Fun. Friendship. Team Spirit.

The second edition of the Senators & Friends Baseball5 Tournament brought together players, friends, and fans for a day filled with energy, laughter, and community. Once again, it became clear that Baseball5 is much more than just a game; it is an expression of togetherness and the joy of being part of a community.

Teams made up of Senators players, family members, and new faces brought excitement to the gym from the very first minute. Quick reactions, creative plays, and countless smiles made every game a highlight. While fun was at the forefront, every run was played for with passion and fought for with fairness.

In an exciting final, the ALLSTARS narrowly defeated the BENGELS 8–7 after extra innings. It was a true nail-biter that kept everyone on the edge of their seats until the final play and filled the hall with emotion.

In the end, there were only winners, because the real success lay in the special atmosphere that makes this tournament so unique. The entire day was marked by fairness, joy, and a strong sense of community.

Just as it is tradition with Senators & Friends.

One game, four bases, endless smiles. See you at the 3rd edition!

“More than just games – a journey that changed us.”

There are seasons in which wins are counted. And there are seasons in which you grow – as a team, as a person, as a community.

2025 was the latter.

A journey full of emotion, hard work, laughter, doubt, and small miracles between the bases.

When we began our preseason together in the spring, there was this feeling:
We wanted to build something. Not just a team, but trust.
Every practice was more than technique and progress – it was connection.

Connection with ourselves, with others, with the game that unites us.

Over the course of the season, we learned that success isn’t only found on the scoreboard.
It shows itself in the moments when someone smiles after a strikeout and keeps going.
When someone who once hesitated to raise their voice suddenly calls the out that ends the inning.
When the bench erupts in cheers as if it were the final of the German Championship.

We won games no one expected us to win, and we lost games that hurt.
But there was strength in both. Because every game brought us closer together.

Whether in Düsseldorf, Neunkirchen, or under the summer heat in Aachen – we didn’t just play softball.
We lived softball together.

A true highlight of the season was our “Pink Against Racism” event.

Pink jerseys, smiling faces, a field full of energy.

A day that showed that softball is more than a sport – it’s a language of peace, respect, and unity.

That was bigger than a game.

But even beyond the big moments, there were countless small stories.

Players celebrating their first hits. Pitchers showing nerves of steel.

Moments when we carried one another – on days when life felt heavier than the ball itself.

And again and again, that quiet feeling: We’ve got this. Together.

What remains is more than a record.

It’s the awareness that every person matters.
That growth takes time.
That joy is contagious.
And that a team grows when it shows up for one another.

When you look out onto the field at the end of the season, after the final game, the sun slowly setting behind the backstop, and you hear the voices, the laughter, the fatigue – you know:

This was real.
This was our year.

Thank you to everyone who made this season possible:

Players, coaches, parents, friends, and supporters.

You turned this season into more than just a series of games.
You made it a story full of heart.

The season for the second men’s team has been over for six weeks now, and looking back, it was a great one. With a view to their second-place finish, the team can be very proud.
“I’m very excited about the team’s development: we’ve significantly improved offensively, scoring 137 runs in 10 games. Throughout the season, we had great team spirit and a friendly atmosphere – that’s what matters most to me in sports. My sincere thanks go to Andi for the excellent coaching,” Head Coach Holger summarized.

The second team is open to players of all ages who enjoy playing baseball. “I’m especially proud that our U18 player Till is establishing himself more and more in the first team, and that our U18 player Max had his first appearances with the first team,” Holger added.

In 2026, the second team will once again compete in the Bezirksliga, integrating new players along the way.

Passion instead of runs

We had set ourselves big goals for the last two games in Neunkirchen – and we knew how demanding they would be. With only ten players, not all of them fully fit, we faced a young, strong, and highly motivated team.

All the more impressive was the fight our girls put up, which has left me deeply moved and proud: If anyone wants to understand the meaning of team sport, they shouldn’t ask the internet — they should simply come to one of our games. This team, that holds together so strongly and grows beyond itself especially when trailing, is incomparable. As much as the defeats hurt — what this group showed is priceless.

Perhaps it is also a sign of the respect we have now earned that opponents do not hesitate to bring in Bundesliga experience when they face us. For us, that is not a disappointment, but rather an honor: we are taken seriously.

