SOFTBALLERS SET FOR STATE DEBUT
SOFTBALL: Three Darling Downs softballers are proof the future of the sport is in safe hands.
Rohan Doherty, Rochelle Hornick and Bianca Markham head to the 12-years nationals this weekend excited to be representing Queensland.
Doherty, 16, will umpire at the boys championships in Canberra, while Hornick and Markham will line-up for the 12-years schoolgirls’ team.
The young trio is passionate, dedicated, determined to perform well and eager to help their sport grow.
“I had lot of butterflies before the team was named,” Markham said.
“I’ve been working very hard and I really wanted to be part of the team.
“I’m very excited now. It’s the first time I’ve been named in a Queensland team and it’s an honour.”
Set to spend some time behind home plate as her team’s catcher, Markham will be among the busier players in the squad.
“I like the responsibility when you’re catcher,” she said.
“You have to watch the batter, see what they’re hitting and put your glove in the right place so you can give your pitcher something good to aim at.”
Like her team-mate, and good friend, Hornick is also excited to be in action at the nationals.
“I’ve been in the Darling Downs team three times but this is my first time playing for Queensland,” she said.
“I’m really happy and very excited.”
Hornick, who can play in both the out and infield, said she would happily line-up wherever she was needed.
“Normally, I am in the outfield but I can play shortstop or at first base,” she said.
“I will play wherever the team needs me though.”
Doherty will also be representing his state for the first time – as an umpire.
“I’ve umpired at other tournaments but this will be my first time representing Queensland,” he said.
“It (umpiring) can be very demanding but I love it.
“We need more younger umpires to help the game grow and develop.
“Plus I see it as good way to give back to the game.
“Especially when you can help younger players learn more about the game and become better players.”
‘‘ I’M REALLY HAPPY AND VERY EXCITED.
ROCHELLE HORNICK