Gold Coast Junior Girls’ Skills Day

Gold Coast Junior Girls’ Skills Day

Dec 11, 2024

Following on the success of the Junior Girls’ Skills Development program hosted by Mudgeeraba Redsox Baseball Club and Gold Coast Baseball Association, it was time to focus on the younger girls. Bad weather couldn’t keep these girls, aged 5-9 years, away. They turned up with smiles and enthusiasm and were met by the same from their coaches.

Led by Kim and Tammy McMillan, Gold Coast Division 1 players Lila Hall, Grace White and Taliyah Paolo put the girls through their paces. Some were new to the game, others had some playing experience under their belt.

Looking forward to seeing some of these girls give it their best at the upcoming Baseball Queensland Girls’ State Titles.

U18s head to Taiwan

U18s head to Taiwan

Dec 5, 2024

The Queensland U18 Baseball Team depart for Taiwan today, embarking on their second consecutive trip to play in the 2024 New Taipei City International U-18 Baseball Invitational Tournament. This exciting journey offers a blend of cultural exploration and high-level competition, providing an exceptional opportunity for players to grow both on and off the field. The tour serves as a vital part of the team’s preparation for the upcoming Australian Youth Championships (AYC) in January 2025.

The team is set to arrive in Taiwan tomorrow and will dive into an action-packed week of games, sharpening their skills and experiencing baseball in a challenging international environment.

Game Schedule (QLD Time):

  • 9 December 2024 @ Sanchung Stadium – 7:00 am
  • 10 December 2024 @ Tianmu Stadium – 7:00 am
  • 11 December 2024 @ Sanchung Stadium – 7:00 am

Beyond the diamond, the players will have the chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Taiwan. This combination of competitive play and cultural exposure makes the tour a truly enriching experience.

The players will be supported by a skilled and dedicated coaching staff, including David Badke, Scott Porter, Keith Land, and Rickey Lo. Their expertise and guidance will be invaluable as the team tackles the challenges of international competition and prepares for the AYC.

This international tour provides a unique opportunity for the Queensland U18s to refine their game, build team camaraderie, and gain valuable experience against international opponents. It’s an important stepping stone as they gear up for the Australian Youth Championships in January.

Official Facebook Page for 2024 New Taipei City International U-18 Baseball Invitational Tournament: https://www.facebook.com/NTPCxFUBONxU18

Click here for tournament updates
2024 QLD Women’s State Titles

2024 QLD Women’s State Titles

Dec 4, 2024

The Queensland Women’s State Titles are nearly here! This much-anticipated event runs from 13–15 December, with Division 1 hosted at the Narangba Demons Baseball Club and Division 2 at the Runcorn Indians Baseball Club. Following this, the Youth Women and Girls State Titles take place from 16–18 December, also at Narangba Demons Baseball Club.

More than just a competition, these state titles are a true celebration of the baseball community. Teams from across the state, including those travelling from North Queensland, come together for a few special days of connection, shared passion, and unforgettable moments. This tournament shows how baseball brings communities closer while highlighting the incredible talent in the sport.

These state titles are a rare chance to witness not just Queensland’s best, but some of Australia’s finest female baseball players in action. From seasoned competitors to emerging stars, the level of skill on display is nothing short of inspiring.

The game schedules are now available via links below:

women's state titles
Youth Women's & Girls State Titles
International Day of People with Disability 2024: Championing Inclusion in Baseball

International Day of People with Disability 2024: Championing Inclusion in Baseball

Dec 2, 2024

3rd December 2024 is The International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), a key moment to celebrate inclusion and accessibility. This year’s theme, “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future,” highlights Baseball Queensland’s ongoing commitment to building a supportive baseball community for everyone.
 
Visit The IDPwD Website: https://www.idpwd.com.au/
 

Partnerships Driving Inclusion

Baseball Queensland is collaborating with Autism Queensland and Sport4All, with support from the Queensland Government’s Active Industry Project Fund, to improve access to baseball for people with disabilities.
 
