Hoshino. Shiori....Boss

Across Townsville Baseball Association, there is one unwritten rule - don't hit it to Shiori.

This rule is transcending the local comp though, as baseballers around Australia are not only learning the name Hoshino but living the reality of having their well-placed hits consumed by the incredible range of this athlete. It's easy to see where she gets the name - Boss.

One pitch, one outstanding diving play to retire NSW following a rain delay in the 2024 Australian Womens Baseball Championships preliminary final.

Watching her clockwork technique is captivating. But behind the highlight reels are hours upon hours of repetition and training, reinforcing the smallest of movements and foundations until they are muscle memory. Glovework, footwork, throwing to a target - each component critical to the final result. With the basics in check, her drive, determination and instinct take over the rest pulling off plays she claims are purely just routine.

On 9 May 2024, she makes her second appearance for the Women's Australian Baseball League Showcase - featuring as an infielder for the Brisbane Bandits.

Excerpt from Brisbane Bandits 2024 WOMEN'S SHOWCASE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Shiori Hoshino’s ascent to becoming one of Australia’s premier women’s baseball players is a testament to her dedication and passion for the sport. Her journey commenced at the age of 12, captivated by her brother’s enthusiasm for baseball, which ignited her own fervor. Following a stint at boarding school, Shiori made a pivotal decision to relocate to Australia, settling in the charming town of Townsville, North Queensland. There, she immersed herself in mixed club ball, laying the groundwork for her burgeoning career on the diamond.

Despite the geographical shift to Victoria to pursue a career in occupational therapy, Shiori’s commitment to baseball never wavered. Since 2019, she has proudly represented Queensland in the Nationals, showcasing her skills and determination on the field. Alongside her personal growth, Shiori acknowledges the invaluable support and guidance she has received from teammates, coaches, and mentors, whose encouragement has been instrumental in her development as a player.

Among the myriad of memorable moments in Shiori’s career, one stands out vividly—an electrifying match against NSW in the Nationals, where her team staged a remarkable comeback from a six-run deficit in the top of the seventh inning, epitomizing the resilience and camaraderie that define the essence of the game.

In her pursuit of excellence, Shiori draws inspiration from esteemed players like Genda Sosuke of the Saitama Seibu Lions, admiring his unwavering reliability on the field and relentless pursuit of perfection. As she continues to refine her skills, Shiori aims to emulate his example, ensuring that her teammates can rely on her unwavering support and defensive prowess.

Having previously donned the jersey of the Brisbane Bandits in 2022, Shiori eagerly anticipates the forthcoming Australian Women’s Showcase, relishing the opportunity to compete alongside and against the nation’s finest players once more. For aspiring female athletes, she underscores the significance of self-reflection, disciplined training, and fostering a strong team ethos.

Reflecting on her past experiences with the Bandits, Shiori fondly reminisces about the camaraderie shared among players and coaches, as well as the competitive fire that fuelled their performances on the field. With anticipation and excitement, Shiori eagerly awaits the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead with the Bandits and the Women’s Showcase, poised to leave an indelible mark on the baseball landscape.

At Townsville Taipans, we are honoured to have played with Shiori - a life member of our club and vital part in paving the way for women's baseball in Townsville. We are excited to watch and cheer her and the team on.