With the new game format, we played around twelve more innings than in the previous season — a gain for our development, but also a personal challenge for each individual. Everyone has learned to push beyond their limits, endure setbacks, and still function as a team. With a record of 13 wins to 11 losses, we now head into the offseason. Considering everything we experimented with during the season, that is more than remarkable.

But the record and the standings only tell half the story: This year we played the best softball we’ve ever played. Games at the highest level, showing how much heart, passion, and quality are in this team. Every single player has developed — in the field, at bat, or in her role on the team. Many took on responsibilities they never would have imagined at the start of the season, laying the foundation for us to be broader and stronger as a squad.

Nine wins in a row also showed what this team is capable of when focused and united. Softball in Düsseldorf now has a clear perspective. We are especially proud of our six players under the age of 15, whom we can now carefully develop step by step. For us, this means responsibility not only in sport but also as people: to be role models, to give support, and to create spaces where young players can grow.

We look ahead with great anticipation to the winter season and the challenges to come — with a team that has my heart. Special thanks go to the entire Senators Ladies team, who worked tirelessly both on and off the field. Without your dedication, your support, and your belief in this team, much would not have been possible.

And of course, we warmly congratulate Neunkirchen on winning the Landesliga championship — a strong opponent and a well-deserved titleholder.

Different Roots. One Field.

 

Music and Dance at the Heart of the Festival

A colorful musical program created a lively atmosphere throughout the day. DJ Andreas kept the crowd moving, while 23rd Staircase and Mariano Gardella filled the stage with vibrant live music. The dance performances were another true highlight: the ensemble Herencia Latina transported guests into the world of Latin American rhythms with passionate choreography, while Zumbini with BLOOMVALLEY thrilled the audience with an energetic show. Music and dance turned the festival into a celebration for all the senses and made cultural diversity shine even more vividly.

Thanks to All Supporters

Under the patronage of TSG Benrath, the festival was organized in collaboration with Jenna Davis from Life in Düsseldorf, VierNull Media, and the Düsseldorf Senators. Above all, the many children brought smiles to the faces of the organizers, who can look back proudly at what was achieved. A special thanks goes to the main sponsor, Stadtsparkasse Düsseldorf, whose support was vital in making this day possible. Equally important were the numerous volunteers behind the scenes, who ensured a smooth event with great dedication and commitment.

A Strong Signal for Community

At the end of the day, the festival left behind the memory of something much more than just a sporting event. It was living proof of how diversity brings people together, how integration can succeed, and how community is experienced. Where walls often rise elsewhere, here bridges were built – with sport, music, food, and above all, with openness and warmth.

The International Festival in Benrath thus set a powerful signal of solidarity, confidence, and joy – one that will surely remain in the memories of all participants for a long time to come.

Two Defeats and Many Small Victories

“Today we were basically running on reserve and somehow dragged ourselves across the finish line. The girls still gave everything, as always, and fought against the losses until the very end. You could feel very clearly that the strength was fading – not only among the players, but throughout the entire staff as well. It’s been an incredibly exhausting season so far, one in which we’ve demanded everything from the team, physically and mentally. On top of that, the sheer number of games has taken its toll. But one thing I want to emphasize clearly: I’m very grateful to the federation that the game days are played as doubleheaders. That’s the only way we can continue to develop our sport in Germany, make it more visible, and give our talents valuable playing time to carefully build them up step by step.

Looking back on today, I see two defeats – but above all, I feel pride. Because even though we lost both games, every single player showed today how much she burns for this team. Each one had to push herself to the limit, each one had to leave her comfort zone. And that is what defines us.

The first game was extremely tough. We had to completely reshuffle positions, and it was clear from the start that not everything would run smoothly. We quickly fell behind, and it looked as if we wouldn’t be able to turn the game around. But that’s exactly when the character of a team shows. Instead of giving up, the team kept fighting. After being down 3–8, we made it really exciting again. Losing 8–13 in the end is bitter – but it also shows that we gave everything until the last pitch. Nobody let their heads drop. On the contrary: you can feel the joy with which softball is being played here, no matter what the scoreboard says at the end.

After a short break of just thirty minutes, there was hardly any time to adjust for the second game. We had actually prepared scenarios, but then an injury threw all our plans overboard. That challenged us even more, because there weren’t many options left in the field. Still, we communicated the goals clearly. For me, there was no question: we would go into the game with Nina and Olivia as pitchers.

About Nina, I want to say this: today she had some trouble finding her landing zone and struggled to fully execute her motion.

