Baseball Queensland is thrilled to celebrate Max Durrington’s incredible achievement. At just 17, Max from Surfers Paradise Baseball Club has signed a significant contract with The Athletics which comes with a signing bonus believed to be over seven figures (AUD) – one of the largest for a first professional contract in Australian baseball history.

Max has always been around the game, growing up playing baseball with his Dad in Queensland and participating in Baseball Queensland programs. He first played competitive baseball as an eight-year-old at Mudgeeraba Red Sox Baseball Club where he played Rookie Ball and Little League.  He then moved to Surfers Paradise Baseball Club at eleven. Max has represented Queensland at the U16 and U18 national championships and has been a part of Baseball Queensland’s Performance Pathway programs.

His talent was first noticed by Athletics scout Dan Betreen at the 2022 U16 Championships. Max’s performance at national events made him one of ten Australians invited to an MLB select trip to play in front of scouts and colleges in the United States in 2023.  Max made his A-Grade debut in the Greater Brisbane League at just 15-years-old in 2022-23.  He finished the 2023-24 season second on the team with a .400 batting average in 33 games. Max led the team with 20 stolen bases, while also chipping in four triples. 

He says his relationship with Surfers Paradise infielder Andy Cosgrove played a big role in his development.  “We would compete for who could have the most triples and stolen bases,” says Max. “Andy is a former professional baseball and is very athletic. He pushes me a lot.”

The drive, work ethic, and talent were noticed by Baseball Queensland Performance Pathway manager, Shayne Watson.

“Since entering the BQ programs four years ago, you could easily identify Max’s drive & ambition which has led to this day. Not only is he a special talent, but he’s highly motivated and a great person in a very supportive family,” he says.

“He’s drawn a lot of attention from scouts and college recruiters. I’ve been in a fortunate position to be part of Max’s development and witnessing his journey. I’m positive he will thrive in the Athletics system and I will enjoy watching his journey.

Your Baseball Queensland family is incredibly proud of you, Max. Here’s to your continued success and the exciting future ahead!

Read more here at Baseball.com.au

Story by Eric Balnar / Baseball Australia

We are delighted to introduce our outstanding coordinators and coaches, each bringing specialised expertise and a strong commitment to nurturing young athletes. These professionals are devoted to promoting the growth and progress of our participants, ensuring they receive exceptional guidance and support. With varied backgrounds in coaching and player development, our coordinators provide a holistic and thorough approach to training.

Their collective experience spans local, national, and international levels, allowing them to offer valuable insights and advanced techniques. Our coordinators’ dedication to excellence and player development will be a cornerstone of the Emerging Athlete Program, helping each young athlete maximise their potential and achieve their goals.  

For more information, visit:  IGNITE YOUR BASEBALL JOURNEY WITH OUR EMERGING ATHLETE PROGRAM (EAP)

Don’t miss out on this perfect program to ignite your baseball journey for the 2024/2025 summer season! Spots are strictly limited, so REGISTER NOW to secure your place!

Introducing our distinguished coordinators and coaches: 

Sunshine Coast

Coordinator: Nick Bachono 

Developing his baseball skills starting at the Mooloolaba Sharks, Nick Bachono went on to play college baseball at Trinidad State Junior College and Oklahoma Panhandle State. Nick now coaches with the Brisbane Bandits and Baseball Queensland Women’s Programs. His experience and dedication make him a vital part of our team.  

Program Coaches: Eli Jones 
Dates: Begins 31st July 
Location:  Mudjimba Baseball Club, 701 David Low Way, Pacific Paradise QLD 4564 
Time: Wednesdays 4:30PM – 6:30PM 

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Gold Coast

Coordinator:  Martin Waters 

A long-term coach with Gold Coast Baseball and former Baseball Queensland U16 Coach at the Australian Youth Championships, Martin Waters brings extensive experience to the Emerging Athlete Program. His involvement in the Baseball Queensland Youth Women’s, Development, and Open Women’s Programs showcases his dedication to fostering talent across various levels. Martin’s expertise and commitment will be instrumental in guiding our emerging athletes to reach their full potential. 

Program Coaches: Daniel Turner 

Dates: Begins 27th July 
Location:  Runaway Bay Dolphins, Paradise Point (2 weeks) / Nerang Cardinals (3 weeks),  /  1xlocation TBC & All Stars, Hendra (Week 7) 
Time:  Saturdays 9:00am – 11:00am 

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North Brisbane

*Less than 10 spots remaining*

Coordinator:  David West 

Recent champion coach at the Australian Youth Intermediate League and Padres Junior Director of Coaching, David West brings a wealth of coaching expertise to the Brisbane North Region. His commitment to excellence and his ability to foster player development will be invaluable in guiding our emerging athletes.  

