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? EDIT – 15/03/2026: Well, perhaps we can beat that… with our new 2026 jerseys!
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.
Double Play: Meet the MLB Stars With Familiar Names
From Major League Hall of Famers to New Forest Rookies, baseball has a way of connecting people. Here we’ve paired up a few ThunderKnights with their MLB namesakes to see if there’s more that links them than just their names. These MLB stars might have played under brighter lights, but the spirit, and the names, feel right at home here in heart of the Forest. Merrill Kelly’s rise to the majors is one of perseverance. After several years pitching in Korea, he debuted for Arizona at 30 and quickly became a cornerstone of their rotation. His story is a reminder that consistency and commitment can open big-league doors. New Forest’s Lewis Kelly knows that feeling. The 2024 Rookie of the Year made his pitching debut in 2025 while also co-managing the Knights, and now his commitment to the cause has lead him to the role of General Manager for 2026. His steady leadership and work ethic mirror his MLB counterpart’s in proving that determination travels well, no matter the level. A right-handed reliever from the Mets’ early days in the 1960’s, Darrell Sutherland was known for his reliability and calm presence on the mound. He was often one of the most dependable players, carving out a solid role as a reliever for the Mets and the Indians. Doug Sutherland (a lifelong Mets fan) brings that same presence to the Thunder. A 2025 All-Star and the newly appointed Thunder manager for 2026, Doug’s easygoing style and deep baseball knowledge make him a trusted leader and the steady hand guiding the club’s next chapter. Ted Williams remains one of baseball’s most revered hitters, combining science, skill, and swagger. A lifelong Red Sox legend and two-time MVP, he famously served as a fighter pilot in both World War II and the Korean War; then returned to baseball without missing a beat. Simply put: “The Kid” could do it all. That same spirit runs through Sam Williams, affectionately nicknamed “Slam.” A consistent offensive threat and a 2023 All-Star, Sam delivered one of the most memorable moments in Knights history. As manager he subbed himself into a game against arch rivals Bournemouth with the team trailing in the final inning, then preceded to hit a walk-off grand slam. Like his legendary namesake, Williams brings both power and poise to the plate. A hard-nosed third baseman who played for several clubs, Ray Knight’s shining moment came in the 1986 World Series with the Mets, where he earned MVP honours for his clutch hitting and fiery leadership. The kind of player every dugout needs; gritty, determined, and unafraid to get his uniform dirty. James Knight will take on a leadership role of his own this season as co-manager of the Knights for 2026. Focused, composed, and respected by teammates, he brings the same combination of accountability and quiet confidence that defined his MLB counterpart. A modern fan favourite, Steven Kwan is known for his speed, sharp instincts, and incredible ability to make contact at the plate. With a throwback playing style and a focus on fundamentals, he’s quickly become a symbol of smart, team-first baseball; a perfect modern example of consistency and heart. Ivan Kwan brings that same textbook reliability to the New Forest lineup. Known for his consistency and attention to detail, he’s the kind of player every team needs; calm, prepared, and steady in any situation. Marty Barrett was the kind of player who made good teams better. An underrated part of the Red Sox of the ’80s, the second baseman was known for his consistency, sharp defence, and smart situational hitting. His standout performance in the 1986 postseason cemented his place in Boston baseball lore as the definition of reliable. Shaun Barrett has earned a similar reputation for New Forest. A sharp outfielder with dependable defence and a knack for getting on base, he’s regularly among the club’s stolen base leaders. Like his namesake, his reliability makes him one of the team’s most valuable everyday players. Before his executive days in Boston, Haywood Sullivan built his career behind the plate; a cerebral catcher with leadership qualities that extended well beyond the field. His career spanned decades in baseball, both on and off the field, showing how a love for the game can take many different forms. Mitch Sullivan continues that catching legacy for the ThunderKnights. Known for his deep understanding of the game and strong communication with pitchers, he’s the kind of presence every rotation wants behind the mask; smart, steady, and respected. A promising young talent in the Angels’ system, Christian Moore represents the