NEWS - Baseball Queensland

Futures League U14’s Kicks Off This Sunday!

Futures League U14’s Kicks Off This Sunday!

Baseball Queensland is thrilled to announce the start of the Futures League U14’s, commencing this Sunday, 11th August. This exciting five-week competition promises to showcase the talents of our young baseball stars, with games held every Sunday until 8th September.

The Futures League is a term three development opportunity designed to nurture emerging talent across various age groups, from 12 to 30 years old. It complements BQ’s performance pathways by including players from the BQ Athlete Development and Performance Programs, as well as those selected through an open Expression of Interest process. Using modified rules tailored to enhance skill development and strategic understanding, the Futures League provides a focused and supportive environment for growth. Beyond players, the program also offers significant development opportunities for coaches, officials, and scorers, creating an inclusive ecosystem that benefits all aspects of the game.

Game Schedule:

Sunday 11 August 2024
Emerging U14 (EU14) – First round at 9:00am and 11:00am at Pine Hills Baseball Club.
U14’s – First round at 12:30pm and 2:30pm at Western Districts Baseball Club.

This Sunday, the EU14’s will kick off the competition bright and early at Pine Hills, setting the stage for an action-packed day. Following their matches, the U14’s will take the field at West Bulldogs, ensuring a full day of thrilling baseball action. We look forward to seeing the community come together to support these young athletes as they develop their skills and sportsmanship. Mark your calendars, gather your family and friends, and join us for an unforgettable season of Futures League U14’s baseball!

Stay Tuned: More information about the upcoming U16, U18, and Open Women’s competitions will be released soon. Keep an eye on our website and social media channels for the latest updates.

Let’s play ball! ⚾🎉

2024 Baseball Queensland Hall of Fame Voting Underway!

2024 Hall of Fame Voting Underway!

The eagerly awaited 2024 Hall of Fame Ballot is now underway, following the completion of the Heritage Advisory Panel’s meticulous vetting and validating process. After careful consideration and evaluation, a selection of prominent candidates has emerged, representing the pinnacle of achievements in Queensland baseball history.

Voting Panel

The next phase of this process will see the Voting Panel tasked with the responsibility of determining the next inductees into the Queensland Baseball Hall of Fame. Comprising various stakeholders from affiliated clubs and regions, as well as representative bodies such as the Queensland Baseball Umpires Association and the Queensland Baseball Scorers Committee, the Voting Panel represents the wide-reaching impact and influence of baseball across the state.

Voting Panel

Moreover, the Brisbane Bandits, living Baseball Queensland Life Members, and living Baseball Queensland Hall of Fame members also form integral parts of the Voting Panel, ensuring a comprehensive and representative decision-making process.

Baseball Queensland will soon dispatch detailed information to all Voting Panel Members via email, providing them with the necessary instructions and access to the digital voting application. This platform will streamline the voting procedure, enhancing efficiency and transparency in the selection process.

To be inducted into the Baseball Queensland Hall of Fame, candidates must receive 75% of the total votes cast by the Voting Panel. Additionally, to ensure the validity of the ballot, it is required that at least 80% of the Voting Panel submits their votes.

In a bid to accommodate the diverse perspectives of the Panel Members, the electronic ballot allows for a range of choices. Members are encouraged to cast their votes in favour of any or all of the nominated candidates. Importantly, those who opt not to support any of the candidates are advised to utilise the “abstain” option on the electronic ballot paper. This will contribute to meeting the necessary 80% threshold for validating the poll.

The voting period will span seven days, providing Panel Members with ample time to assess the candidates’ achievements and contributions to the sport before casting their votes. The results will be closely monitored, and the inductees into the 2024 Queensland Baseball Hall of Fame will be announced shortly after the conclusion of the voting period and subsequently inducted into the Hall of Fame at the BQ Hall of Fame and Awards Dinner on 20 September 2024.

As the Queensland baseball community eagerly anticipates the forthcoming Hall of Fame inductees, this year’s nominees have already etched their names in the annals of baseball history. The tireless efforts, dedication, and passion demonstrated by these individuals have not only elevated the sport but have also left an enduring legacy for generations to come.

Current Hall of Fame

Our BQ Heroes

Vetting and Validating Process

Hall of Fame Criteria

Baseball Queensland Seeks Leader for Baseball5 Program

Baseball Queensland is dedicated to promoting and expanding the sport of baseball across the state. Our Game Development team plays a pivotal role in fostering participation and creating opportunities for growth within our community. We are currently seeking a motivated and experienced individual to join our team as a Baseball5 Co-Ordinator.

As the Baseball5 Co-Ordinator, you will be instrumental in promoting and expanding Baseball5 initiatives. You will work closely with schools and community organisations to foster participation and create pathways for growth in the sport. This role requires a proactive and organised individual with a passion for sports development and community engagement.

The WBSC has plans to grow Baseball5 internationally, plans that include the games’ inclusion in the Youth Olympics and a World Championship event being held in Hong Kong from the 5th – 14th October 2024. Efforts are currently underway to build an Australian Team to compete in this World Cup event.