That happens – especially when the strain has been so high for weeks on end. We had to take her out already in the first inning, but I’m still satisfied with her performance. Because every single pitch helps us. Every pitch makes us stronger, teaches us how to deal with nerves, and ultimately gives us confidence. That’s development, and I’ll gladly take that with us.

And then there’s our youngest player, and we couldn’t be prouder of her. Today Olivia showed impressively what we can look forward to in the future. With three hard-hit balls at the plate, she not only proved her increasingly consistent offensive qualities. Since we had traveled without a shortstop, Olivia spontaneously took over that role in defense – and did it flawlessly. For me, that was a real highlight. And when we needed her in the circle as well, she pitched three really strong innings.

What moved me the most was that in the postgame talk she emphasized again how important the entire team is to her. She thanked everyone for their constant encouragement and motivating words. That shows her character, and it also shows that such success wouldn’t even be possible without every single player.

At the end of the day, the record shows two defeats. But if you look closer, there are also many small victories: the fighting spirit, the joy of the game, the growth of young players, the support for one another. These are all things we can be proud of.

Of course, we would have loved to win the games. But we’re not too disappointed. We knew that playing against Jülich wouldn’t be easy. Jülich earned these victories – that has to be acknowledged without envy. For us, it’s now about regenerating, gathering strength, and looking ahead. This team has heart, it has courage, and it has the ability to keep getting back up. And that’s exactly why I am convinced that we will come out of this season even stronger than we went into it.

On the final game day against Neunkirchen, we will throw in everything we’ve got once more and reward ourselves with two selfless, wholehearted games for what has already been an outstanding season.”

SPLIT AGAINST THE LEAGUE LEADERS

Cold and rainy weather marked the beginning of the final home game day of the season at Südallee in Benrath. The guests were the Krefeld Crows, league leaders and known for their error-free play and powerful offensive actions. An opponent the coaches of the Düsseldorf Senators held in high regard.

“For us, it was mainly about continuing the impressive season so far,” explained Head Coach Frank Mohr before the game. “We have experimented a lot, tested new players and positions. Of course, it’s tempting to reach for more when you see how well we’re playing. But our focus is on the development of our young players. They are our future, and we want to approach this development with care.”

In the first game, Lina Schwippert took on the responsibility in the pitcher’s circle – and did so impressively. With 11 strikeouts, she kept the Crows’ offense in check. The Senators’ offense was also in great form, collecting a total of 14 hits. In the end, it was a well-deserved 8–3 victory for the hosts.

“It was more exciting than the score might suggest,” the coaches said after the game. “We had to make a number of adjustments, many players were not fully fit. Having Lina in the circle for the first game was a huge help.”

After a short break, it was time for the second game of the doubleheader – and with it, the chance to take sole possession of first place in the standings. But in the first three innings, the Senators struggled both offensively and defensively. The Crows, unfazed by their opening defeat, quickly built a clear 10–1 lead.

“I have to admit that we were shaken up quite a bit and too often just watched the balls go by,” said Head Coach Mohr. Still, the Senators fought back in the final two innings, repeatedly putting runners in scoring position and even loading the bases. But too often, the decisive hit was missing. Defensively as well, small mistakes crept in: throws were just a tick too long or too short, and even balls that seemed safely caught slipped out of the glove and fell to the ground.

So in the end, it remained a 6–15 defeat against the strong-performing visitors.

At the end of the day, the split against the league leaders was another sign of how far the Senators have come this season. Between a spirit of new beginnings, the development of young players, and the ambition to keep up with the very best, the final home game day was a fitting snapshot of this special season.

“We still have four games left, and it’s already clear that for the first time, we’ll finish the season with a positive record. I’m especially happy about that for the girls.”

Next Saturday already brings the next matchup against the Jülich Duchess. The impressive streak of four wins in four games should give the team confidence, but the coaches warn against drawing premature conclusions:

“All the games against Jülich have been exciting and high-class. Nothing is decided yet. We’re really looking forward to this final duel of the season – by Saturday night, we’ll know more.”

Shop. Support. Stand for Something.

Düsseldorf Senators launch online shop in cooperation with Druckhaus Boeken

The Düsseldorf Senators are taking a strong step towards the future: Together with Druckhaus Boeken, we have launched the official Senators online shop! From now on, fans, players, and supporters can easily order individually customizable products related to our softball and baseball team online.

