Local softballers Jack Etherton and Owen Scatena do WA proud at national under-18s softball championships

Two Geraldton softballers have flown the flag for WA, with Jack Etherton and Owen Scatena producing stand-out performances for Team WA at the national under-18 men’s State tournament. The Nox Bailey Shield was held in New South Wales from January 20-25 at Blacktown International Sports Park. Batavia Blaze’s Etherton and Suiside’s Scatena shared the representative stage again after previously playing for WA’s under 16s side in 2024. Both players looked settled, confident and comfortable in a high pressure environment against the best young talent in the country. Etherton was consistent and composed on the pitchers mound across the campaign, having influence as the tournament progressed, finishing the week pitching 21.7 innings, facing 83 batters and recording an incredible 43 strikeouts. He also contributed at the plate with five hits from 10. Reflecting on the campaign, Etherton said the performances were the result of long term preparation and belief within the group. “I’m beyond happy with the team’s effort,” he said. “The grit and determination they put in to claw their way back from fourth to finish second to an extremely talented Queensland team, under some extreme circumstances, was something special. “43C heat and key players injured made it even tougher.” His performances earned recognition, with Etherton named Best Pitcher of the Tournament and selected in the All Tournament Team as pitcher in back-to-back national honours at under18 level. He was able to deliver in big moments, which More than the numbers, it was his ability to deliver in the biggest moments that set him apart. Unfazed by the occasion, he repeatedly stepped up when WA needed him most. That composure was on display in the semi final against New South Wales, where he produced a strong outing on the mound as WA secured an 8-5 win to book their place in the grand final. Scatena was vital throughout the tournament, particularly in the outfield, where his safe hands and smart reads helped shut down opposition scoring opportunities. He produced a standout defensive performance early, taking four strong outfield catches on day one. His campaign was briefly interrupted later that day after being struck in the helmet by a fast pitch against New South Wales, forcing him to miss Wednesday’s games. Later, he was cleared to field, but not bat. “That was definitely the lowest point of the tournament” he said. “I didn’t drop my head though. I continued to support my teammates and enjoyed every opportunity I was given to take to the field. “It wasn’t the best week for me personally, but I was so happy when the team made it into the grand final.” Team WA showed grit and belief throughout the tournament, sitting fourth during the latter stages before forcing their way into finals contention. A hard-fought 4-2 win over Victoria set the tone, before Sunday morning’s semi-final victory over NSW confirmed WA’s place in the decider. For Scatena, the grand final provided a fitting moment to close out the campaign. “The highlight of the tournament for me was taking to right field and getting to have one last at bat in the grand final,” he said. WA went down to a strong Queensland outfit in the grand final, losing 8-1. WA played their hearts out, but on the day Queensland had the answers and it was simply not their day.