You can review the job advert at this link:

https://www.seek.com.au/job/77735658

What is Baseball5 you say? We’re glad you asked:

SEQ Come & Try Days

To find more about your local club, visit: Local Clubs

Greater Brisbane

gold coast

sunshine coast

Baseball Queensland Partners with Sport4All to Champion Inclusivity and Diversity

Baseball Queensland is excited to announce a new partnership with Sport4All, a program dedicated to making grassroots sport more inclusive across Australia. This partnership aligns perfectly with Baseball Queensland’s goals of evolving, engaging, and connecting within the sport. Sport4All, developed through a collaboration between the Australian Government, the Australian Sports Commission, and Dylan Alcott’s consultancy, Get Skilled Access, aims to make sport accessible to everyone. This award-winning program focuses on creating opportunities for people with disabilities to fully participate in and enjoy sports.

By partnering with Sport4All, Baseball Queensland will develop and diversify playing opportunities, introduce innovative approaches to sustain and grow baseball in Queensland, and improve the experiences of the baseball community. This collaboration will also help Baseball Queensland engage with stakeholders to develop strong partnerships, promote baseball as the sport of choice, and foster a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion.

This partnership with Sport4All aligns perfectly with their goals, as both organisations are dedicated to creating a future where everyone can enjoy the benefits of sport, regardless of their abilities.

“At Baseball Queensland, we believe in the transformative power of sport to unite communities and foster inclusivity,” said Gareth Jones, CEO of Baseball Queensland. “Our partnership with Sport4All represents a pivotal step towards creating a more inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and camaraderie of baseball. Together, we are committed to breaking down barriers and ensuring that our clubs are welcoming and accessible to all. This collaboration underscores our dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion, enriching the lives of individuals and strengthening the fabric of our community.”

Sam Cawdron, Game Development Manager at Baseball Queensland, added, “I’m thrilled about our partnership with Sport4All and the opportunities they provide. Inclusivity in baseball extends far beyond just getting more people to play the game. It’s about creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels they belong, whether they’re playing, helping in the canteen, keeping score, managing teams, umpiring, or providing off-field support. By collaborating with Sport4All, we’re helping ensure that our clubs are inclusive on and off the field, providing multiple opportunities to help create a community and foster inclusivity to all.“

Sport4All, a national award-winning program, is dedicated to promoting diversity and creating opportunities for people with disability in all aspects of sport. Through education, training, and resources, Sport4All empowers sporting organisations to create welcoming and inclusive environments for everyone.

“We are very excited at Sport4All to partner with Baseball Queensland to support a great sport, with their vision to build their confidence and capability with disability inclusion,” said Kim Abbott, Sport4All State Sport Inclusion Coach for Queensland. “The Sport4All program provides education, training, and resources that are available to the Baseball Queensland community to provide guidance and support, as well as empower associations, clubs, and members about the value of including people with a disability through all levels of baseball.”

Sport4All empowers local clubs, schools, and communities to embrace diversity. Managed by people with lived experience of disability, Sport4All brings valuable insights and promotes inclusive practices. This partnership will provide resources and training to local clubs, ensure people with disabilities can participate in baseball, and raise awareness about the importance of diversity and inclusion. Baseball Queensland is committed to setting a standard for other sporting organisations, showing that inclusive participation benefits the entire community.

Together, Baseball Queensland and Sport4All are dedicated to creating a future where everyone can enjoy the benefits of sport, regardless of their abilities. This partnership is not just about changing the game; it’s about changing lives.

Baseball Queensland Appoints Danny Maruyama as Special Advisor for Partnerships – Japan

Baseball Queensland Appoints Danny Maruyama as Special Advisor for Partnerships – Japan

Baseball Queensland is excited to announce the appointment of Danny Maruyama to the newly created role of Special Advisor for Partnerships – Japan. This appointment recognises Mr. Maruyama’s outstanding contributions over the past 40 years in fostering strong ties between baseball in Queensland and Japanese baseball organisations. Danny Maruyama has played a crucial role in building and nurturing relationships with various Japanese baseball entities. His extensive network and deep understanding of Japanese baseball and culture have significantly advanced Baseball Queensland’s initiatives.

His key contributions include,

-Facilitating communication and meetings with Japanese high school baseball teams and associations

-Organising international visits and exchange programs for teams and coaches

-Providing cultural and linguistic assistance to ensure smooth interactions

-Promoting Baseball Queensland’s initiatives within Japan

Danny Maruyama’s efforts have already brought tangible benefits to Baseball Queensland, including successful exchange programs and increased visibility within the Japanese baseball community. Mr. Maruyama was integral to the establishment of the Robina High School Baseball Excellence program with the program’s field named in his honour, acknowledging his substantial contributions. Mr Maruyama also played a key role in establishing agreements between Baseball Queensland and Japanese High School Baseball Federations that have provided high quality games for our Queensland teams in preparation for the Australian Youth Championships over an extended period of time.

