Thundercats Runner-up at Dublin Pink Blitz Tournament

Thundercats team with runner-up trophy

Jersey’s travelling softball squad, the Thundercats, made a spirited appearance in the Irish capital over the weekend as they took part in the Pink Blitz charity tournament, hosted by local side the Suspects. Battling not only stiff competition but also the unpredictable Irish weather, the Thundercats impressed throughout a condensed one-day tournament after rain forced the cancellation of Saturday’s fixtures.

Opening the day with a convincing win in their first round-robin game, the Thundercats quickly made their mark on the tournament. Game two proved a tighter affair, but with the clock ticking down, up stepped Andy Romeril. With the game hanging in the balance, Romeril launched a game-winning home run in the final inning to seal the victory — an effort that earned him team MVP honours for the weekend.

Undefeated heading into the Cup final, the Thundercats faced their sternest test yet against fellow unbeaten side, the Dodder Dynamoes. In what proved to be a high-level clash between two strong outfits, the Thundercats took a few innings to find their rhythm at the plate. A burst of offensive momentum in the fourth inning hinted at a comeback, but the Dynamoes' consistency at bat ultimately proved too much. Despite a valiant defensive effort, Jersey’s side were edged out in a competitive finale.

Beyond the diamond, the spirit of the weekend was underlined by a successful fundraising effort. Through raffles, auctions, and merchandise sales, the tournament raised an impressive €4,301 in support of Irish Cancer Research and Children’s Health Ireland — a cause that brought the wider softball community together in support and solidarity.

Despite falling just short of taking the top prize, the Thundercats left Dublin with heads held high, showcasing their quality on the field and their commitment to community off it.

"I'm incredibly proud of how the team performed this weekend," said Thundercats Captain Robin Tadier. "We showed real grit and teamwork in tough conditions, especially coming out strong after the rain delay. That final was a hard-fought battle, and while we didn’t come away with the win, we played with heart and left everything on the field. It was a great experience for a great cause."