Through our partnership with Autism Queensland, we are working on creating resources to help coaches and clubs better support all participants in our sport. These tools will aim to make baseball more accessible and enjoyable for all players.
 
Sport4All is also playing a key role in developing programs to help clubs and volunteers break down barriers to participation. Earlier this year, Baseball Queensland hosted its first Sport4All webinar, offering clubs practical steps for promoting inclusivity. The webinar focused on adapting activities and making facilities more accessible. Watch the WEBINAR HERE.
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Beyond educational programs, Sport4All provides valuable resources, including club assessments, action plans, and guides for volunteers. These resources are designed to help clubs create welcoming environments and prioritise accessibility for all participants.
 

The Role of the EDI Advisory Panel

The Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Advisory Panel (EDIAP) plays a key role in guiding Baseball Queensland’s inclusion strategy. This panel of experts helps shape initiatives aimed at improving accessibility, removing barriers, and creating an inclusive atmosphere for everyone involved in baseball.
 
Andrea Marshall, Director of Projects, Diversity and Inclusion says:
“There should be a place for everyone within our sport. Inclusive approaches to the delivery of baseball will not only strengthen our sport but the broader Queensland community. “

How Clubs and Volunteers Can Make a Difference

Clubs and volunteers are essential to promoting inclusivity in baseball. By engaging volunteers and providing clear roles and training, clubs can ensure everyone is equipped to support inclusivity. Creating welcoming environments is crucial, including greeting new participants and offering tours to help them feel comfortable.
 
Clubs should also adapt activities, like modifying drills and games to suit varying abilities, and seek feedback from participants and families to remain responsive to their needs. Leveraging resources from Autism Queensland and Sport4All can further guide inclusivity efforts. Recognising the contributions of volunteers and club members who actively promote inclusivity ensures their efforts are celebrated.
 
Clubs can develop volunteer roles that cater to different abilities by assigning tasks that align with individual strengths, such as team management, coaching, or scoring. Encouraging existing volunteers to mentor others with disabilities provides support and guidance, ensuring all participants feel valued and included. This approach fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can contribute meaningfully.

 

Looking Ahead

With ongoing support from the Queensland Government, Autism Queensland, and Sport4All, Baseball Queensland is planning new inclusive programs for 2025. These initiatives will offer more opportunities for people of all abilities to engage with the sport.
 
On this International Day of People with Disability, we celebrate the clubs, volunteers, and partners who are working to make baseball more inclusive. Together, we are building a sport that welcomes everyone.
Mackenzie Hicks – A Queenslander’s Journey at the Barclay Cup

Mackenzie Hicks – A Queenslander’s Journey at the Barclay Cup

Nov 28, 2024

Mackenzie Hicks – A Queenslander’s Journey at the Barclay Cup
 
At just 13 years old, Queenslander Mackenzie Hicks stepped out of her comfort zone to play at the Barclay Cup as a friendship player with Baseball NSW’s Cinda Spirit team. It was an experience that brought new challenges, new friendships, and a bronze medal.
Playing with a team from another state wasn’t just about competing for Mackenzie—it was an opportunity to learn, connect with teammates, and grow as a player. From the nervous first moments of meeting her new team to the highlights of singing, dancing, and playing in a nail-biting semifinal, Mackenzie embraced every aspect of the experience.
 
Her coach, Tahnee Lovering, praised Mackenzie’s contributions to the team both on and off the field: “Having Mackenzie as an interstate pick-up was great for us. She came in to pitch when we needed her to and had some solid hits throughout the week. Most importantly, she really bonded with her teammates with ease. Watching her interact and laugh with the girls made it clear how much she enjoyed it and how valuable building friendships in tournament baseball can be.”
Baseball NSW Communications Manager, Georgia Marino says,  “The Barclay Cup offers an opportunity for young girls to follow in the footsteps of Jacinda Barclay, a pioneer not only in Women’s baseball, but women’s sport as a whole. Her spirit lives on in the players who participate in this event and get to learn about the impact she had in baseball. We especially appreciate Jacinda’s family and all the coaching staff who had the pleasure of knowing Jacinda and have been integral in continuing and sharing her legacy with the next generation of female baseballers!”
 

