CAESAR GARDINER, a key player in Baseball Queensland’s U18 Roster, is gearing up for the AYC next year. His journey to the top has been filled with amazing achievements, showcasing his strong dedication and outstanding talent.

At Earnshaw State College, Gardiner is part of the Baseball Academy, a special program at the college that helps students improve their baseball skills while following the national curriculum. Recently he won several awards at the school including the Australian Platinum Sporting Award, the Excellence in Baseball Award and was also named Bruce Cramb Senior School Sportsperson of the Year.

His success isn’t just local. Gardiner was named Baseball Queensland’s 2023 U16 Hitter of the Year, was named in the School Sport All Australian Team and was part of the National U16 camp in Canberra this year. His love for the sport promises a bright future as he continues to climb higher in his baseball journey.

We spoke to Gardiner about his love for baseball.

“When I think about baseball, the first thing that springs to mind is the friendships and enduring memories I’ve built while playing the sport,” Gardiner fondly reflects, highlighting the profound connections fostered through baseball.  “My favourite thing about baseball is hitting and the constant challenge to improve every time I step up to the plate or take my position in the field.”  

Looking ahead, Gardiner confidently shares,

“Yes, I still envision myself playing baseball in five years time, whether professionally or for a college overseas, perhaps in America or Japan. Baseball will always be a part of my life.”  

With his outstanding skills, unyielding passion, and a robust support system, Caesar Gardiner remains a shining star in Australian baseball, destined for a bright future in the sport he loves.

Baseball Queensland staff, Daniel (last week) and Luca (this week) are out on the road with the South West Indigenous Network Trax sports education tour! From Surat to Roma, Yuleba, Wullumbilla, Goondiwindi, Chinchilla and Dalby, they introduced students to the fundamentals of our sport and how fun baseball can be ⚾

These tours mean the world to small and remote schools, offering kids a rare chance to try new sports and receive top coaching. For a week, primary school students enjoy quality coaching, inclusivity, and improved well-being through physical activity.

But it’s not just about the kids! The tours provide workshops and training for teachers and administrators, supporting ongoing community sports participation.

Supported by state and national sporting bodies, SWIN’s 12 tour programs, funded by the Department of Social Services, are reaching 61 communities. It’s not just sports; it’s about empowering rural areas with quality sporting experiences.

For more information on SWIN, visit https://www.swin.org.au/

Photo credit: from SWIN Facebook Page

In a heartwarming tribute to an individual who has dedicated over half a century to the world of baseball in Queensland, Baseball Queensland proudly welcomes Tony Lynch as its newest Life Member.

Tony’s remarkable journey through the sport has been nothing short of extraordinary, and it is with great honour and unanimous support from the Brisbane South Region that we recognise his outstanding contributions.

Tony Lynch’s illustrious baseball odyssey commenced in 1958 when he first stepped onto Holloway Field, proudly wearing the Pepsi Pirates’ colours (now known as the Windsor Royals). Little did the baseball community know that this marked the beginning of a legendary career.

Throughout his tenure, Tony achieved milestones that continue to inspire and resonate with all who share a passion for the game. As a player, he represented Queensland with distinction in the following years:

• 1962 & 1963: U16 Queensland Team
• 1964: A grade debut for Windsor Royals
• 1967, 1968, 1970, 1971, and 1973: Queensland senior team in the Claxton Shield

However, Tony’s contributions extended far beyond the diamond. He transitioned into a dedicated coach, nurturing young talents and instilling the values of teamwork and determination. His coaching career included:

• Coaching at Indians baseball club from 1985 to 1998
• Playing for the Musketeers Expos Masters team at the Australian Masters in 1996
• Serving on the coaching staff of the University of Queensland Women’s softball team from 1998 to 2000
• Playing for the Interport Masters from 1999 to 2009
• Being a part of the U16 Queensland coaching staff from 2000 to 2003
• Heading the Algester State School Softball team as the head coach from 2015 to 2019

Tony’s accolades didn’t stop there. In 2019, he was rightfully awarded Life Membership at Indians Baseball Club, and in 2020, he received the Member of the Year title from the same club. He has also played a vital role in guiding Brisbane South Teams in State Titles, coaching from U8 to U16 levels.

Tony Lynch’s commitment to the sport is best described as unwavering. He continues to actively contribute to Indians and Brisbane South, where he plays a pivotal role in the rejuvenation of junior teams. His wealth of knowledge, dedication, and his enduring love for the game make him an exceptional addition to our special committee.

Baseball Queensland is immensely proud to grant Tony Lynch the Life Membership, a well-deserved recognition for a lifetime dedicated to the sport. We honour his exemplary service and celebrate his positive impact on the Queensland baseball community.

Thank you, Tony Lynch, for your remarkable journey, and we look forward to many more years of your invaluable contributions to the sport we all hold dear.

For the full list of Life Members, please Click Here.