We are confident that Danny Maruyama’s appointment will further solidify our international partnerships and continue to bring mutual benefits to both Baseball Queensland and the Japanese baseball community.

Max Durrington signs with The Athletics

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!

EAP Program Coordinators and Coaches Announcement

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

REGISTER NOW

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

REGISTER NOW

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

REGISTER NOW

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

REGISTER NOW

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

REGISTER NOW

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

REGISTER NOW

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)

Changes for the 2024/2025 Membership Year

$200 FairPlay Vouchers are Still Available!

The allocation hasn’t been exhausted yet – but they’re expected to run out by mid-August, so secure your voucher now.

You don’t need to claim them instantly, so grab one and then hold onto it – they can be redeemed up until June 30, 2025, so you can use them for a Summer OR Winter season!

Increased from $150 to $200 with 150,000 vouchers available for ANY child aged 5-17.

Find out more below:

Increased FairPlay Vouchers Still Available

How to process FairPlay vouchers:

Clubs will be required to setup an individual coupon code for each member who wishes to register with a FairPlay voucher.
Where club fees do not meet the $200 amount, please reach out to admin@baseballqld.asn.au to discuss potentials for capturing the full value.

Capitations Released (Membership Fees Released)

This year, there have been a few changes for the upcoming season to make the registration process through Game Day even easier.

The approved capitations are shown below and have been added to Game Day.

2024/2025 BQ and BQ Capitations Document

The changes for this year:

Replacement of the GBL Womens only Season with the Female Adult Seniors product (one fee for the whole year)
Removal of the GBL Womens 10-week Short Season – which wasn’t used last year.
Removal of the SQWBL specific fee to increase compatibility between membership types throughout the year.
A $3 Baseball Australia fee increase and a $5 Baseball Queensland fee increase (our first increase in 2-years!)

These fees have been finalised for the full September 1st 2024 to August 31st 2025 period, which means that our Winter leagues are able to determine their fees now for next year if they wish.

How does the new Female Adult Seniors Product work?

Using the ‘Filter’ menu, clubs can select a fee specifically for Females.

The positives of the new Female Adult Seniors product:

Simple single fee available for all females to cover the entire membership year (access to Summer, Winter seasons, no additional tournament registrations to compete in Womens or Masters State Titles)
Reduced BQ fee to encourage female participation

Our current membership split is 81% Male to 19% Female. Therefore, female registrations are approximately $30 cheaper. As the percentage approaches a more even split between the two genders, the discount will reduce.

Clarification for Masters Program Fee

Masters memberships are for members 50+, Baseball Queensland has made this change to align with Baseball Australia
Members purchasing the Masters BA/BQ capitation will only be eligible to play in Masters competitions. (GBL Masters Div 1, 2, 3, GCBA Masters (Winter), Masters State Titles, etc.) and will need to use 2024/2025 Baseball Queensland Masters Competition Form (#115823) .
Players aged 50+ who wish to play in other competitions (Adult Seniors Divisions) will need to purchase an Adult Seniors membership on the 2024/2025 Baseball Australia Membership Registration Form (#115072).
Club fees don’t affect capitations/insurance, and as such, clubs are free to continue discounting memberships for 35+ if they wish to do so

This membership type is classed as a ‘Program‘ membership.

For more information on the capitation products, please visit the Resources page. The document is located under the ‘Fees’ tab.

SQWBL fee Removal?

In previous years, a discounted fee was offered to assist in the establishment and early growth of the Southern Queensland Winter Baseball League.

The league has managed sustained growth year-on-year, and with changes to the function of the GameDay registration system, some changes have been forced.

We will be working with SQWBL in the lead up to the Winter 2025 season to ensure that we deliver a seamless registration experience for new and existing members while still supporting the growth of the competition in years to come!

Game Day

Follow the 2024/2025 setup steps for your club, region or competition on the Game Day page here:

BQ Game Day Guides

Min/Max DOB Cheat-sheet

Attention: Greater Brisbane League (GBL) Clubs

Thanks to changes made via Baseball Australia over the past 12 months, we have been able to deactivate the duplicate clubs we used for the GBL competition last year.

This means no more player transfers between two version of a single club – all of your teams are accessible in the same place that your players register – less confusion!

The only caveat to this process is that GBL need to create the teams from their side (and assign them to your club). We will release further details of this once confirmed, expecting that this will occur in August in preparation for team nominations to be finalised.

Volunteer Blue Card – New BQ Policy

ALL volunteers within Baseball Queensland, it’s clubs and regions will require a current and active Blue Card moving forward.

Please see the new policy here, or follow the link to begin your Blue Card application:

Read BQ Policy Here

Blue Card

Game Plan – Baseball Australia Requirement

For the 2024/2025 Season, it is a requirement that ALL Clubs create an account on Game Plan and complete their Club Profile.

We would encourage our Regions to also create an account as the self assessment tools will still relate to your level and may provide opportunities for improvements that you can share with your clubs and implement as a collective!

Failure to meet targets may result in lower funding for Baseball Queensland, necessitating higher capitations for upcoming membership years, so pretty please create your accounts.

Game Plan