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New South Wales Country arrives at the Australian Youth Championships bound by something stronger than postcode or club colours – a shared commitment to the game.

For these players, a love of the game is forged across long drives, early mornings, and a genuine passion for community and sport.

This is a team drawn from one of the largest geographic footprints in the tournament.

READ ALL PREVIEWS AT THE TOURNAMENT HUB: 2026 Australian Youth Championships

Teammates don’t live around the corner from each other. Training often means hours on the road at local clubs. But that distance has shaped, rather than fractured, the groups.

It’s a wild pre-tournament schedule for the kids. The U18 Country Championships are in Wollongong, the Senior Championships are in Lismore, regional training sessions are held in various country regions, team trainings are held in Newcastle, Gosford and Sydney.

The distance? Immense.

With players rounded out from NSW Metro, both Country sides will try to find unity quickly.

Let’s meet each of the teams.

U18 NSW COUNTRY: TOGETHER, NO MATTER THE DISTANCE

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“We cover a large area,” coach Ian Hook said. “The players have to love the game, because they spend a lot of time travelling to get to training and to games.”

Hook has seen it all.

With 22 years coaching Country programs across multiple age groups, he understands how rare it is to turn scattered talent into a connected team, and how powerful it can be when it clicks.

Training has been deliberate rather than constant.

NSW Country has come together fortnightly since October, focusing on fundamentals, trust, and confidence.

“We’re aiming to make top four,” Hook said. “Anything can happen then.”

The blueprint is simple and intentional. NSW Country will rely on pitchers attacking the zone, defenders making plays, and hitters putting the ball in play.

“Pitchers to throw strikes. Good defence. Making good contact,” Hook said.

Those priorities have translated quickly, particularly in the field.

“Good defence,” Hook said, when asked about the biggest improvement since camp began.

That defensive strength is built on familiarity.

Several players have represented NSW Country for multiple years, including Connor McCarthy, who says continuity has made a difference.

“Most of us have played for NSW Country for three-plus years together,” McCarthy, from the Far North Baseball Association, said. “We know each other really well and bond well as a team.”

Belief has been another major focus. Hook has challenged players to trust their instincts and back themselves in key moments.

“Having the confidence in themselves to make the right calls,” he said.

That mindset has helped shape a culture rooted in effort and mateship.

“Supporting, back each other, hard workers, mateship,” Hook said.

Roster selection reflected those values. NSW Country prioritised players who were willing to invest in their growth — often while balancing travel, school, and club commitments.

“Players who wanted to work hard on their game and not give up on themselves and their teammates,” Hook said.

Several players fit that mould and could make a real impact during the tournament.

Ben Frost is one.

“Nobody works harder,” says Hook.

Behind the plate, Tyler Boggiss brings leadership and experience after multiple AYC campaigns, while Patrick Harrison adds consistency and control on the mound, having pitched regularly in senior competitions.

In the middle of the diamond, Connor McCarthy provides stability and contact at the plate, while Mikaere Pora adds athleticism and explosiveness in the outfield after a rapid rise through Country pathways.

On the pitching side, Cohen Ryan returns to the national stage after injury, having previously delivered one of the most memorable complete-game performances at an AYC. His ability to control games when healthy adds a significant dimension to the staff.

Together, they form a group that understands sacrifice, values effort, and thrives on connection — even when separated by hundreds of kilometres.

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Togetherness built over distance

This is a group used to limited time together — and they’ve learned how to connect quickly. That cohesion can be decisive in tight games.

2. Defence keeping them competitive

Clean defence has been a clear point of improvement and will be critical in helping NSW Country stay in games against deeper lineups.

3. Hard-earned breakout performances

Players like Frost, Harrison, Ryan, and Pora bring very different strengths, but all share a willingness to work. Expect a few Country names to emerge as the tournament unfolds.

U16 NSW COUNTRY: TOGETHER AND TOUGH

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Like the U18s, there’s a large spread of distances covered to make up this team.

Players come from across the state — from the Far North Coast to the Hunter, Illawarra, Sydney fringe and Central Coast — and that geography has defined their journey.

“Our preparation has been as best as we can manage given that we have players from across the Country regions of NSW,” coach Garry Everson said. “Prior to coming together as a group, players from each region were asked to prepare locally.”

That reality hasn’t weakened the group.

“We don’t see each other much because of how far away each other live,” Lismore utility player Corey Daniels said. “But we all train extremely hard, so when we come together it can flow easily.”

When the squad did assemble, the focus was clear: fundamentals, trust, and playing the game the right way.

“My expectations are to play smart baseball, take advantage of opportunities, pay attention and support each other,” Everson said.

That approach has translated into a culture the coach is proud of.

“The team culture has been outstanding,” he said. “The boys are very focused.”

Players describe it in simpler terms.

“Our sense of community and teamwork,” one player said.

“Strong camaraderie for a team separated by large distances,” Lincoln Wilson (North Coast Brewers) added.

On the field, NSW Country’s identity is built around defence, strike-throwing, and contact.

“Pitchers to throw strikes. Good defence. Making good contact,” Everson said.

