Softball Queensland (SQ) is inviting expressions of interest from junior female players aged 14-19 for its 2026 tour to Kochi City, Japan.

 In 2019, SQ and the Kochi Softball Association established a Memorandum of Understanding to promote player exchanges between Queensland and Kochi, leading to four successful tours to Japan and four exchanges to Australia. These initiatives, aligned with SQ's Strategic Plan, enhance players' and officials' exposure to international competition, fostering their growth and development while also providing them with valuable cultural experiences through immersion in Japan's local customs and traditions.

 SQ is committed to continually enhancing the experience of our tours. For the 2026 tour, the team will compete in up to 10 matches against strong local opposition while in Kochi. Following this exciting series of games, the players will travel to Tokyo, a vibrant city alive with neon lights and a shopping paradise for softball enthusiasts. This year’s tour sees the addition of an extra night in Tokyo, staying at the Hotel Gracery in Shinjinku. During this 3-night stay, the team will also enjoy a full day at Disneyland and attend a professional baseball game.

The proposed tour dates are from August 17th to August 27th, 2026.

SQ estimates the cost of the 11-day tour to be approximately $5,400. This includes airfares, accommodation, all meals, ground travel, travel insurance, and tickets to Disneyland and Baseball. Players will be responsible for their own spending money.

SQ recognizes that the proposed August tour dates may impact players involved in winter competitions and their club finals, as the schedule is set by the Kochi Softball Association based on school holiday availability.

Pathways Coordinator Fabian Barlow will lead the tour in a Head Coach/Mentor role.  Interested players should register their expression of interest via the form below by 30 Janaury 2026. Any questions please contact admin@softballqld.asn.au. 

 The final team will be announced in early February, and players must pay a $750 non-refundable deposit within 7 days to secure their tour spot and adhere to a payment plan.

Expression of Interest Form here