Nothing Can Strike Them Out: OM Softball’s Fight to Rebuild
- 275times
- 11 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Once the beating heart of Auckland softball, Norana Softball Park in Favona, formerly known as the Lion Red Ballpark, is being revitalised thanks to the dedication of the volunteers at Onehunga-Māngere United Softball Club (OM Softball).
Once home to national tournaments and bustling weekend crowds, the park had fallen into disrepair after Auckland Softball sold it to Council in 2008. Now, OM Softball is leading a community effort to restore the grounds, rebuild the diamonds, and bring the venue back to life.
OM Softball’s move to Norana followed a difficult decision in 2024 to leave their longtime home on Māngere Mountain due to rising costs. The club re-formed as an independent society in July, starting from scratch and fundraising tirelessly to replace lost equipment, uniforms, and funds. Sharon Lockhart-Beattie, a committee member, described the difficulty:
“It was a mighty challenge - but the Committee and members worked tirelessly to fundraise by way of quiz nights, raffles, sausage sizzles, sponsorship, and applying for many funding grants to ensure our players had uniforms and gear to start the 2024/25 season that October.”
With support from Auckland Council and the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board, Diamond 1 has been restored and is ready for competition games. Plans are underway to rebuild two additional diamonds and restore Norana to its former status as a premier softball venue capable of hosting tournaments and more home games. The work has required dedication from a hearty bunch of volunteers, who have been central to fundraising, planning, and preparing the grounds.
On the field, OM Softball has marked a significant milestone by re-entering the Reserve Men’s grade for the first time in 25 years. The season opened with a strong 10–7 win against Howick, signalling a successful return to higher-level competition. Despite a heartbreaking break-in on opening weekend, which saw equipment including a pitching machine, generator, and line marker stolen, the club has been buoyed by community support.
Sharon said of the response: “While the break-in was such an upsetting incident, we feel very reassured with the support of so many that we have and will get back up and continue to have the successful exciting season of softball that we have been looking forward to.”
OM Softball’s teeball programme is also thriving, with teams competing against neighbouring clubs, while junior and senior teams prepare for the full season ahead. A formal blessing and reopening of Norana Park is planned to celebrate the regeneration and the community’s efforts. Volunteers continue to play a pivotal role, helping run teams, fundraise, and support players on and off the field.
Softball at OM isn’t just about the game, it’s about community and growth.
Sharon highlighted the wider benefits.
“Softball not only teaches and grows amazing lifelong skills but also grows a family sports community. It gives our kids and ourselves the opportunity to get outside, get engaged and enjoy a sport that has limitless benefits for our minds and bodies.”
For more info, head to:
or email onehungamangeresoftball@gmail.com
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