Queensland’s U16 and U18 Players Receive Team Australia Gear Ahead of USA Tour

Last night was a special occasion for Queensland’s U16 and U18 players as they received their Team Australia gear for their upcoming USA tour. The event was made even more memorable by the presence of Andrew Riddell, Baseball Australia’s national player development manager, alongside Shayne Watson, presented players with their gear.

Riddell spoke to the players and parents, highlighting the significance of the tour for their development as players. “This tour is a rare opportunity,” Riddell said. “You’ll be facing some of the best young players in the world, and this experience will help you grow as athletes. Representing Australia is an honour, and I know you’ll make your state and country proud.”

The U16 squad, led by Queensland Coach David Badke and Assistant Coach Dan Wilson, will compete in a five-game series against the USA’s 15U team in Atlanta. This is the first time Australia and the USA will meet in a series at this age level. The U16s will also take part in the 2024 U16 Perfect Game World Series, playing against top college prospects and future MLB draft picks.

The U18 squad will head to Florida from September to October. They’ll compete in high-level tournaments in front of professional scouts and college recruiters, giving them a chance to showcase their talents. With many of their American opponents already committed to top NCAA Division 1 schools, it’s a significant opportunity for the Queenslanders to stand out.

It’s an exciting time for baseball in North Queensland!

The 2024 Barrier Reef Baseball Tournament, held from July 19 to July 21 at Trinity Beach, Cairns was a great success. For over 30 years, this tournament has been a highlight of the North Queensland baseball calendar, showcasing both seasoned talent and rising stars.

This year’s tournament featured an electrifying competition, particularly between the Cairns Cyclones and the Townsville Stealers. The Cyclones, enhanced by new Japanese and American players, demonstrated their depth of experience, while the Stealers, with their strong female players and Queensland Representative experience, delivered fierce competition. The games were a thrilling display of skill and determination, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

A standout addition this year was the NQ Storm U20 team, managed by Regional Director of Coaching, Anthony Van Fleet. This team offered emerging talent from Cairns and Townsville the chance to shine. Players like Jhett Wollin, Will Wolden, Cathy Rowe, and Noah Kopeshke excelled, gaining invaluable experience against more seasoned opponents.

The Alice Springs team also made a notable debut, marking a significant milestone for baseball in the NT. With baseball rapidly growing in Alice Springs, their participation highlighted the rising talent in the region. The team, including local stars Torey and Derek Williams, made a strong impression, showing that Alice Springs is a rising force in baseball.

Photo Credit: Nicola Caldwell Photography (Facebook)  |  Great Barrier Reef Tournament Album (Facebook)

In addition, the Cairns vs Townsville Intercity Carnival, held alongside the main tournament, drew considerable attention. Baseball Queensland sent elite players and coaches to engage with the juniors and assess emerging talent, pointing to a bright future for North Queensland baseball.  Our Player Development team included Brisbane Bandits and ABL Rookie of the Year Alex Skepton, 2023 Youth Women’s MVP Molly Paddison, Baseball Queensland coach Lyndsey Campbell, and Baseball Queensland’s Player Development Coordinator Nick Bachono engaged with the local baseball community, providing valuable insights and fostering growth among the players. engaged deeply with the local community. Highlights included meet and greet sessions, intensive on-field training, and clinics for U13 and U17 players, focusing on skill enhancement and game strategy. The trip concluded with a medal presentation ceremony, celebrating the players’ achievements and strengthening community ties.

As the Intercity Carnival moves to Townsville this weekend, the Under 13’s and Under 17’s teams are set to continue the friendly but competitive showdown between Cairns and Townsville. The games start on Saturday at 12pm, with final matchups on Sunday morning on D1.

Don’t miss the action at Jabiru Park, Condon to witness these young athletes in action and experience the excitement of North Queensland baseball. With so much happening in the region, now is the perfect time to support these talented players and be part of the ongoing baseball story.