AYC 2024 U16 WRAP-UP

AYC 2024 U16 WRAP-UP

Following the tales of our U18 players at the Australian Youth Championships (AYC), we now highlight our U16 team. With pride, we share the stories of these young athletes who returned with silver medals. Join us as we explore Paddy McLoughlin and Cooper Teichmann’s experiences on the field, providing insight into competition and camaraderie at the national level.

Q&A WITH PADDY MCLOUGHLIN

What position/s did you play during AYC?

I played outfield and pitcher.

Your proudest moment individually or as a team?

I was really proud when my coach put me as starting pitcher against NSW, and I felt like I pitched well for the team.  Our proudest moment as a team was when we came back from being 5 runs behind against VIC and we walked it off.  Every person in the team played so hard to get the win.

What did you do during the rain delays, did you bond as a team, or did you take the time for some personal reflection/training?

We bonded as a team the whole time at AYC, we all got on really well together.  During the rain delays we went to the games room in the hotel and it was also really good hanging out with players from other states.  On the last day when finals were rained off the coaches took time with each of us to give feedback on the tournament.

How is playing in a national tournament, different from playing in the Qld state titles?

Nationals are more intense and it’s where you want to play your best baseball.  I was really proud to represent my State at Nationals and it’s good that you have scouts watching, it’s a big deal.  As I was a second year, it was also good being one of the leaders with the other second year players. 

How did you feel when you found out that you were awarded silver?

I wasn’t expecting us to get silver, we were supposed to play in the bronze medal game so it was a surprise when we got silver. We were really happy, but we all would have liked to play finals and win the medal, but it shows you never know what is going to happen in tournament baseball, and how important our first round results were when we battled every game.

From your AYC experience, what do you think you could work on, as an individual or as a team?

I am always working hard to improve my game and it is important to learn from every game.  As a team we bonded well and worked well together, it was great how everyone supported each other and encouraged each other, I think we can work on reducing errors in the field, our bats were pretty aggressive so we need to keep that up.

Favourite FUN moment from the whole experience (it doesn’t have to be baseball related).

The baseball was always fun and we had a great time playing, but it was also really fun playing in the games room with the other teams.  When we went out for dinner as a team we had a good laugh with the coaches too.

Q&A WITH COOPER TEICHMANN

What position/s did you play during AYC?

Catcher for majority of the tournament and played one game at 3B.  I also got to the opportunity to pitch.

Your proudest moment individually or as a team?

Individually was the defensive plays I made against Victoria, throwing out multiple runners in the second round of competition.  As a team it was definitely how well we gelled as a team and coming home with a silver medal.

What did you do during the rain delays, did you bond as a team, or did you take the time for some personal reflection/training?

We bonded as a team, the hotel had a common area/gaming room where we could hang out as a team and have some fun.  There was some good table tennis competition going on amongst the team.

How is playing in a national tournament, different from playing in the Qld state titles?

The competition was to a higher standard, there were strong teams with a lot of good players from around the country.  There was a lot of pride on the line, representing your state and playing for a national title.  It was a really good overall experience.

How did you feel when you found out that you were awarded silver?

I was happy that we ended up with silver, but due to the rain it impacted the second round.  I would have preferred to play all of the games in the second round and then let the final results determine the medal winners, but I’m really proud we won the silver medal.

From your AYC experience, what do you think you could work on, as an individual or as a team?

Individually I would have liked to get some more hits, but I had good preparation going into the tournament and will continue to work on my hitting from both sides of the plate.  As a team I would say to continue to work on how to win the close games and handle pressure situations better.

Favourite FUN moment from the whole experience (it doesn’t have to be baseball related).

Most fun moment was our victory over Victoria in the first round.  The way we came from behind to win was really fun.  It was a close game with a few lead changes and to win that game meant a lot to the team.

AYC 2024 U18 Wrap-up

AYC 2024 U18 Wrap-up

As the dust settles on the exhilarating Australian Youth Championships (AYC) held this past January, we take a moment to delve into the personal journeys and experiences of two remarkable players, Liam Kiddle and Lachlan Jones. From nail-biting games to rain-soaked delays, their insights offer a captivating glimpse into the highs and challenges of competing at a national level.

