Preview and Roster | Victoria at the 2026 U18 and U16 Baseball Championships

28 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Australian Youth Championships

Preview and Roster | Victoria at the 2026 U18 and U16 Baseball Championships

Victorian players have a rare opportunity in front of them – a chance to win a national title at home.

It’s a proud baseball state with a long history of success.

Both the Under 18s and Under 16s have recent gold medals and always seem to be in the mix.

It’s a proud program built on the expectation of producing results.

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

Can one of the country’s most successful program capitalise on home field advantage?

U18 VICTORIA: A HOME STATE TEST

Two years removed from their most recent U18 title, Victoria hopes to use a promising group of players who have climbed through their ranks to bring back gold.

Gold, on home soil, that is.

Coached by Marshall Skinner, this squad features players who have spent years progressing through Victorian pathways, gaining repeated exposure to national championships, charter tournaments, and international opportunities.

“Most of our guys have been in the system for a number of years now,” Skinner said. “They’re used to playing at this kind of level.”

Preparation has been demanding. Victoria has trained as a squad twice a week, with additional individual sessions layered around club commitments — leaving many players on the field up to five days a week.

That workload has allowed the coaching staff to focus on detail rather than foundations.

“We’ve seen a better understanding of team defence, base running, field positioning and depth,” Skinner said.

Those finer points have stood out to players as well.

“Our biggest strength is our depth,” said Mitchell Langworthy (Moorabbin Baseball Club). “We’ve got heaps of good pitching and good hitting through the lineup.”

Skinner added he homes the depth translates to one easy message.

“Team first,” Skinner said simply.

That mentality is echoed across the roster.

“We’ve got an all-round talented group of guys who really hold the drive to win,” said Ryley Shanks (Essendon Baseball Club). “Everyone knows what it takes.”

Experience runs deep. Several Victorians have played at multiple Australian Youth Championships, charter nationals, and international tournaments.

Pitcher Brandon Elton (Sandringham Baseball Club) brings a resume that includes Little League, Junior League, Senior League Nationals, multiple AYCs, and Team Australia experience.

“Everyone can do whatever is needed of them at any time,” Elton said. “That’s what makes this group strong.”

On the mound, Victoria’s pitching depth is a recurring theme.

“Our biggest strength would be our pitching,” said Marcus Murphy (Essendon Baseball Club).

That depth is bolstered by players returning healthy and confident. Riley Peoples (Geelong Baycats / Melbourne Aces) missed last year’s tournament through injury but is back in the mix. He has been pitching for the Melbourne Aces the last few months.

“Staying healthy has been the biggest thing for me,” Peoples said. “This group has serious depth.”

Others have taken pride in how the group executes the details.

“Our consistency through the whole lineup stands out,” said Roman Coote (Williamstown Wolves).

Behind the plate, catchers Jordan Ellis (Geelong Baycats / Melbourne Aces) and Sam Walk (Doncaster Baseball Club) bring leadership, physicality, and big-game experience.

“The vibe and relationship we have with each other is huge,” Ellis said. “We all try to bring the best out of each other.”
Skinner believes two players are particularly well placed for strong tournaments.

“Mitch Langworthy is maybe in the best shape he’s been for an AYC,” he said. “And Liam Puncher is starting to develop velocity and command.”

Puncher (Moorabbin Baseball Club / Melbourne Aces) sees that growth as collective.

“Mateship — and that we play for each other,” he said.

Victoria will face a unique challenge this year, competing in their home state across three different venues, each playing differently.

“We’re looking forward to some new challenges,” Skinner said. “Being in our home state for the first time in a while and adapting to different grounds.”

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Pitching depth

Multiple arms with national and international experience give Victoria options across the week.

2. Detail in execution

Team defence, base running, and positioning have been a focus — small moments may decide big games.

3. Adapting to home conditions

Three venues, three different styles. How Victoria adjusts could shape their tournament.

