South African Baseball’s outstanding campaign at the 2026 PONY International Women’s Baseball World Series in Shanghai, China, was recognised with a number of prestigious individual awards, highlighting the exceptional performances delivered by both the senior and Under-23 women’s teams throughout the tournament.
Leading the honours was senior national team player Gena Poulton, who enjoyed a remarkable tournament after being named the Most Valuable Player (MVP). Poulton also claimed the Best Batter award and finished the tournament with the Most Home Runs, underlining her outstanding contribution to South Africa’s championship-winning campaign.
Senior teammate Nikki Grobler was also recognised for an exceptional tournament, receiving both the Best Pitcher and Best Fielder awards after consistently producing outstanding performances in the circle and in the field.
The South African Under-23 team also celebrated individual success following an impressive tournament that saw them secure a third-place finish.
Riley Jeftha was named the Best Batter in the Under-23 division after consistently producing with the bat throughout the competition, while Hayley Scott Maree received the Best Coach award in recognition of her leadership and contribution to the team’s successful campaign.
The awards capped an outstanding tournament for South African Baseball, with the senior women lifting the 2026 PONY Women’s Baseball World Series title and the Under-23 side returning home with a bronze medal.
News of the achievements has already reached South Africa, adding to the excitement surrounding the teams’ success. The individual honours recognise not only exceptional performances on the field but also the hard work, dedication and commitment shown throughout the tournament by the players and coaching staff.
As the teams prepare to return home, they do so with medals, individual accolades and memories that will last a lifetime. Their performances in Shanghai have brought immense pride to South Africa ahead of National Women’s Day, while inspiring the next generation of girls to dream of representing their country on the international stage.
