Softball: White Sox told: get winning habit

The New Zealand women's softball team must learn to win, says assistant coach John Lowes.

The White Sox returned from Sydney on Monday after finishing fourth in the five-nation Fastpitch Cup tournament.

"Gina [Weber, the captain] certainly helps that. She is a real scrappy fighter when she is out there," Lowes said.

Weber's nose was broken in the last game but she is expected to be playing again soon.

"There are one or two others who are like that and hopefully that is going to rub off," Lowes said. "There is no fun in losing and maybe it's been too long."

That tournament was the first time the Olympic side had competed since they were named in March.

The results highlighted several areas which need working on as the side prepare first for the Canada Cup in July, and then the Olympics.

The biggest concern is the pitching. The side performed well when Weber was on the mound, but struggled without her.

Lowes said: "They all have their programmes."

- NZPA