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.
