Two young Redcliffe softballers are preparing for the opportunity of a lifetime, as they get ready to represent Australia at the World Baseball Softball Confederation World Cup in Italy.
Read: Redcliffe Softball Community Scores Major Clubhouse Upgrade
Mackenzie Emonson, 14, and Leilani Malo, 15, have earned their spots in the national squad after impressive performances for Queensland at the National Under-16 Girls’ Championships in Perth earlier this year. Their selection for the Australian team was confirmed in February, and preparations have been building ever since.
The World Cup, which will be held in Milan from June 27 to July 5, will see the Redcliffe duo compete against some of the strongest softball nations, including the USA, Canada, Japan, and Mexico. Australia, alongside American Samoa, qualified through the Oceania region and will face off against 11 other teams in Legnano and Caronno Pertusella.
For both Mackenzie and Leilani, this tournament marks the pinnacle of their sporting journeys so far. The pair admitted they were surprised but thrilled to have been selected for the World Cup squad. Leilani said she expects to feel nervous before the opening match but believes she will settle into the tournament once the first game is behind her. Kenz, meanwhile, is focusing on giving her all on the field and hopes the nerves will fade as she plays.
Leilani, who now lives in Burpengary and attends Deception Bay State High School, began her sporting life playing tee-ball in New Zealand before switching to softball after moving to Australia in 2017. A former rugby player, she made the decision to concentrate on softball after an injury steered her away from contact sports. She now plays primarily as a pitcher.
Kenz, a proud Redcliffe local and student at Earnshaw State College in Banyo, also got her start with tee-ball at the age of six. She joined the Redcliffe Leagues Softball Association in 2016 and has since developed her skills in the outfield.
Read: Redcliffe Padres: Nation’s Largest Baseball Club Driven by Local Families
While Italy is firmly in their sights, both players have also continued their state ambitions, recently helping Redcliffe finish third at the 2025 Under-16 Girls’ State Championships in Toowoomba. The tournament served as a stepping stone as they eye positions in the 2026 Queensland team.
With international experience now beckoning, these Redcliffe talents are poised to make their mark on the global stage.
Published 28-April-2025
