On Saturday, 21st March, the Great Britain Women’s National Baseball Team hosted a four-hour training and talent identification event in Cardiff. The session brought together members of the senior team, the Women’s National Team (WNT) Development Squad, and a group of aspiring young female baseball players eager to experience the sport at a higher level.
Players from the reigning European champions led a variety of activities throughout the day, sharing both their technical expertise and personal experiences. The event offered a unique opportunity for younger athletes to learn directly from elite-level players, gaining insight into the dedication and mindset required to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Members of the development squad were also given the chance to take on leadership roles by running selected drills. This hands-on involvement forms a key part of their progression pathway, helping to build confidence, communication skills, and a deeper understanding of the game as they work towards earning places in the senior Women’s National Team.
“The WNT development programme has been a great example of a well-planned introduction to the professional mindset of GB Women’s Baseball,” said Steve Cuiffini, father of development squad player Billie Cuiffini. “The whole experience for my daughter has been inspiring. The coaching staff and senior players have made the development team welcome from day one and treated them as equals in the expectations of their training…” he continued. “…having seen my daughter as part of other elite sports development programmes, the GB Baseball WNT is by far the most structured and professionally operated, with the enthusiasm of the coaches and senior players clearly delivering the development opportunities that were set out from the start. In my opinion, this is the benchmark of U18 sports development.”
For the younger participants, the day proved to be both memorable and motivating. Alongside developing their skills, they had the chance to meet their role models, collect autographs, and take photos with members of both the senior and development squads, moments that could prove pivotal in inspiring their continued involvement in the sport.
“My daughter loved meeting, and training with, the GB Women’s National Baseball Team,” said Stephan Lanfermeijer, father of Ariana Lanfermeijer. “What a great opportunity to be part of the day. Thank you!”
While the event focused heavily on player development, it also highlighted a broader ambition, the continued growth of women’s baseball across the UK. By creating accessible pathways and fostering a supportive, high-performance environment, initiatives like this are helping to lay the foundations for a sustainable future for the sport.
“Being part of a day dedicated to developing more female talent in baseball was incredibly rewarding,” said GB WNT player Lhiez Dela Paz. “Seeing so many girls step onto the field, build confidence, and genuinely enjoy the game reminds me why growing the sport matters. If we can inspire even a few of them to keep playing and believe they belong here, then we’re building something really special for the future.”
As women’s baseball continues to gain momentum in Great Britain, events like the Cardiff training day demonstrate the power of visibility, mentorship, and structured development in shaping the next generation of athletes.
If you are interested in supporting the GB Women’s National Team you can donate to the programme through our crowdfunder