Defence, in particular, has been a clear point of growth.

“They have bonded well with each other,” Everson said. “They have matured in body, mind and experience. They have a determination to succeed.”

That determination shows up across the roster. Blake Fleming (Belmont) points to resilience as a defining trait.

“Our biggest strength is resilience,” he said. “We bounce back and find a way to come back.”

Roster selection reflected maturity and composure as much as talent.

“Best fit for each position. Maturity and approach. Ability to remain calm under pressure,” Everson said.

Several players have positioned themselves as names to watch as the tournament unfolds.

Kirk Gilbert (White Sox, Newcastle) brings versatility across multiple positions and a strong competitive edge after extensive representative experience.

Austin Turner (Belmont)  adds power on the mound and athleticism, returning after a challenging injury period with renewed focus.

Liam Gardner (Belmont) anchors the infield with consistency and work ethic, while Riley Coombes (Wyong Wildcats) provides sharp reflexes and reliability at third base.

Lachlan Leicht (Taren Point) arrives after a standout club season and USA tour experience, combining offensive production with composure beyond his years.

Whether it’s players overcoming injury, travel, floods, or limited resources, NSW Country arrives with a collective belief that effort and unity can close any gap.

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Togetherness built across distance

This group has learned how to connect quickly and trust each other. That cohesion could be decisive in close games.

2. Defence setting the tone

Improved fielding and communication will be key to keeping pressure off the pitching staff.

3. Breakout performances everywhere

From Gilbert and Turner to Gardner, Leicht, Coombes and Ryan, NSW Country has multiple players capable of stepping into the spotlight.

Queensland prepares for a national tournament like no other.

They go international.

From playing teams abroad in Taiwan, to welcoming international clubs to their home state, Queensland is tactfully exposing their players to all sorts of different styles of baseball.

READ ALL PREVIEWS AT THE TOURNAMENT HUB: 2026 Australian Youth Championships

They’ll hope it pays off at the upcoming national championships.

Let’s meet both sides.

U16 QUEENSLAND: BONDED, BATTLE-READY, TESTED AND CHASING A MEDAL

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Coached by Phil Overlack, this squad has been shaped through a demanding and thorough preparation phase.

Queensland has trained weekly since September, played a six-game series against a touring New Zealand U16 side, and completed multiple multi-day camps designed to test execution, resilience, and team defence.

“We’ve been training once a week since the start of September,” Overlack said. “Then we had camps where mornings were fundamentals and team defence, and afternoons were game play.”

The expectation is clear.

“Playing for a medal at the back end of the tournament,” Overlack said.

That belief is shared throughout the group. A defining feature of this Queensland team has been how quickly it has come together.

“This group has bonded really well,” Overlack said. “A lot of strike throwers and guys that just compete.”

Players feel that connection on and off the field.

“Our bond,” said Lewis Hill (Redlands Rays), when asked what stands out about the group.

“We are cohesive and all get along really well,” added Kai Flynn-Ballard (Redlands Rays).

Confidence has grown steadily through preparation.

“Confidence and belief in each other,” Overlack said, describing the biggest improvement he has seen since camp began.

That confidence is underpinned by significant big-game experience.

A large contingent of this Queensland squad previously represented Australia at the Junior League World Series with Brisbane North, giving the group first-hand exposure to international pressure, packed schedules, and win-or-go-home baseball. It’s experience that has shaped both belief and composure within the team.

Execution under pressure has been a major focus throughout camp.

“Making the routine play under pressure,” Overlack said. “And knowing all the team defence — bunt defence, first-and-thirds, everything.”

Several players echoed that mindset.

“Our fielding and pitching,” said Patrick Fogg (Narangba Demons), identifying the team’s foundation. Fogg is one of several Queenslanders who just returned from the U15 World Cup Qualifiers in Guam.

“Our team is extremely strong at picking each other up on and off the field,” said Zavier Leigh (Robina Braves). “We’re aggressive in all aspects of the game.”

Roster construction focused on balance and strike-throwing, giving Queensland flexibility across a long tournament.
“Just looking for a well-balanced squad,” Overlack said. “With a lot of strike throwers.”

That balance brings depth and multiple avenues to impact games.

Buzz Mechum (Surfers Paradise) returns for his second AYC as a left-handed centre fielder and pitcher, combining speed, strength, and consistency.

Will Bain (Pine Rivers Rapids) adds range and arm strength in the middle of the diamond.

Archer Peterson (Redcliffe Padres) arrives for his first AYC after starring at the U15 World Cup Qualifier, already recognised as one of the top athletes in the country for his age. He also represented Australia at the Junior League World Series.

Chase Crew (Redcliffe Padres), another World Series rep, returns after injury interrupted his pathway, bringing advanced game awareness and command.

Tyler Wilson (Pine Rivers Rapids) brings rare pedigree, having competed at Little League, Intermediate League, and Junior League World Series level.

Around them, Queensland’s depth continues.

Lachlan Pawsey (GBL) provides leadership behind the plate after international experience with Team Australia.