Program Coaches: Eli Jones  

Dates: Begins 27th July 
Location: Redcliffe Padres, Redcliffe & All Stars, Hendra (Week 7) 
Time:  Saturdays, 9:00AM – 11:00AM 

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Central Brisbane

Coordinator: Luca Rostagno 

Hailing from the Windsor Royals Baseball Club, Luca Rostagno is a dedicated Brisbane Metro Coach. With experience as a Futures League U18 and Women’s Coach, as well as a member of the Open Women’s Maroon Coaching staff, Luca brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the Emerging Athlete Program. His commitment to player development and his expertise across various levels of competition will be invaluable in nurturing the potential of our emerging athletes. 

Program Coaches: Matt Watson & Cooper Thomson 

Dates: Begins 27th July 
Location: All Stars, Bannister Park, Hendra 
Time: Saturdays 9:00AM-11:00AM  

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South West Brisbane

*Less than 10 spots remaining*

Coordinator:  Lyndsey Campbell 

Coaching at the ABL Women’s Showcase with the Brisbane Bandits and a current pitcher for the Queensland Women’s team, Lyndsey Campbell brings invaluable knowledge and experience to the program. Her insights from both coaching and playing at a high level will be instrumental in guiding the development of our emerging athletes. 

Dates: Begins 27th July 
Location:  Ipswich Musketeers, Tivoli / Indians, Runcorn / Redlands Rays, Capalaba (2 weeks per location), & All Stars, Hendra (Week 7) 
Time: Saturdays 9:00AM-11:00AM 

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Youth Girls

Coordinator:  Noel Tate 

Noel Tate has been a key contributor to Baseball Queensland’s High Performance Programs for the past four years. As a central figure in the women’s development space, Noel has served as the assistant coach of the Queensland White team at the Australian Women’s Championships. Additionally, he is the Female Coordinator for both Brisbane North and Narangba Demons, where he plays a pivotal role in fostering talent and promoting female participation in baseball. Noel’s extensive experience and dedication to player development make him an invaluable asset to the Emerging Athlete Program. 

Program Coaches: Sam Sullivan, Emma Tate & David Paddison 

Dates: Begins 27th July 
Location:   All Stars, Bannister Park, Hendra 
Time:  Saturdays 2:00PM – 4:00PM 

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In addition to our amazing coordinators, we are excited to welcome esteemed guest coaches who will join us throughout the season. These guest coaches include former professional players, elite trainers, and experienced mentors who will share their invaluable knowledge and insights. Their contributions will enhance the program, offering diverse perspectives and advanced techniques.

Our guest coaches are:

Lisa Norrie: A trailblazer in Australian baseball, Lisa Norrie became the first female coach in the Australian Baseball League when she joined the Brisbane Bandits as an assistant coach in 2017. With a background in softball and extensive experience coaching the Queensland women’s baseball team, Lisa has also been an assistant coach for the Australian women’s national team. Her contributions to the sport include managing the Queensland Women’s Team and working as a guest coach for the Oakland A’s instructional league. Lisa’s pioneering efforts and dedication to player development continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations in baseball.

Molly Paddison: An emerging talent in Australian baseball, Molly Paddison has made a significant impact in her young career. As the MVP of the 2023 Australian Youth Women’s Championship, Molly led the Queensland team to an undefeated record and a gold medal victory. Her prowess on both sides of the ball has earned her recognition and multiple awards, including the Youth Women’s MVP at the 2023 Baseball Queensland Awards. Molly’s commitment to excellence and her inspiring performance continue to set her apart as a rising star in the sport.

Daniel Nilsson: Daniel Nilsson has a robust background in Australian baseball, having been a key player in the Australian Junior Teams. His professional career includes significant stints with both the Adelaide Bite and Brisbane Bandits in the Australian Baseball League. Known for his versatility as a pitcher and outfielder, Daniel has shown remarkable adaptability and resilience throughout his career. Daniel’s experience and dedication make him an invaluable asset to the Emerging Athlete Program.

Jordon Thomson: Jordon Thomson is a pivotal figure within the Windsor Royals and Brisbane Metro baseball, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the Emerging Athlete Program. Having played for Miles Community College in the United States, Jordon developed a strong foundation in baseball that he has carried into his professional career with the Brisbane Bandits. Jordon’s extensive playing experience and dedication to player development make him an invaluable asset to our program.

Neal Ragau: Neal Ragau serves as the Head Coach for the Baseball Queensland Women’s Development program. With six years of involvement in the performance pathway, Neal has successfully filled both head coach and assistant coach roles for Queensland teams at national tournaments. His commitment extends beyond state-level coaching, as he is also actively involved in coaching at both club and regional levels. Neal’s extensive experience and dedication to developing female athletes in baseball make him an essential part of our Emerging Athlete Program. 

For more information on the program, visit:  IGNITE YOUR BASEBALL JOURNEY WITH OUR EMERGING ATHLETE PROGRAM (EAP)

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Each item reflects our commitment to quality and the baseball community.

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