Carly Moore’s story is one of persistence, passion, and an unwavering love for the game. From growing up at Woodville Baseball Club to making history as the first South Australian to play for the Emeralds, her journey is a testament to dedication and determination.

From the Dugout to the Diamond

With a family deeply involved in the Woodville Baseball Club, Moore was always surrounded by the sport. But her own journey began somewhat by chance. “One year my dad was coaching the U12s, and since I had to be there anyway, I just started playing.” That decision set her on a path that would eventually lead to international representation.

The first ever winners of the Margaret Ralston Shield - The Yellow Team

Coloured Team Days and the Growth of Women’s Baseball

Moore looks back fondly on her time in the coloured teams, where she played alongside friends from softball. “It was a huge mix of experience, which made for a fun vibe. We got to play different positions, meet new people—a lot of whom I’m still close to today.”

She’s also witnessed firsthand how women’s baseball has evolved. The introduction of division splits, she explains, was a turning point. “It encouraged more people to give it a go without the pressure of high-level competition. Div 2 and 3 exploded with women who had always wanted to play but never had the opportunity, while elite players were pushed and challenged on the field.”

Chasing the Dream

Her first national championships with South Australia were tough—struggling for numbers and managing just one win. But it became a source of motivation. Watching powerhouse teams like Victoria and NSW, she was inspired by their skill and dominance. “I wanted to throw like Morgan Doty, block like Tahnee Lovering, and hit like Abbey McLellan. I wanted to be an Emerald.”

Years of relentless effort turned that dream into reality. “It took hard work, heartache, and persistence, but I got there. Sometimes it still feels surreal, but I did it.”

Navigating a Male-Dominated Sport

Playing in men’s divisions had its challenges. Often underestimated due to her size, she turned it into an advantage. “I look tiny next to some of the guys. Sometimes this worked in my favour because they’d try to beat me with a fastball I could hit, not realising I’d probably have swung over a curve.”

She also grappled with doubts about her selections. “There were times I questioned if I was chosen because I was good enough or just because I was the only female. But I focused on what I could control. I still showed up early, got my work in, and stayed late waiting for my opportunities. And they came—sometimes because I was determined to the point of being annoying.”

Despite obstacles, she found incredible support. “For every man who doubted me, there were ten who stood behind me, helped when I needed it, and celebrated wins with me. I’ve trained with, played with, and been coached by amazing men who saw me as a baseballer first. I’m so grateful to all of them—especially you, Dad.”

The Magic of the Game

One of Moore’s most cherished memories is Woodville’s 2022/23 grand final win. “That team was special. Every player wanted to be there and wanted to win. The vibe was impeccable.” She fondly recalls teammates who made the season memorable—Amara Quinn finding her confidence, Tay Mackay bringing energy, Ash George locking down the outfield, Darna Boers-Veen delivering an untouchable curveball, and Sarah McMahon showcasing magic at shortstop.

Though she’s stepped back from playing for now, baseball remains close to her heart. “I’m working toward other goals at the moment, but I still watch Woodville when I can. Don’t worry—I’ll be back.”

A Lasting Legacy

Moore’s impact goes beyond the field. She credits mentors like Julie Wadham and Shelly Neller for shaping her love for the game. “They just want to see every girl and woman play and succeed. I’ve spent long nights at Sturt Baseball Club dreaming up plans for women’s baseball with them.”

The support from Woodville has been unwavering. “I always used to say training was just catching up with my mates. But truly, the whole club has backed me throughout my career.”

She finds inspiration in the next generation of talent, from Hayley Bonython excelling in college softball to Georgia Davis collecting Division 1 MVP medals at just 18. “All the women suiting up for SA and the Giants—it’s just awesome to see.”

Her connections extend to the men’s game too. “The boys from HP pushed me in training and gave me the nickname ‘The Fossil’—a loving nod to my ‘old age.’” But her favorite connections? The young players she’s coached. “Seeing kids I trained go on to play Div 1, win state gold, and soon, represent Australia—that’s the best part.”

Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation

If there’s one lesson Moore hopes young female ballplayers take away, it’s this: “Enjoy the failures—you can’t succeed without them.”