The Queensland Heat have arrived in Adelaide ahead of the 2022 Gilley's Shield starting Saturday 30th April.  

Erin West and Sandra Holden are co-captaining the Heat this year, and they're looking forward to playing national level competition again after a two year break. Sandra said "We can't wait for nationals to start on Saturday. Our anticipation's been heightened by the length of time since our last opportunity to compete for the Gilley's shield. We've done the work and we're ready to lay it on the line to see who will come out on top at the end of the four days. We have every confidence in each other and our ability to get the job done."

Coach Kevin Jenkins echoed their sentiments about the excitement levels after so much time between nationals. "Feels like forever but the excitement's been building watching the other National Championships the last few weeks. We can't wait to get back on a plane again and represent at the Gilley's Shield again.  We've been training well and looking forward to get out there on Saturday."

This year’s tournament brings a level of excitement not seen at a Gilley’s Shield in several years. Many Olympians and Aussie Spirit players from recent years are retired or have commitments overseas, throwing open the competition and setting the stage for a fierce tournament.

Players will also be vying for selection in a new-look Aussie Spirit squad, with the Canada Cup, World Games, and World Cup qualifiers headlining a busy 2022 international schedule.  Livestreaming will be available on the Softball Australia Facebook page and follow our Queensland Heat Softball Team page for more updates.