U16 PREVIEW | Players cite strong team bond ahead of a National Championship at home

Victoria enters the Australian Youth Championships with a U16 group built on balance, familiarity, and steady improvement across the program.

The team is led by a coaching group with deep experience at this level. The head coach, based at Moorabbin Panthers, is in his third consecutive year leading the U16 Victorian program, alongside a staff that has worked closely together through multiple campaigns.

Preparation has been consistent and deliberate.

“We’ve trained Monday and Wednesday since the second week of November,” the coach said. “We also played five games in four days against South Australia from December 26 to 29.”

That lead-in has helped accelerate growth for a group with significant turnover.

“We’ve only got four returning players from last year,” he said. “But the young group has consistently improved throughout the program.”

That improvement has been evident across the diamond. While Victoria expects to be even on both sides of the ball, the offence brings an element of experience through returning hitters and second-year Roos players.

“I think we’ll be fairly even on both sides,” the coach said. “Our offence has some experience with returning hitters from last year’s team as well as second-year Roos players.”

Culture has been a strong foundation. Many players have progressed together through Victoria’s Futures Program, giving them an early understanding of expectations and standards.

“I’ve seen a focused and supportive group,” the coach said. “A majority of these players have come through our futures program together, which has given them familiarity with each other and clarity around how to train and play.”

Players have felt that connection quickly.

“The way we have gelled together really well,” said Jack Northfield (Geelong Baycats).

“Team chemistry,” added Tom Hill (Moorabbin Baseball Club), a returning player with multiple AYC appearances.

As the program progressed, improvements have come broadly rather than in one isolated area.
“We’ve had improvements across the board,” the coach said. “That’s often what happens in this age group.”

On the field, Victoria has prioritised execution under pressure.

“Teams that throw strikes and handle the ball are successful in these tournaments,” the coach said. “We’ve manipulated game situations so we can keep the game from speeding up on us.”

That approach aligns with what players see as the group’s strengths.

“Our team is pretty balanced,” said Darcy Squire (Melbourne Baseball Club).

“Lots of good pitching,” added Cale Morris (Geelong Baycats), an Australian representative.
Roster selection was expanded this year to give players more opportunities to show themselves in game settings.

“We added extra trials and scrimmage games,” the coach said. “That allowed a couple of surprises to come through and earn their spots with their performances.”

Several players have positioned themselves for strong tournaments.

Darcy Squire has impressed on the mound with pitching IQ and composure.

Jacob Tayler, a bottom-age player from Blackburn Baseball Club, continues to stand out for his work ethic and competitiveness.

Tom Hill, returning after an unlucky tournament last year, has taken on greater leadership and consistency.

“He hit the ball well last year without much luck,” the coach said of Hill. “He’s shown good leadership this year and I hope he gets rewarded for his effort.”

Across the roster, versatility remains a defining feature.

“We have many two-way players,” said Sam Stafilis (Waverley Baseball Club).

“We can all play multiple positions and perform well,” added Parks Halasz (Werribee Giants).
That flexibility is paired with resilience and experience.

Edison Bush (Blackburn Baseball Club) and Jacob Tayler bring national-team experience, while Cruize Chase (Newport Rams) adds a story of perseverance after returning from knee surgery at a young age.

The coaching staff itself also brings continuity.

“It’s my second year together with Ethan,” the coach said. “And we’re excited to add Bryan Kloppe as our pitching coach. He’s had great experience coaching in the independent leagues in America.”

With balance across the roster, improving execution, and a group that has grown together through the pathway, Victoria’s U16 team enters the Australian Youth Championships ready to test itself — and confident that its preparation will hold up when the game speeds up.

THREE THINGS TO WATCH

1. Versatility across the roster

Multiple two-way players give Victoria flexibility with lineups, pitching usage, and late-game matchups.

2. Big-game experience

Australian teams = many players have already performed on major stages.

3. Team chemistry

Repeatedly cited by players, the way this group has gelled could be a separator in tight contests.

