News - Baseball Queensland

Friendship Players Registration Open

Registration is Now Open for Friendship Players in the 2023 Women, Youth Women, and Girls’ State Titles

Baseball Queensland is delighted to announce that registration is now open for individuals interested in participating as Friendship Players in the 2023 Women, Youth Women, and Girls’ State Titles scheduled for December.

Friendship Players are individuals who want to participate in these important events but do not currently have a team to join. This registration opportunity allows these players to express their interest and potentially be matched with existing teams, promoting diversity within the sport.

Being a Friendship Player can offer significant benefits, both to the individual players and the teams. For individuals, it’s an opportunity to showcase their skills and be a part of the fun and inclusive atmosphere that these state titles offer. For teams, it’s a chance to fill roster gaps and strengthen their line-up with capable players, making it a game for all.

This initiative not only promotes individual skill development but also fosters camaraderie within the baseball community, reflecting the inclusive spirit of the sport. It’s an excellent opportunity for players to connect with fellow enthusiasts, regardless of their background, and share their passion for the game.

To register as a Friendship Player and be part of this exciting event, please visit our website and follow the registration instructions. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be a part of the 2023 Women, Youth Women, and Girls’ State Titles, where the emphasis is on making it a game for all.

For more information and registration details, please visit Friendship Player Registration

Women’s State Titles: 8-10 December 2023

Youth Women & Girls’ State Titles: 11-12 December 2023

Shayne Watson named as Brisbane Bandits Manager

Exciting news for Queensland’s baseball scene, Baseball Queensland’s Performance Program Manager, Shayne ‘Wato’ Watson, has been named as the new Manager of the Brisbane Bandits, as long-time manager Dave Nilsson will depart for the US in 2024. This significant move is an important moment between Baseball Queensland and the Bandits, making our relationship even stronger and promising to improve the sport’s presence in Queensland. Wato’s work and contribution within Baseball Queensland and Baseball Australia is inspiring, and his passion for the sport comes through when he is coaching and guiding athletes, ensuring that they reach their full potential.

Baseball Queensland’s CEO, Gareth Jones, expressed his enthusiasm for this news saying, “Shayne’s appointment as the Manager of the Brisbane Bandits is a game-changer for Queensland baseball. We believe Shayne’s exemplary work ethic, leadership and almost two decades’ experience coaching performance athletes will give both the Brisbane Bandits and Baseball Queensland the best opportunity to achieve lofty goals, inspiring young talent and driving us towards new horizons.”

With Wato at the helm and the relationship between Baseball Queensland and the Brisbane Bandits stronger than ever, we can look forward to exciting times ahead. Together, we are poised to write a new chapter in the Queensland baseball story, making it a sport that continues to captivate and inspire.

Read more about the announcement here: https://brisbanebandits.com.au/news/bandits-name-shayne-watson-as-manager/

Photo: Brisbane Bandits

Monthly BQ Awards

Baseball Queensland’s monthly awards

In our continuous effort to acknowledge and celebrate excellence within the realm of baseball in Queensland, we are delighted to introduce the Monthly BQ Awards. This initiative represents our commitment to recognising exceptional achievements, sportsmanship, and contributions that significantly impact the baseball community.

The Monthly BQ Awards will serve as a platform to honour those individuals who stand out through their outstanding performance and dedication. We invite all members of our community to participate by nominating deserving candidates.

One of the unique features of this program is that each monthly award recipient automatically becomes a nominee for the prestigious Annual BQ Awards. This means that those recognised on a monthly basis will have the opportunity to be acknowledged at a broader scale during our annual celebration.

The Baseball Queensland Awards initiative is designed to express our deep appreciation for the unwavering commitment and substantial contributions made by individuals to further the growth, organisation, and overall success of baseball in Queensland. It is our way of highlighting excellence within our community.

SEPTEMBER Nominations close 24th October at 5pm.

BQ AWARD CATEGORIES

COACH OF THE month

The Baseball Queensland Coach of the Month Award is designed to recognise and honour outstanding coaches who have made significant contributions to the development and success of baseball in Queensland. This prestigious award aims to acknowledge coaches who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, sportsmanship, and dedication to their athletes and the sport of baseball. Nominations for this award are open to coaches of all levels within the state, from grassroots to elite, who have achieved remarkable results during the eligibility period.

UMPIRE OF THE month

The Baseball Queensland Umpire of the Month Award aims to recognise and honour the significant contributions made by umpires to the sport of baseball in Queensland. This prestigious award seeks to acknowledge umpires who have consistently demonstrated exceptional skills, professionalism, and dedication to ensuring fair play and sportsmanship during baseball games. Nominations for this award are open to umpires at all levels of involvement, including local, regional, and state-level competitions.

