Ladies make a statement
Düsseldorf Senators Make a Statement Against Undefeated Nightmares
On Sunday, May 11, 2025, the long-awaited matchup took place in Neunkirchen between the Düsseldorf Senators women’s softball team and the previously undefeated Neunkirchen Nightmares. Head Coach Frank Mohr’s team used the three-week break following their split against Krefeld not just for recovery, but for intensive preparation against the league leaders.
“Especially in the final week leading up to the game, we worked hard on our game plan — both defensively and offensively,” explained Head Coach Mohr. “We meticulously practiced plays and ran through all kinds of scenarios with our battery.”
Scouting the opponent was also high on the agenda: “We closely analyzed the Nightmares’ recent games and knew we had to be ready for anything — including players you wouldn’t necessarily expect to see in a regional league game.”
With that, the Senators Ladies entered both games not only highly motivated but also exceptionally well prepared.
As a neutral spectator, you might have rubbed your eyes in disbelief at the determination with which the Düsseldorf team faced the undefeated league leaders (8–0). On offense, the Senators lit a firework — playing boldly and aggressively on the bases and constantly putting Neunkirchen under pressure. At the plate, they stayed focused and kept their cool throughout.
“The fact that we played with such discipline is no coincidence — it’s the result of months of hard work by our hitting coach, Patrick Mohr,” Frank Mohr added. “Hardly a day goes by when we’re not thinking about softball — we read, watch, analyze, and learn from the best in the sport. Success is no accident; it’s the product of dedication and effort.”
That approach was also evident in the pitcher’s circle, where five different pitchers took the mound — two of whom made their debut in the second game.
“I want to once again emphasize that the decision to play a doubleheader in the regional league was absolutely the right one. It’s the only way we can consistently develop our young talent,” said Mohr.
As they did in their home opener against the Krefeld Crows, the Senators also used the second game in Neunkirchen to follow their own path — regardless of the score.
“The second game always gives us the chance to try new things — and that’s exactly what we do.”
Karen and Olivia made their debut in the circle. “Karen had already gained some experience in a scrimmage against the reigning national champions from Wesseling, but for Olivia, it was her very first outing. We agreed on three batters — and that’s exactly what she faced.”
Despite holding a solid lead, the coaches deliberately chose not to fall back on veteran players. “Our team’s development comes first. Our young players only grow when we trust them with responsibility. That’s why the narrow 10–9 loss in the second game doesn’t hurt at all — in fact, it doesn’t diminish our outstanding performance that day in the slightest.”
And let’s not forget: the Senators won the first game convincingly, 6–2 — a clear statement and a strong sign of progress.
