Queensland will attempt to claim yet another 2022 National Championship, when the U23 Men’s event kicks off at the picturesque Jells Park at Waverley Softball Association from 28 April – 1 May.

Defending champions Queensland will be joined by Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, and hosts Victoria at this year’s event, which has been possible thanks to the support of the Victorian Government.

Only three states have ever won the Laing Harrow Shield since its inception in 2004.

NSW won the inaugural championship, and last claimed the title in 2016. The ACT also won a hat-trick of Championships from 2006 to 2008, before the tournament was dropped from the National Championship schedule for six years.

Queensland have subsequently dominated the age group since it returned to the program in 2015, winning three straight titles as well from 2017-2019 on their home soil.

The Queenslanders will also be looking to continue their stellar form during the 2022 National Championship cycle, having already won both the Men’s and Women’s titles at the Under 18 and Under 14 Championships earlier this month.

22 games over four days will determine the 2022 National Champion, with athletes at the event also pushing their claim for national team selection.

Later this year the Australian Under 23 Men’s team will compete at the inaugural U23 Men’s World Cup in Argentina.

The Under 23 Men’s trophy is named after Softball Australia and International Hall of Famer, Laing Harrow, a leading figure in the history of Australian Men’s softball.

Softball Victoria and Softball Australia are grateful for the support of the Victorian Government to host this event.