Forget nappies, some of the girls were not even born when the Otago under-15 girls' team last won a game at the South Island Championships.
But the team snapped the long losing streak, which dated back to 2002, with a 16-5 win against Marlborough at the tournament in Alexandra last week.
It was Otago's only win and the team still finished last. But nothing can take away that precious victory. Coach Grant Phillips said the girls produced a fine team effort in wet conditions to secure the win.
"The girls were aggressive in the batting box,'' Phillips said, and the runners rounded the bases with purpose and intent.
"The fielding was also of a high standard with some excellent outs taken.
"Annelies McDuff and Danielle Thomson both pitched well and were supported with some power batting from Reeana Shand and Nissy Dysart.''
Darcy Hunt-Murphy, Teea Francis and Kacey Farquhar gave a strong account of themselves during the tournament, and captain Zillah Conder also impressed.
She hit a home run against Southland, while Olivia Guildford was solid at shortstop and Maeve Witchell's utility was an asset.
Otago lost to Marlborough in the playoff for fifth and sixth, but Phillips felt his team had generally competed well.
"It was a steep learning curve for a young team but they played some amazing softball and learned some valuable lessons for next year.''
The team lacked the experience that comes with regularly playing quality opposition.
The Otago under-15 boys finished seventh at the tournament but did secure a rare win against Southland, beating it 12-2.
Otago also beat Mid-Canterbury in round robin play and in the playoff for seventh and eighth.
