Softball New Zealand announced the appointment of Jason Kumeroa as Head Coach and Jono Cathersides as Team Manager of the U-18 Men’s National Softball Team, known as the Junior Black Sox.
“I am honoured to embrace the challenge of guiding, growing and development our future Black Sox players,” said Kumeroa. “Softball has a strong history of whanau, tradition, and nurturing potential. As we start building towards the 2027 World Cup, I am looking forward to connecting with coaches around the country, to identify and prepare the best talent available”.
Cathersides added that: “It’s a massive honour to continue the journey and be a part of the development and growth of these young men in their pursuit to follow in the excellence set by the Black Sox this year. I am fully committed to providing the best experience and supporting the team and coaches by building the right culture and environment for the road ahead”.
Kumeroa, a former Black Sox outfielder, was first appointed in March to lead the Junior Black Sox in the Trans-Tasman test series against Australia at Colquhoun Park in Palmerston North.
Two-time world champions and seven-time medallists, New Zealand has failed to reach the podium in the last two editions of the WBSC U-18 Men’s Softball World Cup. The last time they reached the podium was in Prince Albert 2018, when they finished in third place. Previously, they earned silver in 2016 and 2014. New Zealand won the second and third editions of this event in 1985 and 1989.