Queensland U18 Team Hosts Taiwan Delegation for Ceremonial First Pitch

Despite challenging weather conditions, the Queensland U18 baseball team and their guests from Taiwan enjoyed a memorable evening, highlighted by a ceremonial first pitch.

In the lead-up to the game, the Taiwan baseball leadership group, which included Palau Major League Baseball President Mlib Tmetuchl, Taiwan International Baseball Interchange Development Association President Randy Huang, and Tetsu Yofu, the Team Taiwan Manager and Detroit Tigers scout, met with Baseball Queensland CEO Gareth Jones. This meeting focused on exploring collaborative opportunities to enhance the growth and development of baseball within both regions.

Last night, we were honoured to welcome Baseball Queensland Commissioner Chris Norrie and Board member Brad Parsons to the event. Member of Parliament John-Paul Langbroek braved the rain to throw the ceremonial first pitch, with China Airlines Brisbane Branch General Manager Jeff Tsai stepping up as the ceremonial batter.

This exhibition game serves as a significant opportunity for our newly announced U18 squad, led by Head Coach David Badke, to refine their skills and offer the community a glimpse of what to expect this summer. As we prepare for the upcoming season, this event promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and sportsmanship.

The rescheduled game has now been cancelled due to the rain.

Pitcher of the Year: Paddy McLoughlin
Hitter of the Year: Blake McPherson
Team Culture of the Year: Cooper Teichmann
MVP of the Year: Alex Duncalfe

Pitcher of the Year: Zye Carr
Hitter of the Year: Liam Kiddle
Team Culture of the Year: Lachlan Jones
MVP of the Year: Max Durrington

PROGRAM AWARDS

Coach of the Year: David Paddison

MVP of the Year: Max Durrington

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARDS

David West

Tony McPhail

Fay Bettridge

Meredith Brealey

Dear Region Members,

Please find attached a copy of Notice of the 2024 Baseball Queensland Annual General Meeting.

Director positions up for election/re-election in 2024 are currently held by:

Brendan Vassallo, Director – Finance

Daniel White, Director – Member Services and Events   

Nominees are:

Daniel White  Nomination  |  Skills Matrix

Brendan Vassallo   Nomination  |  Skills Matrix

Shaye Fatnowna  Nomination

Candidates were encouraged to review the information available from this link and to complete and return the Skills Matrix. 

To nominate someone for Baseball Queensland’s Life Membership, the form can be found HERE.

Queensland’s U16 and U18 Players Receive Team Australia Gear Ahead of USA Tour

Last night was a special occasion for Queensland’s U16 and U18 players as they received their Team Australia gear for their upcoming USA tour. The event was made even more memorable by the presence of Andrew Riddell, Baseball Australia’s national player development manager, alongside Shayne Watson, presented players with their gear.

Riddell spoke to the players and parents, highlighting the significance of the tour for their development as players. “This tour is a rare opportunity,” Riddell said. “You’ll be facing some of the best young players in the world, and this experience will help you grow as athletes. Representing Australia is an honour, and I know you’ll make your state and country proud.”

The U16 squad, led by Queensland Coach David Badke and Assistant Coach Dan Wilson, will compete in a five-game series against the USA’s 15U team in Atlanta. This is the first time Australia and the USA will meet in a series at this age level. The U16s will also take part in the 2024 U16 Perfect Game World Series, playing against top college prospects and future MLB draft picks.

The U18 squad will head to Florida from September to October. They’ll compete in high-level tournaments in front of professional scouts and college recruiters, giving them a chance to showcase their talents. With many of their American opponents already committed to top NCAA Division 1 schools, it’s a significant opportunity for the Queenslanders to stand out.