Orewa Sharks enjoy national success
Bats were swinging and players were sprinting at this year’s Baseball New Zealand National Ripken under 13 Championships.
For the first time, the Orewa Sharks Baseball Club got into the national championships at Rosedale Park, alongside 13 other teams from around the country.
The record breaking event had the club in fifth place at the beginning of the competition, and second place by the grand final.
This was a huge achievement for the team. It was also a big achievement when their team cocaptain, Zach Dawson, was named on the All Tournament Team.
‘‘I felt so proud to make the finals. The night games were the best, it was a great experience to play other teams from around the country,’’ Zach said.
Nikau Heeney, who was also the team’s co-captain, agreed.
‘‘It was an awesome experience making the finals with my friends and my step brother Zach. I have never been so nervous and excited.’’
The tournament was the main trial to select a team of 15 to represent New Zealand.
There are three more trials around the country and the final squad will be named at the end of April.
Club president Neil Morrison said although they did not win, the boys played beyond themselves to finish second in the country and did the sport and club proud.
Baseball New Zealand’s Ryan Flynn said it was very exciting for everyone in the baseball community to see newer clubs like Orewa begin to build a base of talent and infrastructure to support the growth of the game.
‘‘Their club is starting to build something special up in northern Auckland and together with North Shore City Baseball Club, could be an important corridor for the growth of the sport of baseball for many years to come. I am sure their successes on the diamond will lead to more players streaming to register to play.’’
The club has had many other exciting things happen this season. Their men’s divisional team came first in the Auckland Baseball competition, and they have entered a premier men’s team into the national championship.
They also have a 90ft permanent diamond being built at Victors Eaves with dugouts, showing their club and the sport is flourishing.