27 December 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

Community

Meet Steve Smith: The man who is collecting every "Aussie Baseball Card Ever"

by Jena Osman

Years of Australian baseball history are preserved within four walls. Each corner of the room tells a story. Faces that span decades, leagues and continents.

For Steve Smith, collecting baseball cards isn’t just a hobby, it’s a mission.

A mission to collect the baseball card of every Australian who has played professional ball at any point, anywhere in the world.

The best part? He’s dangerously close.

This is the story behind Steve Smith and one of the wildest collections of sports memorabilia you’ll ever see.

26 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Australian Youth Championships

Preview and Rosters | Queensland at the U16 and U18 Baseball Championships

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

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

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.

26 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

- Aussies Abroad Aussies Sign Pro

Jarryd Dale signs with Kia Tigers in the Korean Baseball League (KBO)

Australian infielder Jarryd Dale has taken another major step in his professional career, signing with the KIA Tigers of the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) ahead of the 2026 season.

Dale joins the Tigers under the KBO’s Asian Player Quota Rule, becoming just the second Australian player to secure a roster spot through this pathway. Lachlan Wells signed with the LG Twins last week.

The Asian quota allows KBO clubs to sign one additional import player specifically from Asian Baseball Federation member nations outside of Korea, without that player occupying one of the club’s traditional foreign import roster slots.

This rule is designed to strengthen competitive balance across the league while building stronger baseball ties within the region.

The 25-year-old Victorian has been a standout for the Melbourne Aces in the Australian Baseball League and has developed into one of Australia’s most athletic and versatile infielders.

KIA’s interest grew following Dale’s impressive 2024–25 ABL campaign, where he posted career-best numbers and played a key leadership role.

Dale hit .381 for the Aces in 34 games in 2024-25, and earned a contract with the Orix Buffaloes minor leagues in Japan.

With Orix, he thrived and further put himself on the map. Dale hit .297 in 41 farm league games.

Known for his elite defence, speed, and contact bat, Dale has also represented Team Australia on multiple occasions, including the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

Dale spent several seasons in the U.S. minor leagues with the San Diego Padres organisation.

Congratulations, Jarryd!

23 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Community

Baseball Retention Rate outperforms national benchmarks across all age groups in Australia

Baseball Australia continues to outperform national retention benchmarks, with new data showing strong year on year participant return rates across junior, youth and adult age groups.

Retention rate is a widely used metric across sport that measures how many participants return to the same sport in the following registration year. It is considered one of the most reliable indicators of participant satisfaction, program quality and long term engagement.

Baseball Australia’s overall retention rate currently sits at 69 percent.

This figure exceeds recommended targets across all age categories and places baseball above industry standard retention rates when compared with other Australian sports.

Junior participants aged 5 to 14 recorded a retention rate of 69.15 percent, surpassing the target benchmark of 65 percent.

Youth participants aged 15 to 17 recorded a retention rate of 69.12 percent, well above the recommended target range of 55 per cent.

Adult participants aged 18 and over returned at a rate of 69.68 percent, significantly higher than the typical benchmark range of 50 to 55 percent.

These age specific targets align with benchmarks outlined in VicHealth research, which is commonly used across the sport sector to assess participation and retention performance. In every category, baseball is exceeding both target levels and broader industry expectations.

READ MORE: Baseball participation spikes 22%

High retention has occurred alongside increased baseball participation nationally. As participation numbers continue to grow across junior, youth and adult cohorts, the data shows that players are not only finding the sport but choosing to stay involved from one season to the next.

Baseball Australia acknowledges the support of the PlayWell Grant, which has played an important role in strengthening participation initiatives nationwide. Investment through PlayWell has helped enhance the quality of grassroots experiences and support programs that encourage players to return each season.

22 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

U18 World Cup pitcher Kristian Haeusler commits to Hill College

Kristian Haeusler’s baseball journey is heading stateside.

The Wanneroo Giants right-hander has committed to Hill College, where he will study Business and continue his development as a pitcher beginning with the 2026 fall baseball season.