new wave of athletic, multi-skilled players coming through the ranks. He’s adaptable, confident, and ready for any role. Still early in his professional journey, he’s one to watch for fans who love seeing the next generation rise. Andy Moore has shown his adaptability and ability to fill any role since New Forest Baseball’s founding. A 2023 All-Star and General Manager from 2022 through 2025, he’s contributed at every level; pitching at Single-A, Double-A, and Triple-A over the last three years. His hard work off the field has established the club and has been fundamental in establishing Gang Warily as the clubs home. His versatility has been central to the ThunderKnights’ growth and success. A left-hander for the California Angels in the early ’90s, Hilly Hathaway was known for his smooth delivery and calm poise under pressure — the kind of pitcher who never seemed rattled, no matter the situation. Rozi Hathaway brings that same steady presence to the Knights. She plays with composure and focus, anchoring the team with a quiet confidence that mirrors her Major League namesake. Billy Martin made his name as a fiery second baseman and one of baseball’s most colourful managers, known for his competitiveness and sheer will to win. Ben Martin showed that same spark in his rookie season with New Forest Baseball in 2025. His energy and intensity made an instant impact on the club — a player who, much like the
Committee Update: New Leadership Team Elected for 2026
With the close of the 2025 season comes a new chapter for New Forest Baseball, as several long-serving Committee members step down and a fresh team is elected to guide the club forward. The most significant change is at the top, with General Manager Andy Moore stepping down after three years at the helm. Andy has been instrumental in bringing the ThunderKnights to life and overseeing a period of real growth. His legacy includes two competitive teams and the creation of a brand-new ballpark at Gang Warily. The club extends its sincere thanks and best wishes to Andy for all his dedication and leadership. Also stepping aside are other founding members of the club. Sam Williams and Shaun Barrett have both stepped down as Treasurers, with Williams also moving on from his role as Knights Co-Manager. Shannon Hall departs as Head Coach and Thunder Manager, while Kieran Jewell did not seek re-election as Social Secretary. The club is grateful to all outgoing committee members for their tireless contributions. They leave behind a stronger, more vibrant club having laid the foundations that the new members will seek to build upon. Looking ahead, a new Committee has been formed. Lewis Kelly takes over as General Manager, stepping up from his role as Knights Co-Manager. He will be succeeded in that role by Ben Coxhill and James Knight. Doug Sutherland becomes the new Thunder Manager, while Bryan Barry and Sam Powell take on the roles of Treasurers. This year also sees the introduction of a new position: Club Secretary, a role filled by Al Galpin, who will also continue as Communications Officer. He will work alongside returning Social Media Officer Rozi Hathaway, joined this year by Cameron Houghton. Ben Coxhill and Leigh Froud remain in post as Equipment Officers, while the Committee welcomes Luke Callum as the new Social Secretary. Rounding out the team, Ian Tiffen has been recognised for his outstanding work on the Gang Warily field with the official title of Groundskeeper and a place on the Committee.
Knights and Thunder Stars Crowned in 2025 Awards
The weekend marked the club’s annual End of Season Awards Night, the final one overseen by outgoing General Manager Andy Moore. Held at Brockenhurst Football Club, the evening featured 11 awards recognising individual excellence throughout the 2025 season. Three players stood out by collecting double honours. For the Thunder, Bobby Samuelson claimed both Offensive Player of the Year and Manager’s Player of the Season, while fellow SWWBL Double-A All-Star Doug Sutherland was named Defensive Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Season. The Knights’ standout star Andy Bashforth capped off his All-Star campaign by winning the Knights Players’ Player of the Season and the club’s prestigious overall Player of the Season. Other Knights awards included Offensive Player of the Year for Catcher Simon Schwarz, Defensive Player of the Year for Ben Coxhill, and Manager’s Player of the Season for Al Galpin. Rookie Sam Powell was a popular choice for Rookie of the Year after a superb debut season, while Ian Tiffen received the Club Contribution Award for his outstanding work on the new field at Gang Warily. The night was a true celebration of talent and commitment, shining a light on a season of great baseball during a challenging year of transition.
