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Brad Parsons to join the BQ Board
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BRAD PARSONS
BRAD PARSONS
Calling all young baseball enthusiasts! The highly anticipated Regional School Sport Baseball Trials are just around the corner, promising an exciting platform for budding athletes to showcase their talent and represent their respective school sport regions. School Sport Regions will hold their respective trials to identify teams to compete in the 2024 12-14 Years School Baseball State Championships and the 2024 15-18 Years Schools Baseball Championships. Organised by Queensland School Sport, these events have been a stepping stone for many talented players on their journey to excellence.
2024 12-14 Years Queensland Schools Baseball Championship Thursday 18 April 2024 to Sunday 21 April 2024 at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club.
2024 15-18 Years Queensland Schools Baseball Championships Thursday 7 March 2024 to Sunday 10 March 2024. Venue to be announced.
Seeking School Approval: A Crucial First Step
For students eager to participate in the trials, it is imperative to seek permission from their respective schools. This involves obtaining both parental and school approval through a designated form. This process ensures that participating students are not only committed to their sport but also maintain their academic responsibilities.
Parents and students are encouraged to reach out to the sports and administrative staff at their school to obtain further details and the necessary forms. It’s a team effort, and collaboration between students, parents, and schools is essential to ensure a seamless and enriching experience for all participants.
A Platform for Aspiring Athletes
The Regional School Sport Baseball Trials provide a unique opportunity for students to compete at a high level, fostering sportsmanship, camaraderie, and skill development. This event is not only about showcasing raw talent but also about cultivating a passion for baseball and nurturing a sense of teamwork.
Participants can expect to engage in competitive games, receive coaching from committed teachers, and potentially earn a coveted spot in the Queensland School Sport Baseball team. For many, this event is a stepping stone towards higher levels of competition, making it an invaluable experience for any young baseball player.
Dates and Locations
The Regional School Sport Baseball Trials will take place at various venues across Queensland. Dates and locations for each region are available from the table below. It’s imperative for interested students to stay tuned through their school sport channels for updates to ensure they don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity.
A Word from the Organisers
“We’re thrilled to welcome young baseball enthusiasts from across Queensland to the Regional School Sport Baseball Trials,” said Kath Wenban, Chair of the Queensland Schools Baseball Committee. “This event has been instrumental in nurturing talent and passion for baseball in the state, and we can’t wait to witness the skills and sportsmanship on display. We encourage students, parents, and schools to work together to make this event a success.”
Get Ready to Swing for the Fences!
The Queensland Schools Baseball Championships promise to be a thrilling experience for students across Queensland. It’s a chance to showcase talent, build friendships, and engage in their chosen sport. Remember, it all starts with obtaining permission from your school, so don’t delay – contact your school’s sports and administrative staff today!
For further updates and information, stay connected with Queensland School Sport through official channels and school communications. Get ready to step up to the plate and let your talent shine!
Please click here to view the dates for the various School Sport Regional Baseball Trials
Baseball Queensland expresses its gratitude to Rodney Gaunt for his unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions during his tenure as a Director.
Rodney’s dedication has been instrumental in shaping the organisation and ensuring its continued success.
One of Rodney’s significant accomplishments was his leadership in the consultation process with members on the constitution review project, which played a pivotal role in identifying crucial design attributes and key definitions within the revised constitution set to be distributed to Members for comment. This effort not only solidified the organisation’s proposed direction on the constitutional changes considered, but also fostered a sense of inclusivity and transparency among members.
Furthermore, Gaunt’s meticulous attention to detail and expertise were pivotal in aligning the proposed constitution with recent legal advice on legislative changes. His collaboration with legal advisors exemplified his commitment to upholding the highest standards of governance within Baseball Queensland.
In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, Gaunt recognised the importance of effective communication. His collaboration with the CPR Group resulted in the development of impactful media strategies that will be disseminated to provide members insight to key proposed changes to the constitution. This forward-thinking approach is aimed at ensuring members are well-informed and empowered to participate in the decision-making process.
Additionally, Gaunt’s involvement in the development and review of essential Baseball Queensland policies demonstrated his dedication to fostering a culture of accountability and integrity within the organisation. His contributions in this area have set a standard of excellence that will endure for years to come.
Rodney has also served in a leadership capacity for the Bannister Park management committee.
Baseball Queensland acknowledges Rodney Gaunt’s exceptional service, which has left an indelible mark on the organisation. His selfless dedication, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to the sport have been an inspiration to all those who have had the privilege of working alongside him.
As Gaunt steps into a new chapter, his legacy will continue to shape the future of baseball in Queensland. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rodney Gaunt and wish him continued success in all his future endeavours.
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
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
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Coaching Accreditation and Education: Coaches who have pursued continuous education and professional development in coaching and related fields should be recognised.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Dear Members,
Further to the recent notice of the Baseball Queensland Annual General Meeting for 2023 (download the notice below).
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:
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)
Candidate: Andrea Marshall
Position Nominated: Director and Commissioner
Membership Status: Volunteer
Supporting Information: A.Marshall – C.V.
Candidate information for Members
Proposer Details: Tony McPhail (GCBA)
Seconder Details: Nick Day (GCBA)
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)
Candidate: Brad Parsons
Position Nominated: Director
Membership Status: NA
Supporting Information: NA
Proposer Details: James Somerville (BSBA)
Seconder Details: Mick McDougall (BSBA)
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)
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.
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.