Haeusler comes out of Western Australia and has already built a resume that spans club, national, and professional environments.

He first represented Australia as a member of the U12 National Team before later progressing to the U18 National Team, gaining valuable international experience early in his career.

Those pathway opportunities continued with selection for the U18 Baseball World Cup, as well as time competing in the Australian Baseball League with the Perth Heat.

“I’ve been watching the Australian World Cup team and Perth Heat players since I was a kid,” Haeusler said. “They’ve had a big influence on my journey and where I want to get to.”

Haeusler has starred this year with those very Heat players he idolised growing up.

He threw 4.1 shutout innings of relief over the weekend in a crucial Perth win.

Primarily a pitcher, Haeusler prides himself on his ability to disrupt hitters rather than simply overpower them.

“My strengths are being able to create defensive swings with all my pitches, leading to weak contact and strikeouts,” he said. “Having experience on the world stage with the U18 World Cup team and professional experience with the Perth Heat has helped me see the game with more knowledge and perspective.”

His pitch mix includes a fastball, sinker, slider and change-up, with continued refinement a key focus as he transitions to college baseball.

“I’m hoping to improve everything while I’m there,” Haeusler said. “But especially gaining velocity on my fastball and improving my command with my secondary pitches to allow for more strikeouts.”

But for Baseball Australia player development manager Andrew Riddell, it’s Kristian’s battle through adversity that impresses him the most.

“Kristian has overcome more than most to get to this position and it is a real credit to him, his support system, his work ethic and determination to continue pitching at a high level,” says Riddell.

He says when he first took note of Haeusler, he was showing glimpses of his ability to spin a breaking-ball and an above-average change up at the U16 Championships in 2023.

Then, Haeusler suffered a shoulder injury and had to surgery which meant missing AYC this year while he continued to rehab.

“He got back to a point even better than he was before surgery and gained an invite to the U18 national selection camp this year where he pitched so well that he was named in the team for the U18 World Cup,” says Riddell. “This showed the coaches and programs in the U.S the level he was able to pitch at and as the offers started coming in, he did a great job working through his questions for him to find the best fit. Hill has been a big supporter of Australian baseballers and it is great to see it continue with Kristian after he finishes an already successful rookie ABL season.”

Haeusler believes Hill College provides the right environment for that next step.

“I see my development growing steadily and on an incline every day,” he said. “They offer great development and an environment where I can keep improving.”

With national team experience at multiple age levels, exposure to elite international tournaments, and time in a professional league already under his belt, Haeusler arrives at college baseball well prepared for the challenges ahead.

22 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

College Baseball

2025 AYC MVP Matt Trainor commits to North Central Texas College

The 2025 Australian Youth Championship Most Valuable Player is headed to college baseball in the United States.

Matt Trainor, an outfielder and left-handed pitcher from Cronulla Sharks (NSW), has committed to North Central Texas College, becoming the ninth member of Australia’s U18 World Cup team to lock in a college opportunity since the tournament concluded in September.

Trainor will study Engineering and is scheduled to depart for the United States in August, where he will join fellow Australian Ethan Bickel at the Texas-based junior college.

North Central Texas has become a familiar landing spot for Australian talent, offering a competitive environment that values two-way athletes and provides a clear pathway to further collegiate and professional opportunities.

Trainor brings versatility on both sides of the ball. As a position player, he features strong bat-to-ball skills and improving athleticism in the outfield. On the mound, the left-hander works with a deep pitch mix consisting of a four-seam fastball, two-seam fastball, curveball, slider and splitter.

He says his strengths lie in his ability to impact the game in multiple ways.

“My bat to ball skills and my ability to pitch for outs are probably my biggest strengths,” Trainor says. “My work ethic and resilience have helped me push through challenges.”

Looking ahead to college, Trainor is clear on what he wants to develop.

“I see myself consistently getting stronger in the weight room,” he says. “Working on my pitches to improve command and break, getting faster and improving my range in the outfield, and continuing to improve my swing and approach.”