We spoke with Mackenzie to hear about her time with the Cinda Spirit team, her proudest moments, and what she would say to others who might find themselves in her shoes.

 

Starting Out
Q: How did you feel when you found out you’d be playing with a team from another state?
A: When I learned I’d be playing for a NSW team, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement. I was nervous about joining a team where I didn’t know anyone, but I was also excited about the chance to play baseball and meet a lot of new people.
 
Q: What were you most excited about before the tournament started?
A: I couldn’t wait for the opportunity to play baseball and to make new friends along the way.
 
Being on a New Team
Q: What was it like joining the Cinda Spirit team and meeting new teammates?
A: Being part of the Cinda Spirit team was an amazing experience! From the first night, which was really fun, I met a lot of new people. Everybody was welcoming, and I felt right at home.
 
Q: Did you make any new friends on the team?
A: Absolutely, I made plenty of new friends, and it was awesome to connect with so many people.
 
Highlights and Fun Moments
Q: What was your favourite moment from the Barclay Cup?
A: There were so many great moments throughout the week, but my favourites were definitely the singing, dancing, and making team videos for the Barclay Cup.
  
Q: What was your proudest moment on the field?
A: My proudest moment on the field was when I was up to bat and hit a double to the outfield.
 
Q: Was there anything challenging?
A: It was really challenging when I first got to the lodge where we were staying. I didn’t know anyone, and it was difficult to go in because I was really nervous

Learning and Growing

Q: Did you learn any new skills or warmups from your new teammates?
A: The Cinda Spirit team were always encouraging each other, and we all got along really well. The coaches were pretty epic too.
 
Q: How has this experience made you feel about playing baseball?
A: I can’t wait to continue playing baseball and the next Barclay Cup. I also learned a lot about Jacinta Barclay, which was inspiring.
 
Advice for Others
Q: What would you say to other kids who might get the chance to play with a new team?
A: You never know what you might learn about yourself, so don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone.
 
 
Mackenzie’s experience at the Barclay Cup highlights the opportunities that come with stepping into something new. At just 13, she’s already shown resilience and determination, leaving with lasting memories and a medal to celebrate her efforts. We can’t wait to see where Mackenzie’s baseball journey takes her next.
Tony McPhail Awarded Life Membership with Baseball Queensland

Tony McPhail Awarded Life Membership with Baseball Queensland

Nov 27, 2024

Tony McPhail has been recognised with Baseball Queensland Life Membership for his extensive contributions to baseball across Queensland.

Tony has served as President of the Surfers Paradise Baseball Club for over two decades, from 1996 to 2019 and then from 2020 to the present. During this time, he has led all major facility upgrades at the club, including enclosing the second diamond, building new amenities, modernising the clubhouse, and constructing batting cages. His efforts have helped develop the club into a key hub for baseball in the region.

In addition to his leadership at the club, Tony has been an executive member of the Gold Coast Baseball Association Committee, with terms from 1999 to 2008, 2011 to 2015, and again from 2020. He has been a consistent supporter of players competing in both Gold Coast Baseball Association and Greater Brisbane League competitions.

Tony has been a strong advocate for improving access to baseball for all, particularly women and girls. This includes the establishment of a dedicated female change room for umpires at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club, supporting inclusivity in the sport.

His contributions extend beyond the club. He has played a key role in organising major baseball events in Queensland, including the inaugural and subsequent Queensland Masters Tournaments, hosting the first Barclay Cup, and coordinating the Pan Pacific Masters Games from 2002 to 2022. These events have been important in growing the sport, with the Pan Pac Masters Games introducing a women’s division under Tony’s guidance.

Tony’s work has helped strengthen engagement among players and volunteers at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club. His efforts in regional and state events like the Queensland Masters, Barclay Cup, and Pan Pacific Masters Games highlight his wider impact on the sport.