More than 200 fans enjoyed some international fastball in Wadena Wednesday evening with the New Zealand Just Softball International Softball Academy visiting.
The Junior Royals gave the New Zealand visitors a battle with a two-run game through four innings but the Kiwi’s bats took them over the top with a 8-2 win.
In game two the Rosebud Royals started Nathen Pomedli, who is also a U19-aged player. The Royals got a 2-0 lead after 1 1/2 innings with New Zealand answering back in the bottom of two with a single run.
The pitchers then shut the door including a save by Royals Ace James Holowaty.
The local fans raved about the exciting ball in featured in both games. New Zealand was once again impressed with the small town hospitality with the Wadena Bakery donating 24 of their infamous Boston Creams for the visitors, and locals stepping up with meals for the team and billeting their houses out to the players.
The New Zealand ISA and Wadena are in talks for a return tour in 2020 for the Rosebud Royals 50th Anniversary year.
New Zealand will enjoy home cooked breakfasts at their billets followed by some floor hockey against the Juniors Royals, today, before hopping on the bus to Prince Albert for games Thursday.
