New Forest Baseball is inviting new players to come and try the great American pastime as they work on developing a permanent home.
Following permission from Fawley Parish Council, the club will soon be installing a pitching mound and bases at Gang Warily Recreation Centre. This will give the Thunder Knights a permanent home in the New Forest, fulfilling one of the key ambitions that the club set out to achieve on their founding in 2022.
With the sport set to be played at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and Major League Baseball continuing to play a yearly series in London, enthusiasm for the sport is growing across the UK. The British Baseball Federation now contains clubs from all over the UK, with the Thunder Knights predominantly competing against teams in the South West of England.
As the preparation for the new field continues and baseball itself grows in popularity, the club is now recruiting for new players ahead of the 2025 season. No experience is required, although those that have played before are definitely welcome, equipment is available to borrow and thorough coaching is provided.
Since its founding in 2022, New Forest Baseball has doubled in size with players joining from Southampton, Eastleigh and Winchester. To ensure the long term future of the club, more committed players are always needed. Anyone aged 16+ is welcome, with both men and women playing in both of the club’s existing teams.

“As one of the new players that joined the Thunder Knights after their founding, I have been made to feel incredibly welcome. The chance to play an exciting and ever growing sport is something I have loved doing and I would encourage anyone thinking of trying something new to come and have a go.”
New Forest Knights Co-Manager, Lewis Kelly
The Thunder Knights are currently at the start of their pre-season training, using sports halls across the region to practice on a Sunday morning. During the season this will move to Gang Warily on a Wednesday evening. The club has entered the Thunder in the BBF’s AA division for the 2025 season, with the Knights continuing at the Single A level.
For more details please contact us via Instagram, Facebook or by emailing info@newforestbaseball.co.uk.