SCORER OF THE month

The Baseball Queensland Scorer of the Month Award aims to recognise and honour the invaluable contributions made by scorers to the sport of baseball in Queensland. This prestigious award seeks to acknowledge individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skills, accuracy, and dedication in recording and maintaining accurate scorekeeping records during baseball games. Nominations for this award are open to scorers at all levels of involvement, including local club scorers and those involved in regional and state-level competitions.

ADMINISTRATOR OF the month

The Baseball Queensland Administrator of the Month Award aims to recognise and honour exceptional administrators who have made significant contributions to the growth, organisation, and overall success of baseball in Queensland. This prestigious award seeks to acknowledge administrators who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, efficiency, and dedication to the sport. Nominations for this award are open to administrators involved at all levels within the state, from local clubs to regional and state organisations.

VOLUNTEER OF THE month

The Baseball Queensland Volunteer of the Month Award aims to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions made by volunteers to the sport of baseball in Queensland. This prestigious award seeks to acknowledge individuals who have selflessly dedicated their time, skills, and efforts to support and promote baseball within the community. Nominations for this award are open to volunteers at all levels of involvement, including club volunteers, event volunteers, and those contributing at the state level.

NOMINATE NOW!

Coach of the Month Nominations

Nominations for the Coach of the Month award are open to coaches of all levels within the state, from grassroots to elite, who have achieved remarkable results during the month.

Criteria for Nomination:

- 1. Player Development: Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to the holistic development of their players, fostering growth not only in technical skills but also in character, leadership, and personal growth. A successful coach will be dedicated to nurturing the potential of each individual athlete.
  2. Coaching Performance and Results: Nominees must have achieved notable success in coaching during the previous month period. This includes accomplishments such as significant improvement in individual athletes’ skills, team performance, tournament wins, and league championships.
  3. Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct: Coaches nominated for this award must exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship, fair play, and ethical conduct both on and off the field. They should serve as positive role models for their athletes and promote a respectful and inclusive sporting environment.
  4. Leadership and Communication: The nominated coach should exhibit strong leadership qualities, effectively communicating with players, coaching staff, and parents/guardians. They should be able to motivate and inspire their team and create a supportive and cohesive coaching environment.
  5. Innovation and Adaptability: Coaches who have shown creativity, innovation, and adaptability in their coaching methods and strategies are encouraged to be nominated. The ability to adjust to different circumstances and challenges is a crucial aspect of effective coaching.
  6. Commitment to the Sport: Nominees should demonstrate a long-term commitment to baseball in Queensland. This includes active involvement in promoting and developing the sport at various levels, from grassroots to representative teams.
  7. Coaching Accreditation and Education: Coaches who have pursued continuous education and professional development in coaching and related fields should be recognised.

Umpire of the Month Nominations

Nominations for the Umpire of the Month award are open to umpires at all levels of involvement, including local, regional, and state-level competitions.

Criteria for Nomination:

Umpiring Competence: Nominees should possess a high level of umpiring competence, including a thorough understanding of baseball rules, mechanics, and positioning on the field.
Consistency and Accuracy: The nominated umpire should exhibit consistency and accuracy in making calls and decisions throughout the season or relevant period of involvement.
Sportsmanship and Communication: Umpires nominated for this award must exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship, professionalism, and effective communication with players, coaches, and fellow officials.
Adaptability and Composure: The nominated umpire should demonstrate adaptability and composure in handling challenging or intense game situations.
Commitment to Professional Development: Umpires who have pursued continuous professional development and education in umpiring or related fields should be acknowledged for their dedication to improving their skills and knowledge.
Contribution to the Baseball Community: Nominees should have contributed significantly to the baseball community through their umpiring efforts, positively impacting the game experience for players, coaches, and spectators.
Mentorship and Leadership: Umpires who have taken the initiative to mentor and support other aspiring umpires, contributing to the development and growth of umpiring within the baseball community, should be considered for nomination.
Positive Attitude and Enthusiasm: The nominated umpire should exhibit a positive attitude and enthusiasm for the sport, serving as a role model for others in the baseball community.
Testimonials and Recommendations: Nominations should be supported by testimonials and recommendations from players, coaches, fellow officials, and administrators, highlighting the nominee’s exceptional umpiring skills and contributions.

administrator of the Month Nominations

Nominations for the Administrator of the Month award are open to administrators involved at all levels within the state, from local clubs to regional and state organisations.