He says the goal is overall growth — physically, technically and mentally.

“I want to improve my speed, exit velocity and pitching velocity, as well as my mental approach and baseball IQ.”

Baseball Australia’s Player Development Manager Andrew Riddell says Trainor has had an incredible junior career and he’s excited to see him find a place he can “go next level.”

“He already has multiple Australian Youth Championship (AYC), an AYC MVP, a NSW State-League MVP, an U18 World-Cup, a MLB trip & an U23 World Cup Qualifiers on his resume all before finishing high-school because he is able to impact the game in so many different ways,” says Riddell.

“His elite bat-to-ball skills were tested and proven against mid-90’s arms at the U18 World Cup and he also came into the game out of the bullpen in some of the highest leverage situations that we faced and he was able to both strand inherited runners and put up multiple zeroes to give our offence a chance,” he adds. “North Central Texas is going to be a great program for Matt to keep developing on both sides of the ball and continue to impact the game in multiple different ways.”

Trainor credits a wide support network for helping him reach this point.

“All the coaching staff at the Giants, Cronulla Sharks, Petes, Baseball NSW, Baseball Australia and my school Endeavour Sports High have helped get me to where I am,” he says. “My parents have been my biggest influence. They’ve constantly pushed me to get better every day and supported me the whole way.”

National and international events played a major role in preparing him for the next step, particularly the U18 World Cup.

“I’ve played many events and tournaments over the years and they’ve all helped test and improve my skills,” Trainor says. “In particular, the U18 World Cup showed me that I can compete at an international level and that I have the skill to go and play college baseball.”

Trainor departs for the USA later in 2026.

Feature: 2025 ends with a bang - and Div 1 transfer - for North Queensland's Max Strickland

feature story by Connie Rowe

In the space of just a few weeks, he has gone from junior collegiate in Arizona, to signing with Oregon University.

“It all happened so fast,” Strickland admits.

After sharing some of his highlight reels, Strickland received a message from one of Oregon’s scouting coaches requesting a call.

The next week passed in a blur.

Phone calls from and to various coaches, more talent reels and of course a showcase of his academic records later, Strickland found himself standing on the campus of the Oregon Ducks.

While this may have all seemed to take place in the blink of an eye for Strickland, it’s actually been the manifestation of a lifetime of hard work that has led him to this moment.

Strickland grew up in Townsville as a multi-sport athlete, baseball just one of many. A career in baseball was not necessarily on his radar, he just knew he loved sports in general.

As he got older, it was the grind of baseball that kept him coming back.

The right-handed hurler, graced with mid 90mph fastballs, doubled down on his pitching career when the family moved to Brisbane.

“I am so grateful to my family for the sacrifices and opportunities they have given me,” Strickland said.

In fact, they are one of the main reasons he continues to apply and push himself to chase opportunities like his recent Oregon signing.

Now half a world away from his friends and family, still today they are his motivation to keep going.

“I keep pushing because I miss them so much,” he said.

In fact, it’s hard to say who was more excited when the news came around about the signing – Max or his mum.

“I thought she’d take it instead of me, she was that excited!” he said.

Strickland has always displayed discipline and commitment to his craft.

His junior coach Gaje McCahon credits his temperament for his career to date.

“Max was always eager, hungry, and absorbed information like a sponge,” he said.

Strickland comes with a built-in edge, according to McCahon.

“His best attribute is his competitiveness. It’s not something you can coach. It just comes naturally to him,” said McCahon.

Not afraid to work hard, Strickland has always been very self aware.

“He’s always aware of where he ranks against people, but he never lets it rock his drive to perform.”

This pure resilience holds him in good stead as he prepares for this next challenge come July 2026.

“It’s a huge opportunity, not just for baseball but for life to be a student at an institute like the University of Oregon.”

He recognises that it won’t be easy.

“Everything is really sharp in America,” he says about the drills they do. “It’s all done with intent.”

