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
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:
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:
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.
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
New Forest Baseball Continues to Grow as Season Ends
After a mixed season on the field, the New Forest Baseball club have continued with their mission of growing the sport in Hampshire and Dorset, with new members joining from across the region. The positive growth of the club mirrors the successful debut season of the New Forest Knights, the club’s Single A development side, which saw the vast majority of its players make their British Baseball debuts. After being dealt a late surprise double promotion by the British Baseball Federation, the AAA New Forest Thunder struggled against opponents with greater experience and depth. However, the whole squad continued to battle, with the last home game of the season against Cardiff providing a particular highlight for 2023’s Rookie of the Year, Amber Rainbird. Back in April, the Knights roared out to a 4-2 start, with wins against the Bristol Brunels and Bournemouth Bears showcasing the ability of key players such as Lewis Kelly, Ben Coxhill and Manager Sam Williams, whose walk off Home Run in week one was arguably the highlight of the whole season. A difficult stretch ensued, as the Knights faced three of the four South West and Wales League playoff teams either side of the away leg at the Brunels. Kieran Jewell’s walk off winner against the SWWBL’s Severn Division Champion Bristol Buccaneers was the midseason highlight – closely followed by home runs for Coxhill and a rejuvenated Eddie Donald. Two forfeits by the Cornish Pioneers boosted the Knights win total, as did a final day win against the Bournemouth Bears. With most of the team having not played a single inning of baseball prior to the season, eight wins, a team batting average of .347 and .999 OPS provides an incredibly strong basis for Williams and the team to build upon in 2025. Over a season in which they only faced three teams, the Cardiff Merlins, Bristol Badgers and Bracknell Inferno, the Thunder picked up seven wins as they were often overmatched at the plate and struggled for pitching depth when Chris Lawson, Shannon Hall and Al Banerjee weren’t available. However, despite a tough season, there were plenty of positives. Amber Rainbird picked up her first hit of the season in the Thunder’s last game, taking a pitch from Cardiff’s Eiki Ito through the shortstop and third base gap. Banerjee came incredibly close to a no-hitter against the Merlins in a midseason clash, and Bobby Samuelson tripled against Bracknell at Farnham Park. As the offseason kicks off, the club is moving forward with plans for a permanent home in the New Forest. Backed by a range of amazing sponsors, the Mailman’s Arms, Clayson Scaffolding, the International Sports Turf and the New Forest Tea co, the club also enters the autumn break in a much stronger financial position, ready for a successful 2025.
Huge Sponsorship Boost for New Forest Baseball
New Forest Baseball are delighted to announce Clayson Scaffolding as the latest company to sponsor the club. An incredibly generous sponsorship contribution from Clayson has helped to ensure the club has the funding to pursue growth and the further development of its existing players. With the cost of field hire and equipment a constant issue for clubs across the country, this latest sponsorship deal has helped the Thunder Knights to cover all match day hire through the 2024 season. In turn, this has allowed the reallocation of funds towards a prospective permanent home for the club, as well as much needed equipment such as balls and protective wear. New Forest Knights Manager & Club Treasurer, Sam Williams, said: “We’ve been very fortunate to have brought in some fantastic sponsors this season, which is testament to our players and the local community who are working hard to support the club. “Our goal from day one of the club was to make it sustainable and grow baseball in the New Forest and the surrounding region. Clayson’s support is invaluable and will help us achieve this goal, giving us a strong platform to finish this season and move in 2025.” Based in Dorset, Clayson Scaffolding provide services across the South West of England. With decades of experience, owner Leigh Cornick is more than happy to help with all things scaffolding, no matter how big or small the job is. On the field, the New Forest Thunder got back on track against the Bristol Badgers at the weekend, picking up a 6-2 win in their home opener. Chris Lawson pitched seven strong innings, striking out six and allowing only four hits throughout the full game. Bobby Samuelson made the play of the game with a stunning diving catch in the outfield, and the Thunder bats got to work with eight hits against the hard and fast pitching of Alex Martinson. A run of home games awaits the Thunder as they make up for a long spring on the road. Cardiff are next up, as they make the trip from South Wales on Sunday. ENDS
Thunderstruck – First AAA Win of the Season
The New Forest Thunder picked up their first win at the AAA level after an intense day of baseball in Cardiff on Saturday. Across two low scoring games the Thunder pitching duo of Chris Lawson and Shannon Hall gave everything they had to put the New Forest team in a position to take two wins against the Merlins. Sadly, the second game slipped away in the very last inning, but the show that both teams put on was a testament to the way they have stepped up two levels in 2024. Game one was all about the pitching display put on by Lawson as he struck out 11 and only allowed five hits through seven innings. In a characteristically determined performance, the Thunder starter got stronger as the game developed, striking out the final batter and stranding a runner in scoring position. Earlier in the matchup, the away side’s plate discipline and some timely hitting put six runs on the board through the first three innings. First inning RBIs for Lawson and Marcus Senior, along with a throwing error put three runs on the board, before Warren Doyle and Bobby Samuelson came into score in the second following a single to left field from Hall. Assured fielding from Rob Holbrook, Angus Blair and Hall helped seal the victory, with Lewis Kelly and Andy Swann also contributing on their AAA debuts as the New Forest side held on for a 6-4 victory. After a short break in the Welsh sun, the second game proved to be even tighter than game one. On the mound, Hall struck out twelve and only allowed three hits in a dominant display. However, the Thunder bats couldn’t quite back up their starter and the away side succumbed to a walk off 1-0 win after seven tense innings. Senior, Hall and Andy Moore put hits on the board to match the three from the Merlins, but the New Forest side couldn’t get the luck they needed as several well hit balls were excellently fielded by the Cardiff third baseman and centre fielder. With the game seemingly heading to extra innings, Nick South made his way around the bases after pinch running for Rhodri Cavell. With one out and the runner on third, Griffin Phillippi made enough contact to force the ball back past the mound and Lawson’s throw to Holbrook behind the plate couldn’t quite prevent the winning run from scoring. The New Forest Knights were also in action, as they made their first visit to Bristol to play the division topping Buccaneers. Strong hitting performances from Sam Williams, Ben Coxhill and Doug Sutherland weren’t quite enough to see the Knights come away with a win. However, Williams was upbeat despite the results, seeing a lot of positives, including some good pitching from Coxhill to finish the second game of the day. Game one saw the Knights rally around starter, Chris Stickland, several times as the Buccaneers were made to work at the plate and on the bases. Some good fielding from Coxhill and Sutherland limited the home side to one run in the second inning, before a rasping line drive double from Williams helped bring the Knights close. Eddie Donald and Dan Churchill added hits, as the away side had one of their best days at the plate of the season, but a strong Buccaneers lineup kept the line moving and walked away with a 15-5 win. It was much the same in the second game, where Williams and Coxhill hit well again, but the home side were able to take advantage of a number of walks to put the game beyond the reach of the Knights. Shaun Barrett added three runs to his stolen base total after a couple of walks, bringing his season tally to 17 and four behind Coxhill’s team leading 21. Jordan Snelling also got in on the stolen base action after drawing a fourth inning walk, but it wasn’t enough to close the gap as the home side ran out 20-6 winners. The Thunder return to Cardiff to face the Merlins again next Saturday, whilst the Knights return to Bristol for a crucial matchup with the Brunels.