Q&A WITH Liam kiddle

What position/s did you play during AYC?

I played rightfield.  

Your proudest moment individually or as a team?

I was proud of the group when we came back against a big lead against Western Australia and put together a good effort to tie the game after being down 4 runs in the last inning.

What did you do during the rain delays, did you bond as a team, or did you take the time for some personal reflection/training?

There was plenty of time for both.  I enjoyed getting to know some of the guys that I had played against but hadn’t previously spent much time with.  I also used the time for preparation, it’s a good opportunity to get into a good headspace and get locked in. I used these times to relax and visualise.

How is playing in a national tournament, different from playing in the Qld state titles?

It’s very different as you’re playing at a much higher level.  The competition is harder, the stakes are higher and the games tend to be a lot tighter. It’s so much fun.

From your AYC experience, what do you think you could work on, as an individual or as a team?

Collectively the team didn’t execute in big moments. There were some snippets of it however we struggled to come through in those big moments with runners on base. Personally there’s always a lot to work on.  Defensively I have spent more time as a corner infielder, so there is a lot I’m still working on to become the best outfielder I can be.

Favourite FUN moment from the whole experience (it doesn’t have to be baseball related).

A big moment for me which was a lot of fun was the triple I hit against WA to tie the game down to our final strike. The energy was good.

Thank you

I would like to thank the coaches for the time and work they put in with us. 

Q&A WITH LACHLAN JONES

What position/s did you play during AYC?

My position was catcher, I also played a game as a first baseman.

Your proudest moment individually or as a team?

My proudest moment was when the team was down against WA. After already playing a game in the afternoon, the boys were down by three runs going into the last inning and we managed to claw our way back and tie it up in the pouring rain! The fellas were scrambling to get tarps on and off the field just so we could keep our momentum rolling, which is something you don’t see every day from a group of under-18-year-olds.

What did you do during the rain delays, did you bond as a team, or did you take the time for some personal reflection/training?

During the rainy days we were given some options of what we wanted to do, go see a movie, shopping, etc. I used this time to try and relax and recover in case we were going to be able to get back out on the field and just enjoy being around the boys for the time we had left. I also used the time to get some holiday study done.

How is playing in a national tournament, different from playing in the Qld state titles?

Playing in a National tournament is a lot different playing environment, it turns up the intensity and the speed of the game. You have a lot more eyes on you all of the time and the expectations increase big time. But the pride factor is definitely something for me that doesn’t change whenever I am playing it’s with a purpose and that’s not to let my people, club, or state down, I want to give it my all, all of the time.

From your AYC experience, what do you think you could work on, as an individual or as a team?

As a team, what we can definitely improve on as a whole, is having that one same goal, to win a national championship! I felt like that was lost in Sydney and there were times when the individual goals of players may not have always aligned with the team’s goal. Also learning or understanding how to block out the distractions, sure, having scouts watch is great and exciting, but being able to learn to block them out and just show up as a team, stay present and keep focused on the common goal.

Favourite FUN moment from the whole experience (it doesn’t have to be baseball related).

Favourite FUN moment for me was on one of the rainy days. We got to use a function room at the hotel, which had all sorts of games and fun stuff to do to keep us occupied and enjoy ourselves. 

BQ Suspension Policy

BQ Suspension Policy

As the transition between the summer and winter seasons looms, Baseball Queensland would like to draw attention to the BQ Suspension Policy, drawing attention to section 4.1 of their regulations. This directive, aimed at affiliate bodies, emphasises the necessity to recognise and enforce penalties from disciplinary tribunals conducted by other affiliated leagues and competitions.

Section 4.1 of the policy reads: “It is directed that affiliate bodies acknowledge and agree that they are required to recognize and enforce penalties handed down in all cases involving individual persons, teams, officials, clubs, or spectators by the disciplinary tribunals of all other organising bodies which are affiliated with Baseball Queensland.”

This move underscores Baseball Queensland’s commitment to upholding standards of conduct and fair play across all levels of the sport. With the impending transition between seasons, the organisation is keen on maintaining a cohesive disciplinary framework to ensure consistency and accountability.