Between study and practice, Strickland has his work cut out for him. He recognises the ups and downs that come with this sport and embraces the lows as much as cherishing the highs.

Even on the other side of the world, his biggest support crew are right by his side.

Strickland credits his friends and family as his biggest driving force.

“I couldn’t ask for a better team behind me,” Strickland said.

Of all, the walk offs, the strike outs, the big stadiums, the moment he told his family the breaking news about his signing, tops the highlights of this pitcher’s career.

“To hear their reactions to the opportunity I have been blessed with was really warming.”

Standing on the Oregon Campus after the rapidfire turn of events, Strickland took a moment to soak it all in.

“There are endless life opportunities and endless connections that come with baseball,” he reflects.

His biggest piece of advice amongst all the hard work is to stop every now and then, enjoy yourself and just take in the moment.

Strickland will be studying psychology alongside his baseball at Oregon University from July 2026.

MORE OF OUR FAVOURITES FROM CONNIE ROWE

– Live from the best seats in the house: A scorer’s view of a national championship
– From Cairns to Williamsport: Daniel del Nido’s journey to the Little League World Series

17 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Women's Baseball

Roos to Join 2026 Australian Women’s Championship as sixth team in tournament

Baseball Australia has confirmed the introduction of a Roos composite squad for the 2026 Australian Women’s Championship (AWC), expanding opportunities for emerging female athletes and strengthening the depth of competition at the premier national women’s event.

The Roos replace the Queensland White development squad, marking a national approach to drawing in the next tier of talented players who narrowly missed selection for their home state. The roster, which will be confirmed in 2026, will feature players from across the country.

The team will compete exclusively in the Open Women’s division — with no Roos team planned for the Australian Youth Women’s Championship.

The addition follows the pathway framework already established with the ACT Roos at the Australian Youth Championships, ensuring that high-potential players from across the country continue to access meaningful national-level experience as participation in women’s baseball grows.

Why the Roos?

With women’s baseball numbers rising nationally, Baseball Australia’s goal is to ensure every Australian Championship is as competitive and developmentally valuable as possible.

The Roos model allows selectors to bring together the next-best available talent from across all states, creating an environment that raises the overall standard of the AWC and offers valuable exposure for up-and-coming athletes.

“This pathway allows us to draw upon the next best players who just missed out on selection for their home state from across the country to keep improving the quality of the Australian Women’s Championship,” said Michael Crooks, Baseball Australia’s Performance Pathways & Player Development Manager.

“With numbers in the women’s game increasing across the country, this is a great opportunity for those up-and-coming players to gain valuable AWC experience.”

Queensland will still enter a single women’s state team at the Australian Women’s Championship but will be moving away from the Queensland White development side.

The shift opens new nationally aligned opportunities through the Baseball Australia Roos program, while Baseball Queensland expands its pathway with a new U18 Women’s Team who will play in Japan, and international development initiatives.

“These changes are about creating more meaningful opportunities and stronger long-term pathways for female athletes,” Baseball Queensland CEO Gareth Jones said.

How This Strengthens Australian Baseball

The timing of the initiative is crucial. The first round of the 2027 Women’s World Cup will take place later in 2026, making the AWC a vital proving ground for national team selection and preparation.

“An increase in the quality of the Australian Women’s Championship will provide more competitive games across the event,” Crooks said. “That’s not only a better competitive experience but also important preparation for the first World Cup stage. It also provides exposure to players transitioning into their state representative program and helps bridge the gap between Youth Championships and the senior AWC.”

Crooks confirmed the model will not extend to the youth age groups in 2026.

“At the youth level, we’ll be sticking with state-versus-state without the Roos,” he said. “The composite model is specifically for the Women’s Championship, where it best strengthens the event and provides that additional layer of opportunity.”

The Roos Women’s squad will begin assembling ahead of the 2026 Australian Women’s Championship, with further details — including schedule and roster structure — to be announced soon.

Look and Feel

The Roos Women’s team will have its own distinct identity at the 2026 AWC.

