture baseball storytelling ever filmed. Tom Selleck’s moustache alone earns this one a spot on the list, but the genuine heart beneath the humour is what keeps players coming back. Fun Fact: Knights player Al Galpin wears #54 because of this movie, the number worn in Japan by Tom Selleck. 6. Rookie of the Year (1993) Chosen by: Ivan Kwan. Few childhood baseball dreams top suddenly gaining a 100-mph fastball. This family classic taps into pure wish-fulfilment: a kid playing in the big leagues, Wrigley Field roaring behind him. Half fantasy, half comedy, all nostalgia. It’s the film that made many of us check our arms after slipping on a staircase. Into the top 5 now, and it’s down to the movies which all received multiple votes from our players! 5. 42 (2013) Starring: Chadwick Boseman, Harrison Ford42 tells the powerful and moving true story of Jackie Robinson’s groundbreaking entry into Major League Baseball in 1947 with the Brooklyn Dodgers. It features a brilliant performance from the late Chadwick Boseman and a memorable turn from Harrison Ford as Dodgers GM Branch Rickey. It’s respected for its emotional weight, historical importance, and the way it honours Robinson’s courage in breaking baseball’s colour barrier. Inspiring, moving, and essential, the movie remains essential viewing for baseball fans and non-fans alike. 4. A League of Their Own (1992) Starring: Geena Davis, Tom Hanks, Madonna, Lori PettyA League of Their Own tells the story of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League during World War II. With standout performances and memorable moments; like Tom Hanks shouting “There’s no crying in baseball!” It’s funny, heartfelt, and inspiring. It endures because it showcases women’s impact on the sport, blending history, humour, and real emotional depth. 3. Field of Dreams (1989) Starring: Kevin Costner, James Earl Jones, Ray LiottaA magical, emotional classic, Field of Dreams tells the story of Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella, who hears the famous whisper: “If you build it, he will come.” What follows is a heartfelt journey about family, hope, and the lasting pull of baseball. Kevin Costner anchors the film with warmth and sincerity. It remains loved because it captures the romantic, almost mythical side of the sport; baseball as memory, connection, and healing. 2. The Sandlot (1993) Starring: Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, James Earl JonesA beloved coming-of-age film, The Sandlot follows a group of neighbourhood kids enjoying a summer of baseball, mischief, and friendship. Told with huge nostalgia and charm, it’s one of the most quotable baseball movies ever (“You’re killin’ me, Smalls!”). Fans love it because it reminds them why they fell in love with the game in the first place; simple joy, wide-open summers, and playing for the love of it. 1. Moneyball (2011) The clear winner, with double the number of votes of the runner up. Moneyball combines modern baseball strategy with a true story of innovation, defiance, and rethinking the game from the ground up. The movie tells the true story of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane as he builds a winning team using data analytics instead of big budgets. It blends smart writing with great performances, especially Brad Pitt’s understated lead role and great performances from Jonah Hill and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Players love it because it shows the strategy behind the sport; how numbers, grit, and creativity can compete with raw power. It’s often the go-to favourite for anyone who enjoys the brainy side of baseball. What do you think of the list?Would you pick differently? Let us know; and maybe we’ll arrange a watch-along movie night this off-season.