Criteria for Nomination:

Organisational Excellence: Nominees must have demonstrated exceptional organisational skills and effectiveness in their roles. This includes successful planning and execution of baseball events, tournaments, leagues, and other activities that have contributed to the advancement of the sport in Queensland.
Leadership and Communication: Administrators nominated for this award should exhibit strong leadership qualities, fostering a positive and collaborative environment for all stakeholders, including players, coaches, parents, officials, and volunteers. Effective communication and transparency are crucial aspects of successful administration.
Promotion and Development of Baseball: Nominees should have shown a strong commitment to promoting and developing baseball within their community or region. This may include initiatives to attract new players, support existing clubs, and establish partnerships with local schools or community organisations.
Innovative Approaches: Administrators who have implemented innovative strategies or programs to enhance the overall experience of players, coaches, and spectators should be recognised. This may include advancements in technology, marketing, or community engagement.
Volunteer and Resource Management: The nominated administrator should have demonstrated effective management of volunteers, resources, and finances to ensure the sustainable growth and success of baseball activities.
Inclusivity and Diversity: Nominees should have actively worked to promote inclusivity and diversity within the baseball community, creating opportunities for underrepresented groups to participate and thrive in the sport.
Commitment to Professional Development: While not mandatory, administrators who have pursued continuous professional development and education in sports administration or related fields should be acknowledged for their dedication to improving their skills and knowledge.
Testimonials and Recommendations: Nominations should be supported by testimonials and recommendations from stakeholders within the baseball community, highlighting the positive impact of the nominee’s administrative efforts.

scorer of the Month Nominations

Nominations for the Scorer of the Month award are open to scorers at all levels of involvement, including local club scorers and those involved in regional and state-level competitions.

Criteria for Nomination:

Scorekeeping Proficiency: Nominees should possess a high level of scorekeeping proficiency, accurately recording game statistics, plays, and other essential details during baseball games.
Attention to Detail: The nominated scorer should exhibit excellent attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in all recorded information related to the game.
Knowledge of Scorekeeping Rules: Scorers nominated for this award must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of baseball scorekeeping rules and guidelines.
Consistency and Reliability: Nominees should have a history of consistent and reliable scorekeeping performance throughout the season or relevant period of involvement.
Adaptability: The nominated scorer should showcase the ability to adapt to various game situations, keeping accurate records even during fast-paced or high-pressure games.
Support for Umpires and Officials: Scorers who actively collaborate with umpires and officials, assisting them with scorekeeping-related matters, should be recognized for their valuable contributions.
Contribution to the Baseball Community: Nominees should have contributed significantly to the baseball community through their scorekeeping efforts, positively impacting the overall game experience for players, coaches, and spectators.
Leadership and Mentoring: Scorers who have taken the initiative to mentor and support other aspiring scorers, contributing to the development and growth of scorekeeping within the baseball community, should be considered for nomination.
Testimonials and Recommendations: Nominations should be supported by testimonials and recommendations from players, coaches, officials, and fellow scorers, highlighting the nominee’s exceptional scorekeeping skills and contributions.

VOLUNTEER of the Month Nominations

Nominations for the Volunteer of the Month award are open to volunteers at all levels of involvement, including club volunteers, event volunteers, and those contributing at the state level.

Criteria for Nomination:

Length of Service and Dedication: Nominees should have a significant history of volunteer service in the baseball community in Queensland. Their commitment and dedication to the sport over time will be considered in the evaluation process.
Impact and Contribution: The nominated volunteer must have made a tangible and positive impact on the baseball community. This includes contributions to the development of players, coaches, teams, events, and the overall growth of baseball in the community.
Leadership and Initiative: Volunteers who have demonstrated leadership qualities and taken the initiative to implement programs, projects, or events that have benefited the baseball community should be recognised.
Sportsmanship and Integrity: Nominees should embody the values of sportsmanship, fairness, and integrity, serving as positive role models for players, coaches, and fellow volunteers.
Inclusivity and Support: Volunteers who actively promote inclusivity and support within the baseball community, creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for all participants, are eligible for nomination.
Collaboration and Teamwork: The nominated volunteer should have a record of collaborating effectively with other volunteers, club members, coaches, and officials to achieve common goals and enhance the baseball experience.
Innovation and Creativity: Volunteers who have demonstrated innovative and creative approaches to solving problems, improving processes, or enhancing the overall baseball experience should be recognised.
Positive Attitude and Enthusiasm: Nominees should exhibit a positive attitude and enthusiasm that motivates and inspires others within the baseball community.
Testimonials and Recommendations: Nominations should be supported by testimonials and recommendations from stakeholders within the baseball community, highlighting the positive impact of the volunteer’s efforts.

All Stars to host Women, Youth Women & Girls State Titles

Baseball Queensland is excited to announce that All Stars Baseball Club will once again host the 2023 Women, Youth Women and Girls State Titles. This fantastic event has found its home at the All Stars Baseball Club for several years, and it’s more than just a baseball competition; it’s a celebration of the sport and a positive atmosphere for the entire Queensland baseball community.