2025 Season Recap: Thunder and Knights Show Fight, Build for Brighter Future
The 2025 campaign will be remembered as a season of challenges, but also of growth, resilience, and lessons learned for both the Thunder and the Knights. While the final standings may not reflect the full story, the foundation has been laid for stronger seasons ahead. For the Thunder, their debut year in the SWWBL’s brand-new Double-A division brought excitement, learning curves, and plenty of memorable moments. Despite a schedule disrupted by cancellations and forfeits, the Thunder still managed to make their mark with four victories. They opened the season in explosive fashion with a 20–9 victory over the Cornish Claycutters, capped by a towering three-run homer from Shannon Hall. Later, they delivered one of the league’s most unforgettable games, storming back with a nine-run rally in the bottom of the final inning to walk off the Bristol Bats, 17–16. Those flashes of resilience and power proved the Thunder can compete at this higher level — and with a year’s experience now behind them, the team looks well-positioned to turn potential into consistency in 2026. The Knights, holding strong in the Severn Division at the Single-A level, also showed plenty of grit and determination throughout the year. Their lone victory came in thrilling fashion, when Lewis Kelly picked up the win in his first-ever pitching appearance during a 15–14 triumph over the Yeovil Whirlwinds in the second weekend of the season. Later, they produced a comeback for the ages, erupting for a 10-run final inning to earn a 19–19 tie against the Bristol Brunels. Narrow losses in several contests showed how close this group is to turning the corner, and their two hard-fought draws at season’s end proved the fight never left them. Both clubs also leaned heavily on the strength of their wider rosters, with several standout storylines shaping the year. The Thunder called up Knights stars Chris Stickland, Doug Sutherland, and Kieran Jewell after strong performances in 2024, while mid-season promotions saw Simon Schwarz, Mitch Sullivan, and Amber Rainbird join the Double-A ranks as well. Meanwhile, the Knights found fresh energy in a wave of promising rookies, with Sam Powell, Ben Martin, Ernesto Ramos, Luke Callum, and Anna-Lisa Gailey all making their mark in their first season. Their contributions not only highlighted the depth of talent within the club, but also provided a glimpse into a bright future. Taken together, the Thunder and Knights showed that the record book doesn’t capture the full story of 2025. With game-changing highlights already under their belts, young talent stepping up, and valuable experience gained at every level, both teams now look ahead to 2026 with momentum, belief, and plenty more highlight-reel moments on the horizon.
My First Taste of UK Baseball with the New Forest ThunderKnights!
Guest Writer: Alex Markiewicz Having only ever experienced live baseball a handful of times across the Atlantic, I decided it was time to experience what the sport had to offer in the UK. Last Sunday, I headed down to Gracelands Field at the Gang Warily Recreation & Community Center to catch the New Forest Knights in action against the Cardiff Merlins for a double-header. The New Forest ThunderKnights are comprised of two teams who play in the South West & Wales Baseball League (SWWBL), the New Forest Thunder play at the Double-A level and the New Forest Knights play at the Single-A level in the Severn Division. The baseball diamond at Gang Warily is the ThunderKnights new permanent home for the 2025 season. This new space was custom built for the team purely for playing baseball. It was also a move that meant the team would actually play in the New Forest from which their name derives. This isn’t your stereotypical sporting event with huge crowds but this made it more immersive. In-between innings you can hear the players grumbling about umpire decisions or missed opportunities as well as congratulating each other on a hit. The ThunderKnights are a fantastic mix of personalities – you’ve got seasoned veterans sharing the field with enthusiastic youngsters, and it was brilliant to see male and female players stepping up to the plate and making their mark. This diverse blend creates a really welcoming and inclusive vibe, something that truly stood out. What also struck me was the genuine camaraderie between the two teams. Yes, the competitive spirit was definitely there, every player giving it their all, but it was punctuated by moments of great sportsmanship. Seeing opponents high-fiving after a well-played hit or a stolen base was refreshing and added to the enjoyable atmosphere. It’s clear these teams have a mutual respect, making for a positive experience for everyone watching. Now, for someone new to baseball, the idea of a potentially lengthy nine-inning game might seem a little daunting. However, this level of British Baseball operates with a fantastic format that keeps the energy high and the game flowing. Each game has a time limit that means no new innings are to begin after 1 hour and 45 minutes, and each inning concludes if a team gets the standard three outs or the opposition scores five runs. The exception being the final “open” inning, where there is no run limit and teams often push to chase down any score deficit. This clever approach ensures a dynamic pace and makes it incredibly easy to follow. There were no long lulls, just consistent action and strategic plays that kept me on the edge of my seat. Beyond the game itself, it felt like a proper day out. There was a real community feel, with families and friends cheering on the ThunderKnights as well as some travelling fans for the Cardiff Merlins. It’s the kind of event where you can set up your lawn chair, eat some lunch while watching teams who are passionate about showing baseball isn’t just for America. My first taste of UK baseball with the New Forest ThunderKnights was an absolute blast. It’s a sport that’s accessible, exciting, and played by a team with a fantastic spirit. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging afternoon out and live in the New Forest or Southampton area, come and cheer on the ThunderKnights – you might just find yourself shouting “Play ball!” before you know it! British Baseball continues to grow, with teams representing a variety of towns and cities all over the UK. The South West & Wales Baseball League includes teams ranging from New Forest and Bournemouth, to Cornwall, Bristol and Cardiff. Find your nearest team at www.britishbaseball.org.uk.