The policy is set to be rigorously enforced as the baseball community prepares for the shift in seasons. Players, officials, clubs, and spectators are urged to familiarise themselves with the regulations to avoid any potential disciplinary actions.

Baseball Queensland remains steadfast in its dedication to fostering a positive and respectful environment within the sport, and the implementation of this suspension policy stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to these principles.

Download the Suspension Policy Here
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Panel Calls for Community Involvement Following Parker Byrd’s Inspirational Game

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Panel Calls for Community Involvement Following Parker Byrd’s Inspirational Game

In a powerful display of resilience, Parker Byrd, a sophomore at East Carolina University, took to the baseball field with a prosthetic leg, inspiring the sports world with his determination.  Read the full story here: https://www.mlb.com/news/parker-byrd-plays-in-college-game-with-prosthetic-leg

Following this remarkable moment, Baseball Queensland’s Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Advisory Panel (EDIAP) is calling upon the baseball community to actively participate in shaping the future of the sport. The EDIAP plays a vital role in shaping Baseball Queensland’s commitment to promoting equal opportunities and cultivating an environment of inclusivity within the sport.

By bringing together experts in equity, diversity, and inclusion, the EDIAP develops strategies and initiatives to enhance accessibility, remove barriers, and ensure a welcoming atmosphere for individuals from all backgrounds.

Your voice matters.

We invite all members of the baseball community to share their suggestions and get involved with the EDIAP. Together, we can work towards creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone.

Contact the EDIAP

See Byrd’s various stories online:

PARKER BYRD | CAF SPOT from Machine Age Media on Vimeo.

The Perfect Game 2024 WWBA 14U Tour

The Perfect Game 2024 WWBA 14U Tour

Baseball Australia in partnership with the State Associations and The Perfect Game have developed an initiative to advance the development of talented U14 players from across the country.

Over the last three months, Baseball Australia with the State Associations have been refining the structure of a winter development program and tour to the US culminating in The Perfect Game 14U World Wood Bat Association National Championships in Hoover, Alabama.

Please read this letter from Baseball Australia:  Baseball Australia Tour Letter

Key Information

  • Winter programming to commence Easter through to July.
  • Approximately five state teams will depart Australia on 10th July 2024 for Hoover, Alabama USA via Atlanta, Georgia.
  • They will compete for a minimum of 6 days in the 14U World Wood Bat Association event (dependent on progression, however additional games have already been sourced should teams be eliminated).
  • Teams will return to Australia departing 20th July 2024.
  • Commitments and deposits to be made by the end of March with payment in full to be made by mid May.*

Baseball Queensland are now seeking Expressions of Interest from

players born between 1 May 2009 and 31 December 2010.

PLAYER EOI
COACH EOI

The current estimate of costs is $7,500 per player, noting the following:

  • Current quotes for airfares sits at approx. $3,500 per traveller from the East Coast of Australia, inclusive of domestic flights in the USA.
  • Ground transportation is being quoted by tour bus companies. This is to minimise risks to the travelling party.
  • Meals and accommodation to be provided for the duration of the tour.
  • Uniforms are to be determined once the teams have been finalised.
  • Travel insurance coverage for the entire touring party.

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It is very important to note that the preparation for this event conflicts with age relevant Little League schedule. As such, there has been significant consideration given to this conflict and how we may ensure that the integrity of the age relevant Little League programs remain in place.

With that in mind, the prerequisites of accepting an invite for this tour are as follows:

  • All players must make themselves available for their age relevant Little League Championships.
  • Should your charter progress, you would be required to make yourself available for the National age relevant Little League Championship.
  • Should your charter progress to the age relevant Little League World Series, if you must make the choice between this tour and the Junior League World Series, you must prioritise age relevant Little Leagues.

The prioritisation of playing with your charter, and your friends precedes this Performance Pathways Program activity, consistent with the values that BA and the States want to develop baseballers for life, and this requires the respecting of grassroots baseball. Fear not! If the above applies to you, there is still plenty of time to develop and harness your skills without the competition arm of this activity.

* should players have to withdraw due to the scheduling clash, a full refund will be on offer.

# it is noted that some families maybe in the financial position to undertake both activities. This is your choice to make. BA will only insist on Junior League being the priority.