A jersey with a message: Pink for diversity and unity

A special highlight in the collection is our new pink jersey – more than just a stylish piece of sportswear. It is a powerful symbol against racism and exclusion.

With this jersey, we send a visible message for equality, peace, and community – on the field, on the sidelines, and everywhere people come together.

We believe: sport unites. And it has the power to convey social values. Our pink jersey stands for a world in which respect, tolerance, and togetherness are not the exception but the rule.

Strengthening volunteer work – securing the future

What many don’t know: Behind the success of our teams and the continuous growth of softball and baseball in Düsseldorf is a strong volunteer team.

With every purchase from our new online shop, you’re not only supporting our team but also our booster club, which actively works to promote youth development, fair training conditions, and an open, inclusive sports program for all generations.

Your contribution helps us secure and further develop softball and baseball in Düsseldorf for the long term – beyond performance pressure, with a clear focus on community, activity, and the joy of the game.

Here’s the link to the shop: Düsseldorf Senators Online Shop

Together. Strong. Colorful.

Different Roots. One Field.

There’s no pressure, no tryouts, no expectations,  just a chance to try something new, or simply to watch and smile.

Because we all come from different places. We speak different languages. We carry different stories. But on a field, whether grassy or gravel, roaring with cheers or full of quiet joy, we meet as equals. This is more than sport. It’s a vision of what’s possible when we say: you’re welcome here, exactly as you are.

You don’t need to bring anything but yourself. But if you’d like to add to the day, bring a friend. Bring your grandparents. Bring your favorite snack. Bring a memory. Bring a smile. Come see what happens when different roots come together on one field.

Let’s make it a day to remember. A day to move. To laugh. To listen. To shine, like Shams, the sun that belongs to all of us.

We can’t wait to welcome you.

Nidia & Jenna

What No One Can Take From Us

On July 19, 2025, the Düsseldorf Senators faced off against the Aachen Greyhounds for the final time this season. The outlook for games 5 and 6 – against a feisty but clearly outmatched opponent – could hardly have been more promising: second place in the standings versus the bottom-ranked team, paired with an impressive eight-game winning streak. What could possibly go wrong?

“I love statistics,” head coach Frank Mohr says with a smile.
“In American sports, there’s a stat for everything. You could probably even find out that Nina bats .576 when Peter Fox plays between the top and bottom of the third inning, she’s chewing cinnamon gum, and at least one teammate is searching for sunscreen.”

This tongue-in-cheek anecdote points to a frequently overlooked factor: day-to-day form. In a league with far fewer games than in the U.S., even minor fluctuations can have a major impact. Still, in Düsseldorf, every pitch, hit, and play is analyzed.

“That often leads to ‘aha’ moments at the end of the season, because our own perception is more misleading than we think.”

Improvising in the Summer Heat

Both teams entered the doubleheader severely understaffed. For the Düsseldorf ladies, things looked even grimmer just a week and a half earlier – only six players were available, raising the threat of a cancellation.

“Many of our girls are on vacation, unavailable due to work, or injured. Sixteen absences in total! The fact that we’re still able to field a team speaks volumes about the development of softball in Düsseldorf. A year ago, we would’ve had to cancel games like this.”

Despite the deeper roster, six of the team’s top hitters were missing – a fact that became especially noticeable in Game 2.

Better Not Wake Up

Game 1 ended in a surprisingly clear 8–2 win for the Senators, an impressive feat considering the personnel situation.

“It feels a bit like a dream,” said pitcher Katja after the game.
“This season feels so unreal sometimes – I’m almost waiting to wake up.”

Spectators witnessed a high-level game that ended after 60 minutes with a well-deserved win for the Senators’ ladies. The defense once again shone: every ground ball was smoothly turned into an out, and the infield played as if in perfect sync.

Fading Strength and Unfamiliar Roles

With only two players in their usual positions, Game 2 became a battle of endurance. Temperatures climbed over 32°C (90°F), and two players had to leave after the first game – improvisation became the name of the game.

The unusual lineup and growing fatigue took their toll: Aachen pushed hard and deservedly took the win, 8–4.

“The girls gave it their all – that’s something you can never fault them for. Losing is part of the game and part of the learning process.”

Four Weeks Off – And a Proud Look Back

After an outstanding season so far, the team now heads into a well-earned four-week break.

“We’re super proud and happy with our girls,” the coaching staff agrees.
“A fantastic season that no one saw coming. Everything from here on out is a bonus – and we’re hungry for more.”