Knights pick up first win in comeback against Yeovil
The Single-A Knights headed back to Yeovil for Game Week 2, technically a home game but being played at Bradford Abbas due to field availability. Mackenzie Wylde made his season debut on the mound, while there was also a competitive debut for Ian Tiffen. Knights Battle Hard in Game Three but Fall Just Short Against Whirlwinds The New Forest Knights put in a spirited performance against the Yeovil Whirlwinds but ultimately came up just shy in a 14–11 loss, despite a mid-game surge and standout efforts from several players. The Knights got off to a strong defensive start with a quick first out, but a pair of fielding miscues and wild pitches allowed the Whirlwinds to settle in and push across the inning-ending fifth run with just two outs. In response, the Knights capitalized on walks and errors to load the bases, with Sam Williams delivering a sacrifice fly to bring home their first run of the day. Pitcher Mack Wylde took command in the second, recording his first strikeout and combining with his defense for a scoreless frame. The Knights’ offense then roared to life with five hits in the bottom half—bookended by singles from Eddie Donald—as they batted around and posted a five-run inning to take a 6–5 lead. Yeovil responded in the third, scoring four runs after going two down early. A string of walks and a key single from Jason Tew helped the visitors reclaim the lead. But the Knights showed resilience once more, drawing six walks, taking a hit-by-pitch, and adding a single from Wylde to plate another five runs and move ahead 11–9 heading into the final inning. Mitch Sullivan moved from behind the plate to the mound to close out the game, and with the bases loaded and two outs, the pressure mounted. A costly error brought in two runs, and Tew continued his clutch day with a two-RBI single to push Yeovil ahead 14–11. Sullivan recovered to notch a strikeout and keep the deficit at three. The Knights needed a late rally and nearly found one. After two quick outs in the bottom of the fourth, Ian Tiffen reached base with a walk in his first-ever plate appearance. Wylde entered as a pinch runner and promptly stole second and third, but a soft contact grounder ended the game and sealed the Whirlwinds’ third win of the season. Knights Walk It Off in Game Two Thriller for First Win of the Season After coming up just short in Game One, the New Forest Knights responded in emphatic fashion in Game Two of their doubleheader against the Yeovil Whirlwinds, rallying from behind to seal a dramatic 15–14 walk-off win and notch their first victory of the season. Things didn’t start smoothly for the Knights, who loaded the bases early with two hits and a walk, before a dropped fly ball looked set to extend the damage. But a slick double play from Ian Tiffen at second base helped limit the damage, and Eddie Donald capped the inning with his first strikeout, holding Yeovil to just one run. Shaun Barrett led off for the Knights with a walk and a stolen base, but aggressive baserunning backfired when he was doubled off on a flyout. A quick strikeout ended the inning, keeping the score at 1–0. The Whirlwinds opened up in the second, stringing together four hits and a couple of walks to post a five-run frame. The Knights hit back with singles from Lewis Kelly and Andy Bashforth, though Kelly was ruled out after being struck by a live ball. With two outs, Tiffen recorded his first career hit, and Mack Wylde followed with a 2-RBI single. Al Galpin then drove a sharp lineout that was well snagged to end the inning. Yeovil tacked on a single run in the third thanks to 15-year-old catcher Barnabas Csicso, but the Knights responded with three of their own. Mitch Sullivan singled and Sam Williams reached on an error that brought in two runs before scoring on a sacrifice hit by Kelly, bringing the Knights within two. A five-run fourth from the Whirlwinds looked like it might put the game out of reach, but the Knights refused to go quietly, responding with five of their own. Kelly, Barrett, and Tiffen all added hits as the hosts stayed within touching distance. Yeovil edged further ahead in the fifth with two more runs, including another RBI for Jason Tew, who was eventually thrown out at the plate on a close play. The Knights were retired in order in their half of the inning, sending the game to an open sixth with a 14–10 deficit. This time, the Knights’ defense came through, with two quick outs followed by Kelly notching his first career strikeout to hold Yeovil scoreless and set the stage for late-game