The design will feature:
– Black Roos logo on a black cap
– Orange jersey design
– A look and feel that stands apart while still fitting seamlessly within the national championship environment

This presentation echoes the broader Roos brand but reflects a tailored aesthetic for the women’s space.

15 December 2025 By Eric Balnar

By Eric Balnar

Australian Youth Championships

Letter from Steve Dimopoulos MP, Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, ahead of 2026 AYC

On behalf of the Victorian Government, I’d like to welcome you to the Australian Youth Baseball Championships.

We’re proud to have secured Australia’s premier youth baseball tournament in Melbourne for the next three years thanks to our Significant Sporting Events Program, which helps organisations to deliver national and international sporting events.

The Victorian Government’s support through the Significant Sporting Events Program highlights our ongoing commitment to hosting elite youth sporting events that bring communities together, support grassroots development, and drive local economic benefit.

I’m so proud the program has secured more than 1150 events for Victoria, with more than half hosted in regional Victoria, boosting local jobs and economies, and showcasing our iconic regions.

The collaboration between joint hosts Essendon Baseball Club, Preston Pirates and Port Melbourne Baseball Club shows just how important baseball is to Victoria.

We have an exciting 9 days of action ahead of us, including two marquee national titles — the Under 16 and Under 18 divisions, with competition spanning across three suburbs.

It’s fantastic we can welcome the future of baseball to Melbourne, and we’re thrilled to see the next generation of talent compete here over the coming years, continuing the city’s legacy as one of the greatest sporting capitals in the world.

With the championships just a short tram or train ride from our CBD, there are many sights to see while you’re here. Enjoy the world famous Australian Open and see the best tennis players in the world compete for glory. You could also explore our world-famous city laneways, taste some of the best coffee in the world, or experience the latest collections at the National Gallery of Victoria.

For visitors to our wonderful state, I encourage you to also explore the many attractions and wonderful restaurant options Melbourne has to offer, both in and around the city.

I wish you all the best for your time in Melbourne.

And to all the teams – best of luck!

Steve Dimopoulos MP
Member for Oakleigh
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events

12 December 2025 By Staff Writers

By Staff Writers

Community Women's Baseball

24 hours for Barky: Behind the 24-hour baseball game in Australia for a great cause

by Jena Osman

Players stretched out they’re aching legs, as they waited for the next pitch, each step sweeping the dirt, feet barely lifting off the ground.

The only light came from floodlights that threw long shadows across the pitch. Exhaustion mixed with the dark sky, made it almost impossible to find the ball.

While the rest of Melbourne slept, while Springvale baseball club women were deep into a baseball game. A game with no finish line expect sunrise.

Yet no one complained, and no one thought to stop.

Because this wasn’t just a baseball marathon

This was for Barky.

Beyond Blue for Barky

Six years ago, Beyond Blue for Barky was born and has since become an annual event.

It came out of a place of tragedy. At just 29-years-old, five-time Emerald Jacinda Barclay passed away. She was both a legendary football and baseball player.

Jacinda ‘Barky’ Barclay left a huge mark on the sporting community, partially her friends and teammates at Springvale Baseball Club.

To honour her legacy and raise awareness for mental health, the club has partnered with Beyond Blue, turning November 15th into a signature day for the club.

Beyond Blue is a charity that provides support for people experiencing mental health challenges. The event promotes people to speak up, showing them that they are not alone.

Over the past six years the club has raised just over $22,000, with all proceeds going to Beyond Blue charity.

At the heart of it all is Simone Wearne, one of Australia’s great baseball players – a multiple time national champion and Emerald.

In previous yeas, the event featured anything Barky would have loved. Corn on the cob after their game as Barky and Wearne shared a love of corn.

Another year – it was ‘beers and beats’. You guessed it – the community enjoyed music and beers.

However, this year Wearne wanted to do something that truly reflected Barkys outrageous, Joyful personality.

Something a little crazier.

Something like a 24-hour baseball game.