This year’s event is set to create a fun and positive atmosphere, bringing together baseball enthusiasts from across Queensland. It’s not just about competition; it’s about fostering camaraderie and a love for the game! In addition to our local teams, we extend a warm welcome to interstate and international teams to participate. This event is a great opportunity to meet and compete with baseball enthusiasts from various regions, making it a truly diverse and exciting experience.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the event!

Board Nominations 2023

Dear Members,

Further to the recent notice of the Baseball Queensland Annual General Meeting for 2023 (download the notice below).

2023 AGM NOTICE

Nominations for election to the BQ Board of Management closed on 3 October 2023.

The following positions are up for election at the AGM:

Commissioner – (position currently held by Chris Norrie)

Director – (position currently held by Rodney Gaunt)

Director – (position currently held by Andrea Marshall)

Director, casual vacancy – (position currently held by Daniel White)

The following Candidates have been nominated for election to the following roles:

RODNEY GAUNT - POSITION NOMINATED: DIRECTOR AND COMMISSIONER

Candidate: Rodney Gaunt

Position Nominated: Director and Commissioner

Membership Status: Volunteer

Supporting Information: R.Gaunt – Skills Matrix

Candidate Information for Members

Proposer Details: Andrew Gallpen (Bris West)

Seconder Details: Kath Hammond (Bris West)

ANDREA MARSHALL - POSITION NOMINATED: DIRECTOR AND COMMISSIONER

Candidate: Andrea Marshall

Position Nominated: Director and Commissioner

Membership Status: Volunteer

Supporting Information: A.Marshall – C.V.

Skills Matrix – A. Marshall

Candidate information for Members

Proposer Details: Tony McPhail (GCBA)

Seconder Details: Nick Day (GCBA)

CHRIS NORRIE - POSITION NOMINATED: COMMISSIONER

Candidate: Chris Norrie

Position Nominated: Commissioner

Membership Status: Hon. Member – Carina Red Sox

Supporting Information: C.Norrie – Skills Matrix

Proposer Details: James Somerville (BSBA)

Seconder Details: Mick McDougall (BSBA)

BRAD PARSONS - POSITION NOMINATED: DIRECTOR

Candidate: Brad Parsons

Position Nominated: Director

Membership Status: NA

Supporting Information: NA

Proposer Details: James Somerville (BSBA)

Seconder Details: Mick McDougall (BSBA)

JIM STRACHAN - POSITION NOMINATED: DIRECTOR

Candidate: Jim Strachan

Position Nominated: Director

Membership Status: Volunteer

Supporting Information: J.Strachan – Skills Matrix

Proposer Details: Tony Huntley (Bris Metro)

Seconder Details: Sandra Lawson (Bris Metro)

DANIEL WHITE - POSITION NOMINATED: DIRECTOR

Candidate: Daniel White

Position Nominated: Director

Membership Status: Volunteer

Supporting Information: D.White – Skills Matrix

Proposer Details: Emma Reid (NQ Region)

Seconder Details: Anne Kippin (NQ Region)

Members are encouraged to consider the relevant Skills Matrices and supporting documentation for each Candidate, provided to assist in assessing each nomination.

The Election will be held the night of the 2023 Annual General Meeting, 25th October 2023.

Emerging Athlete Program (EAP)

I am thrilled to share with you the incredible journey we’ve embarked on during the inaugural year of our Emerging Athlete Program (EAP). This program has been nothing short of transformative, not only for our young athletes but also for the broader baseball community in our region.

Unprecedented Growth: One of the most remarkable aspects of this year’s EAP has been the extraordinary growth we’ve witnessed. In 2022 we had 60 athletes in our Athlete Development Program (ADP) and saw participation surge to 212 athletes in the EAP. This represents a substantial increase, reflecting the strong demand for high-quality baseball development programs in our community.

Expanding Our Reach: Our commitment to providing opportunities for athletes has led us to expand our program locations. From three initial locations in the ADP, we expanded to seven EAP locations, making it even more accessible to aspiring baseball players across our region. This expansion has allowed us to tap into new talent pools and foster the growth of the sport.

Dedicated Coaching Team: None of this growth and development would have been possible without the dedication of our coaching team. We started with 11 coaches in the ADP and saw this number rise to an impressive 30 coaches in the EAP. This significant increase in coaching expertise has allowed us to provide more personalised attention and guidance to our athletes, ensuring they receive top-tier instruction.

On-Field Excellence: Our on-field training sessions have been the heart and soul of the EAP. We conducted a total of 60 on-field training sessions, offering athletes the opportunity to refine their skills and deepen their understanding of the game. These sessions have been a breeding ground for excellence, and we’re proud of the progress our athletes have made.

A Bright Future Ahead: As we reflect on this inaugural year of the EAP, we’re filled with gratitude for the support of our coaches, athletes, and the entire baseball community. This program has set a strong foundation for the future, and we are excited to see the continued growth and success of baseball in our region.