heroics. That K was later deemed Play of the Day by manager Sam Williams. Mitch Sullivan led off the bottom of the sixth by getting hit by a pitch, and Sam Williams followed with a single to bring him home. Kelly was also hit, and walks to Rozi Hathaway and Eddie Donald forced in a run. Wylde reached on an error to bring in another, before Galpin’s single tied the game. With the bases still loaded, Barrett showed patience at the plate and drew a walk-off walk to complete a thrilling comeback and hand the Knights a well-earned 15–14 win. The team showed grit, resilience, and timely hitting throughout, with standout moments from Lewis Kelly, Ian Tiffen, and Player of the Day; Mitch Sullivan. Manager Sam Williams said of Sullivan’s performance “After getting on base with a lead off hit by pitch in the bottom of the 6th, Mitch’s aggressive base running forced some mistakes from Yeovil to put him on 3rd, but more than that gave us a real shot at getting back in to the game. Our energy went up and that got us pumped up to win”. The Knights will look to build
2025 Opening Day Results
Sunday April 6th was Opening Day for the South West & Wales Baseball League, with both our teams in action. The New Forest Knights returned to Single-A action for the second year with a trip to league newcomers Yeovil Whirlwinds. While The New Forest Thunder moved into Double-A for the first time in a brand new SWWBL Double-A division, hosting Cornish Claycutters for the first games at our new Gracelands Field at Gang Warily. Both teams handed out debuts too, with Grant Benham making his first start for the Knights, and Ryan Bartlett playing for the Thunder. Plus Chris Stickland and Doug Sutherland played their first games at Double-A having moved to the Thunder for the 2025 season. Thunder Open Season with Explosive Win in Gracelands Field Debut The Thunder kicked off their 2025 campaign in emphatic fashion, earning a 20–9 victory over the visiting Cornish Claycutters in the inaugural game at their new home, Gracelands Field. Despite a bright start from the Claycutters, Thunder starter Bobby Samuelson quickly found his rhythm, recording his first strikeout of the season before inducing a double play to end the top half of the first inning. Samuelson then helped his own cause at the plate, driving in the Thunder’s opening run with a double. The hosts would tack on two more in the inning to take an early lead. Samuelson kept the momentum going with another clean inning in the second, bookended by a strikeout and a pair of groundouts. He continued to swing a hot bat, adding a second double in the home half, followed by another two-bagger from Rob Holbrook that extended the Thunder’s lead to 5–2. The Claycutters responded with a pair of runs in the third, capitalizing on smart baserunning to close the gap. But the Thunder answered back immediately, turning up the pressure with aggressive baserunning of their own. Their hustle forced defensive miscues from the Claycutters, allowing four more runs to cross the plate. The fourth inning brought fireworks on both sides. The Claycutters mounted a comeback with five runs on four hits and five walks, tying the game at 9–9. But the Thunder weren’t finished. In the bottom of the frame, the home side erupted for 11 runs, batting around the order with a relentless mix of base hits, stolen bases, and savvy baserunning. Shannon Hall, who had been hit by a pitch earlier in the inning, returned to the plate and capped off the rally with a dramatic three-run home run—the first in Gracelands Field history—sealing the walk-off victory under the mercy rule. It was a statement win for the Thunder and a memorable debut for their new ballpark, highlighted by Head Coach Shannon Hall’s historic blast. Thunder Fall Short in Game Two as Claycutters Take 15–6 Win The Thunder couldn’t replicate their earlier success in Game Two of the Opening Day doubleheader, falling 15–6 to the Claycutters. The visitors came out strong, scoring four runs in the first and following up with a dominant eight-run second inning, highlighted by doubles from Cruz Chourre and James Shaw. The Thunder managed just one hit in the opening frame—a double from Angus Blair—and were shut out in the second despite loading the bases. The Claycutters extended their lead with three more runs in the third, but the Thunder showed signs of life, plating five in the bottom half thanks to a flurry of walks and hit batters. A scoreless fourth for the Claycutters gave the Thunder a chance, but a quick three-out inning ended any hopes of a comeback. The loss leaves the Thunder 1–1 to