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.

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.

Following the recent announcement by Baseball Australia, unveiling plans for the inaugural Girls’ Little League National Championships, Baseball Queensland is now seeking expressions of interest from players keen to represent their region in the Queensland Championships. This exciting initiative provides young female athletes with a national platform to showcase their talent and passion for the sport.

Once EOIs are received, they will be provided to BQ Regions to help them ascertain the viability of team nominations.  Regions with sufficient player numbers can enter their own teams, while areas facing shortages are encouraged to combine forces to ensure participation. BQ will then establish potential dates for the event, aiming to avoid conflicts with the Little League State Titles in April. This will enable players to engage in both tournaments, maximising their participation opportunities.

This regional tournament will serve as a qualifier for the national event, scheduled from May 8th to May 12th, with a venue yet to be announced.

The introduction of the Girls’ Little League National Championships underscores Baseball Australia’s commitment to diversity and the sport’s continued growth. This event celebrates the talent of young female athletes and sets the stage for future generations to excel in baseball.  Read more about the national championships at Baseball Australia.

Baseball Queensland is thrilled to announce the return of the Emerging Athlete Program (EAP) for its second year, with a renewed focus on nurturing the talents of young athletes across North Queensland. Entering its exciting new phase, the EAP is opening registrations for the North Queensland Program in Cairns and Townsville, providing on-field developmental opportunities for athletes aged 10-18 who aspire to elevate their game within Baseball Queensland’s Performance Pathway.

The 2024 program encompasses a wide range of baseball training components, including speed, agility, throwing, infield and outfield drills, hitting, and strength and conditioning. These comprehensive sessions aim to improve fundamental skills, enhance overall performance, and foster well-rounded athleticism.

Cairns Program:

Start Date: 3rd March
Duration: 8-weeks
Age Group: 10-18 years
Coordinator: Anthony Van Fleet
Venue: Bear Park, Brinsmead
Time: 9:00AM – 11:00AM