That exposure to big moments is something Overlack sees as a defining Queensland strength.

“A lot of these athletes have been to numerous World Series,” he said. “They’re competitive, good mates, and team-first.”

There is also an edge driving this group.

“As the coach, I was very disappointed with how we performed last year,” Overlack said. “We will be better this year.”

With belief growing, execution drilled, and a roster built to thrive under pressure, Queensland’s U16 group enters the Australian Youth Championships determined to turn experience into results.

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Strike throwing across the staff

Queensland’s depth of strike-throwers gives them a chance to control tempo and limit free bases.

2. Execution in pressure moments

Routine plays and situational defence have been drilled relentlessly — especially valuable late in games.

3. Big-game composure

International World Series experience means this group understands pressure and pace when it matters most.

U18 QUEENSLAND: DEPTH, DISCIPLINE, AND BELIEF

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Queensland enters the Australian Youth Championships with a U18 group built on preparation, experience, and a growing belief in what this team can become.

Led by head coach David Badke, Queensland’s program has been shaped through a structured and demanding lead-in.

In fact, it’s a preparation like no other. They have played all over the world.

The group emerged from a statewide showcase series, then tested itself internationally at the U18 Taiwan International Tournament in New Taipei City, followed by a six-game series against New Zealand in mid-December.

Half the team travelled to Taiwan, with the remainder competing in the New Zealand series. The squad regrouped on 27 December for a four-day training camp.

“Preparation has been good,” Badke said. “We gave players opportunities to showcase themselves, then tested the group in international environments before locking in our final work. These pre-AYC tournaments offer an excellent opportunity to identify key areas of focus ahead of final preparations.”

Players felt the value of that exposure.

“Got to travel to Taiwan before with people from the Queensland team,” said Max Stefanutto (Windsor Royals). “It helped us come together as one.”

The expectations are grounded in process rather than prediction.

“To be competitive in every game, be consistent with our processes, and execute when opportunities present,” Badke said. “If we can do this, the results will take care of themselves.”

That kind team-first of approach helped Queensland win a national championship in 2023.

It’s reflected throughout the roster.

Queensland’s biggest strength lies in its pitching depth, bolstered by experienced returners and arms that have already competed at national and international level.

“Our roster is pretty consistent,” Badke said. “The pitching depth, with several older players returning, will be a real benefit.”

Pitcher Kobi Wise (Surfers Paradise Baseball Club) sees that depth as a defining feature.

“Our pitching staff,” he said, when asked about the team’s biggest strength. “Staying consistent will be key.”
The culture within the group has also continued to strengthen.

From an offensive standpoint, producing three to five runs will be key to supporting Queensland’s pitching depth and keeping the squad in games for longer periods.

“The culture has been positive,” Badke said. “The group has worked hard and looks like they’re being good teammates to each other.”

That sense of connection is echoed by players across clubs and regions.

“We work as a team and persevere through tough times,” said Leo McKenna (Windsor Royals).

“Our whole team gets along very well,” added Paddy McLoughlin (Redcliffe Padres). “Pitching will be a big standout this year.”

Defensively, Queensland has prioritised reliability and repeatable execution.

“Defence and being consistent,” Badke said, describing the focus of training sessions.

Outfielder Alonzo Zaire Griffin (Redcliffe Padres), who has been to multiple World Series events, pointed to the same theme.

“We’ve got heart and work together as a team,” he said, reflecting on how the group handles pressure.

One player poised for a strong national campaign is Patrick Crotty, whose journey over the past year has been anything but linear. Crotty pitched for Australia at the U18 World Cup and features a fast-ball approaching 90mph.

“Patrick has had a great year on the mound,” Badke said. “He’s was selected in the U18 World Cup Team and is progressing very well.”

Crotty has already been identified by selectors as a potential signing by a professional club.

“Hard throwing right-hander with control and excellent breaking stuff,” McLoughlin said of Crotty.

Queensland’s depth means impact can come from many areas.

Thomas Calvert (Redlands Rays) brings experience and durability, having represented Queensland and Australia multiple times.

Leo McKenna (Windsor Royals) anchors the left side of the infield with arm strength and international experience from Japan.

Blake McPherson (Pine Hills Lightning) adds athleticism in the outfield after multiple national campaigns.

Tirrell Waiwai (Brisbane North program) gives Queensland another power arm with big-game experience from Little League and Junior League nationals.

Across the roster, the common thread is development through opportunity — a strength Badke sees as central to baseball in the state.

“The development and performance programs, with some great coaches and mentors,” he said.

With international preparation behind them, pitching depth throughout the roster, and a growing belief in their identity, Queensland enters the U18 Australian Youth Championships ready to compete every day.

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Pitching depth across the tournament

Queensland has multiple arms capable of starting, relieving, and matching up late. Managing innings will be a major advantage.

2. Defence setting the baseline

Consistency in the field has been a priority. Clean defence will allow Queensland’s pitching to control games.

3. Breakout performances from a deep roster

From Crotty and Wise on the mound to McKenna, Calvert, and McPherson around the diamond, Queensland has no shortage of players ready to step into big moments.