start the season after a mixed Opening Day at Gracelands Field. Knights Fall Just Short in Season Opener Against Whirlwinds The Single-A New Forest Knights opened their 2025 campaign on the road with a high-scoring thriller, narrowly falling 16–15 to the Yeovil Whirlwinds in the league newcomers’ debut outing. The Knights set the tone early, with Andy Bashforth drawing a leadoff walk, swiping two bases, and scoring on Mitch Sullivan’s RBI single—the first hit of the game. That combination of patience at the plate and aggressive baserunning helped the Knights plate five runs in the top of the first. The Whirlwinds answered immediately, matching the five-run tally in their half, highlighted by a triple from Aiden Johnson. The second inning followed a similar script, with Bashforth again walking, stealing bases, and scoring, as the Knights knocked five singles and batted around for another five runs. But the hosts kept pace with three more singles of their own and added five runs, despite Knights pitcher Leigh Froud picking up his first strikeout of the season. Tied 10–10 entering the third, the Knights edged ahead with a four-run inning. Sullivan ripped an RBI double and scored on a single by player-manager Sam Williams, while Amber Rainbird picked up her first hit of the season. A close play at the plate and a strikeout left two runners stranded, keeping the score within reach. Yeovil responded with a two-out rally, capped by a two-RBI single from Andrew Vittles to put the Whirlwinds ahead 15–14 heading into the final frame. In the fourth, Bashforth led off for the fourth time and notched his first hit of the day, capping a perfect 1.000 OPS outing with three walks and eight stolen bases—including a daring steal of home. The Knights added one more run to tie the game but left the bases loaded after a pair of strikeouts and a groundout halted the momentum. Sullivan took the mound to close, quickly recording a strikeout, but a walk and a stolen base set the table for Johnson, whose single brought home the winning run. Yeovil walked it off 16–15 in a dramatic finish. Despite the loss, the Knights showed plenty of promise at the plate and on the basepaths in a game packed with offense and early-season excitement. Knights Overpowered in Game Two as Whirlwinds Complete Sweep The New Forest Knights couldn’t slow down the red-hot Yeovil Whirlwinds
Ground-Breaking News! New Forest Baseball breaks ground on a diamond at Gang Warily Recreation Ground.
The New Forest Thunder Knights have taken a huge step towards bringing a home for baseball to the New Forest. Entering their third season, New Forest Baseball Club have installed a diamond at Gang Warily Recreation Centre to provide a dedicated space for training and for games in the South West and Wales Baseball League (SWWBL). Gracelands Civil Engineering and Groundwork (Gracelands) kindly donated their time and resources to dig out the four bases and pitching mound, with members of the baseball club picking up the tools over the weekend to get the work completed. More than 20 of the current team turned out to be part of building the new home of New Forest Baseball, with New Forest Tea Co. providing refreshments. The team’s Fundraising Manager, James Knight, said: “When we started this club three years ago, we never could have foreseen the levels of success we’ve reached in such a short amount of time. From first year playoffs, to second year expansion into two teams, to a true home in our third year, our club just keeps growing. “None of this would have been possible without support from our players, families, friends, Fawley Parish Council, Gracelands, or our other sponsors and donors through the years. A massive thank you from all of us!” As a thank you to Gracelands, the field will be named “Gracelands Field at Gang Warily” for the inaugural season. It wasn’t just through support from Gracelands that the field was possible. The club managed to raise more than £2000 via crowdfunder over the winter break, with contributions from friends, family, and the wider baseball community. Ibstock Bricks also donated vital material for the building of the pitching mound. The field will host weekly training sessions on a Wednesday as well as games for both the AA New Forest Thunder and the Single A New Forest Knights. Opening Day for the British Baseball Federation is 6th April, with the New Forest Thunder kicking off their campaign in the AA League against the Cornish Claycutters. Come down as the first pitch at the new ground is thrown, and the first game of baseball is played at our new home. Notes: