Geraldton softball grand finals: Women’s grand finals claimed by Rams and Marlins

Rams and Marlins emerged victorious from two hard fought contests in the women’s softball grand finals, capping off their seasons with premiership glory.

The Geraldton Softball Association wrapped up its 2025 women’s season in spectacular fashion on Saturday, with division one and two grand finals played in front of a vocal crowd at Alexander Park.

In the division one decider, Rams held their nerve to defeat Pi’s 10-5 in a gripping seven-inning showdown.

The game was a showcase of experience, composure, and some truly world-class outfield play. Rams led early, but Pi’s refused to go quietly, pushing the game deep and keeping pressure on right to the final innings.

Pitchers Stacey Derschow (Rams) and Natalie Wisewould (Pi’s) both delivered strong performances, but it was in the outfield where the match was ultimately decided.

Rams’ Kate Harrison and Stevie Usher were exceptional, cutting off several scoring opportunities. Usher’s diving catch — one of the plays of the season — was a turning point, stopping a Pi’s rally in its tracks and lifting Rams’ momentum when it mattered most.

Harrison’s leadership and consistent performance earned her MVP honours. “Our team came together on the day despite all the nerves and played our hearts out to win the one game we play for all year,” she said. “Pi’s pushed us to seven innings but we were lucky enough to hold strong and get over the line.”

The Rams’ composure proved crucial in the final stages. With runs shared around and smart decision-making in the outfield, they shut down any hopes of a comeback. While it wasn’t the fairytale ending Pi’s hoped for, their journey to the grand final was remarkable —climbing from the bottom of the ladder to premiership contenders in just one season is an achievement worthy of celebration.

Marlins defeated Pi’s Panthers 15-6 in the division two grand final, securing their fifth consecutive title. Marlins made their intentions clear from the outset, scoring three runs in the first and then exploding for 11 runs in a game-breaking third inning.

Vanessa Gould was relentless with the bat, with three hits from four at-bats and proving a nightmare for the Panthers’ defence.

“Going in as minor premiers meant there was a bit of pressure at the start of the game,” Gould reflected. “The girls were nervous but excited and the feeling throughout the game stayed positive. Ava’s pitching and the team’s batting was what won the game for us —we knew what we needed to do to win and everyone put 100 per cent.”

Ava Gould earned MVP honours for her commanding performance in the pitching circle. She allowed just one earned run over four innings, striking out nine without giving up a single walk.

Offensively, she also chipped in with a double, while Sam Roberts, Lily Belotti and Shakiah Forsyth each drove in two runs.

Marlins finished with 14 hits and a remarkable 10 stolen bases.

“We went in with a fresh mindset—thinking go hard or go home second best,” coach Taryn Purcell said. “This is our fifth premiership in a row, but I’m feeling proud of each and every one of the girls.”

Despite the loss, Pi’s Panthers showed moments of promise. Janelle Phillips and Judi Bradley drove in runs, while Natasha Harradine went two for two at the plate. They fought to the final out but couldn’t contain Marlins’ relentless attack.