Baseball attracts more juniors

THERE were times when Townsville Baseball thought they may never have got off the ground this year, but throughout the pandemic they have witnessed a surge in numbers.

It has all culminated in the most successful season the association has had, as the preliminary finals kick off this weekend.

Last year’s six sides have grown to eight, which has included the first all women’s side in the competition’s history. Now as opposed to one league, two leagues of four have been established, which has included the women’s outfit and an all under-18s set up.

Multiple junior outlets have also come on board to satisfy a developing base, having Townsville Baseball president Dan White eager for what the future holds.

While numbers have steadily grown, he said the association’s primary focus was now on enhancing that growth, given the sport’s relatively low profile in the region compared to the likes of rugby league.

“The committee and association has been working hard the last four or five years on implementing the culture of baseball in Townsville, making it inclusive and have a sense of belonging,” White said.

“Now it’s just continuing to keep getting our name out there. No one really knows there’s baseball in Townsville.

“It’s probably our biggest downfall at the moment, so the more people find out about the more they’ll have a go.

“It’s a continuous effort from everyone wanting to grow the game … we’re coming from a point where five years ago we didn’t have any juniors at all.”

This weekend’s A-grade final will pit the Jethawks against the Mustangs, with the victor to advance to the title decider against the Taipans.

In past campaigns, the Jethawks have had the wood over their Saturday rivals, however 2020 has marked a significant turning of the tide.

Three clashes between the respective outfits have yielded three wins for the Mustangs, but White said form would account for little once they reached the do or die contest.

White, who will line up for Mustangs and coaches the team, said all it would take was one or two moments of brilliance to rewrite the script of seasons past.

And he nominated Ricky Esterquest as the man to do it.

“His ability to move around the bases has been vital. He’s an aggressive base runner and his development with his pitching game from last year has taken a step forward, which has been a great advantage and put us in a good position,” White said. “(But) really, it’s a clean slate once you get to the finals, so that Mustangs record means nothing if we can’t finish it off.’’