The Rosebud Jr Royals of Wadena proved that heart, grit, and determination can take you a long way — even against the best in the country. Competing at the 2025 U15 National Softball Championship in Winkler and Morden, Manitoba, the Royals turned heads with their fearless play, strong performances, and small-town toughness.
Despite being drawn into a tough preliminary round, the Royals finished 3-3 to place fourth and earn a spot in the playoff round. Their tournament began with an electrifying matchup against the country’s top-ranked team, ON1 from Tavistock, Ontario. In what became one of the most talked-about games of the week, the Royals held the powerhouse to a 1-1 tie through five innings. Tavistock eventually pulled out a 3-1 win after bringing in Canada’s top U15 pitcher to close the game.
Even Softball Canada representatives were reportedly "shocked and impressed" by the Royals’ performance, with many calling it the surprise of the tournament.
From there, the boys fought through a long, hot week of games, battling elite teams from Ontario, Quebec, and Newfoundland — many of which featured rosters handpicked from their entire provinces. The Royals clinched a playoff spot with a dramatic extra-inning win in their final round-robin game, avoiding a tiebreaker and cementing their place among the country’s top five teams.
In the playoff quarterfinal, the Royals took on SK2 Valley Blue Jays from Laird, SK. Facing the tournament’s "Top Pitcher" award winner, Kaleb Romanchuk, the Royals refused to go quietly, mounting a 4-run rally but ultimately falling 7-4. Valley would go on to lose in the next round and finish fourth, while the Royals earned a well-deserved fifth-place national finish.
Standouts & All-Stars
Two Royals players were recognized for outstanding individual performances during the preliminary round and were named to the National Championship All-Star Team:
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Ben Tokarchuk (Utility – Infield/Catcher):
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Batting Average: .462
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On-Base %: .556
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Home Runs: 1
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RBIs: 9
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Strikeouts: 0
Ben was a consistent offensive force and a defensive rock wherever he was placed on the field.
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Jayce Lockie (Infielder):
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Batting Average: .375
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On-Base %: .545
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Home Runs: 2
Lockie’s power at the plate gave the Royals a much-needed boost in key moments throughout the tournament.
This year's championship marked the first-ever joint event hosting both the U15 Men's and Women's National Championships, and the cities of Winkler and Morden delivered an unforgettable experience. From high-level competition to unmatched hospitality, the event was a tremendous success — and the Royals were proud to be part of it.
The coaching staff and players returned home with their heads high, proud of what they achieved and how they represented Saskatchewan. Competing against large-center Ontario teams and provincial all-star squads, the Royals showed they belong on Canada’s biggest stage.
As the team looks ahead, the foundation has been laid for continued success. But for now, the Rosebud Jr Royals can celebrate a national performance that will be remembered for years to come.