That’s right, 24 continuous hours of straight baseball.

“It was a double whammy, I thought let’s do something outrageous because that’s what she would have loved and let’s raise way more only in the one day,” Wearne said.

The game was held at Melbourne Ballpark on November 15-16 and raised just over $22,000.

It’s the first 24-hour game that we know in Australia, and the second women’s game we can find since 2003 in Chicago (organised by Baseball Vic member Rob Novotny, nonetheless)

In one day, they raised more than what they had over 5 years.

After huge success, Wearne laughed that she’s already feeling the pressure for 2026.

“Next year I don’t know what we’re going to do, maybe we’ll play in water,” she joked.

Planning the impossible

To people like us, 24 hours of baseball sounds impossible, but to those who knew Barky, it just made sense.

The first person on Wearne call list was Barkys close friend and former teammate, Mandy.

“I told her [about the 24-hour game] and she said oh yeh… that’s crazy, but let’s do it because Barky would love it,” Wearne said.

Apart from the game, a lot of time went into planning, scheduling and rostering.

Rostering was organised via a google form which allowed players to pick a 2-hour time slot in the game. Barky was a huge advocate for women’s sport, so it was only fitting that the game welcomed any registered women’s player to play.

“More then 70 girls played, which she would have loved,” said Wearne. “We had people turn up just to play for 2:30am to 4:30am.”

People didn’t just show up to play, they showed up for each other. What started as a roster in a google form quickly turned into a steady stream of players, rivals, coaches, teammates, coming through the gates at all hours of the night.

“People brought caravans and slept in the carpark in case we needed a few fill ins,” said Wearne. “A player who retired 10 years ago came and pitched 11 innings; it was unbelievable.”

The community that never slept

By midnight, Melbourne Ballpark felt less like a stadium and more like a campfire refused to burn out.

Players shared stories of Barky on the field while friends shared coffee on the benches.

“Some of the girls were struggling to run or couldn’t throw well 10 or 12 hours in, but we just kept going because we knew we had to,” Wearne said.

Not only did Wearne lead the event, but she also played 17.5 of the 24 hours.

Players organised pledges from $10 an hour to $200.

Raising $2000 on her own, Wearne joked that she almost tricked people into pledging by the hour.

“When they saw 17.5 hours, they were abit worried” Wearne laughed, “but they all paid, it was awesome.”

Barky’s legacy lives on

When legs grew heavy and arms weak, Barky’s sprit remained stronger than ever.

Wearne’s face lights up the room when Barky is mentioned. She even still carries the nickname “Granny May,” which Barky had given her years ago.

About a month before the 24-hour game, Wearne and her teammates found themselves wrapped in memories of long flights, hotel hallways, traveling the world with Barky.

“She’d be up late running around the hallways before a game and id be in bed getting my rest,” Wearne laughed.

During the game, those memories didn’t feel distant at all, she was right there with them.

“We could kind of hear her talking to us, saying come on guys, you need to make this happen,” Wearne said.

When fatigued kicked in, Wearne could almost hear her checky voice, ‘you can’t do this Granny May, your too old.’

Adrenaline took over.

“We physically found a way.”

The sun finally rose over Melbourne Ballpark after a night that felt endless and electric.

Emotion overtook the girl exhausted girls.

“Everyone just sort of broke down and went oh my goodness did we just do that, how cool is that” Wearne said.

From close friends of Barky, to players from rival clubs to people who had never even heard her name. They were all brought together for the same cause.

“We honoured Barky and celebrated her but also people are learning about who she was and that’s even more important.”

Not only was money raised for Beyond Blue, but the day created a space for conversations that too often stay hidden. A space for people to feel safe, supported and reminded that they are never alone.

Barkys legacy now stretches far beyond the diamond. Its paving the way for people to ask for help and to speak up to say ‘I’m struggling’ without shame or stigma.

“In 2025 we have to really amplify that we want people to talk and not to be suffering in silence,” Wearne said.

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