News
NATHAN GILL – HALL OF FAME
Published Thu 12 Jun 2025
It is with great pride that Nathan Gill is inducted into the Softball Victoria Hall of Fame. Nathan has had an exceptional career as both a player and coach, and his unwavering commitment to the sport of softball in Victoria makes him a highly deserving candidate for this prestigious honour.
Nathan’s journey in softball began at the Keilor Park and Districts Softball Association, where his natural talent and passion for the game quickly became apparent. His early promise was realized when he represented Victoria in the U16 Boys division at the Arthur Allsopp Shield in 1991. From there, he progressed to represent Victoria in the U19 Men’s division at the Nox Bailey Shield from 1991 to 1994, consistently demonstrating growth, skill, and leadership as a developing athlete.
Nathan’s achievements as a player culminated in an impressive tenure with the Victorian Open Men’s team, representing the state in the John Reid Shield during multiple campaigns: from 1996 to 1998, again in 2000, from 2005 to 2008, and once more in 2014. Among the many highlights of his playing career, one moment stands out above all—his walk-off grand slam that clinched victory for Victoria in the 1999 John Reid Shield final at Redlands against New South Wales. This iconic moment not only sealed a championship win but also exemplified Nathan’s ability to rise to the occasion and deliver under immense pressure.
Following his playing career, Nathan transitioned into coaching and leadership roles, continuing to influence the sport at both junior and senior levels. He served as Assistant Coach for the Victoria U16 Boys team in 2020 and 2022, playing a key role in nurturing and developing young talent. At the senior level, he brought his experience and knowledge to the Victorian Open Men’s team as Assistant Coach from 2013 to 2014 and again from 2015 to 2016, contributing to the team’s ongoing success.
Nathan’s leadership extended beyond the field. From 2017 to 2019, he served as Chair of the State Team Committee, helping to shape and guide the strategic direction of Victoria’s representative softball programs. Since 2013, he has also been an integral member of the Organizing Committee for the Men’s State League, one of the sport’s premier competitions in Victoria. His behind-the-scenes contributions have been critical in ensuring the continued strength and success of the league.
Nathan Gill’s legacy in Victorian softball is defined not only by his on-field achievements but also by his lasting impact as a mentor, coach, and leader. His memorable walk-off home run in 1999 remains a symbol of his competitive spirit and clutch performance, while his years of service and dedication continue to influence the sport’s future.
For his outstanding contributions across all facets of the game, Nathan Gill is a fitting and worthy nominee for the Softball Victoria Hall of Fame.
Statement of Achievement
- Started at Keilor Park and Districts Softball Association.
- 1991 - Represented Victoria U16 Boys – Arthur Allsopp Shield
- 1991 to 1994 – Represented Victoria U19 Men – Nox Bailey Shield
- 1996 to 1998 – Represented Victoria Open Men – John Reid Shield
- 2000 - Represented Victoria Open Men – John Reid Shield
- 2005 to 2008 - Represented Victoria Open Men – John Reid Shield
- 2014 - Represented Victoria Open Men – John Reid Shield
- Hit a walk off grand slam to win the 1999 John Reid at Redlands against New South Wales
- 2020 - Assistant Coach U16 Boys
- 2022 - Assistant Coach U16 Boys
- 2013 to 2016 – Assistant Coach Victorian Open Men