A TALENTED teenager from Droylsden is preparing to represent Great Britain on the international stage.
Stan O’Leary has been selected for the Under-16 Men’s Fastpitch Softball squad heading to the European Championship in Czechia.
The 15-year-old will compete in the tournament from June 29 to July 4, with teams playing 10 games over five days against some of Europe’s best young talent.
Stan, who attends St Damian’s RC Science College in Ashton-under-Lyne, has earned his place in the national side after years of dedication to the sport.
His preferred position is short stop, although he has developed his skills across several roles while competing around the country.
Speaking about his selection, Stan said: “I’ve always loved watching my dad play baseball and softball, so when the chance came up, I started training in Manchester. I joined a local slow-pitch team and was encouraged to attend the GB fast-pitch trials.
“Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to play in a variety of positions and develop my pitching through the Youth Fastpitch League (YFL), competing across the country. Being selected to represent Great Britain is a huge honour, and I’m excited to compete in the European Championship.”
Stan’s proud parents, Beth and Kieran, say the achievement is the result of years of commitment and sacrifice.
Proud mum Beth told The Correspondent: “We are so incredibly proud that Stan will be representing Great Britain in their upcoming European Championship tournament in Czechia. It’s such an amazing opportunity and so well deserved.
“It’s a huge moment for him that’s been built on quiet determination, consistency, and a real commitment to the process. He’s missed family events, cut-short time with friends, and requested countless extra practice sessions.
“The hard work starts now and we are so excited for the journey he’s about to go on. He’ll have his mum, dad, big sister, family and friends cheering him on every step of the way.”
The British Softball Federation’s Under-16 and Under-18 squads are currently aiming to raise £60,000 to help cover travel, accommodation and training costs for the tournament.
Natalie Hull, Head Coach of the GB Men’s Under-16s Fastpitch team, commented: “We have been preparing players for this event for a little over two years with our calendar of national sessions and weekend tournaments in Europe.
“I am really impressed with the commitment to training and continued skills development that these players display, and I am looking forward to watching them embrace the experience of the Euros.”
Donations to support the teams can be made through the British Softball Federation’s GoFundMe page here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/GBSoftballMensYouth2026Euros