The next generation of softballers coming through Queensland looks bright as they take the pitch in Cairns
Queensland best junior softballers haved flocked to Cairns to take part in the National School Sports Softball Championships.
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Cairns will welcome up the best junior softballers for the National School Sports Softball Championships.
Running from Sunday through to Thursday, teams from Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, Australian Capital Territory and Queensland will take part in both the girls and boys under 12s competition.
Below are 11 of the players from the Queensland boys and girls sides who are starring as the next generation for Queensland Softball.
Queensland Boys
Name: Connor Thorburn
School: Everton Park State School (Brisbane)
Position: Pitcher, Short Stop
Coach’s Comments:
Connor, a dedicated softball player with three years of experience under his belt. Playing as both a pitcher and shortstop, Connor embodies the spirit of teamwork and competition.
Inspired by his parents, who both grew up playing softball and baseball, he has embraced the sport, continuing a cherished family tradition.
In 2023, Connor achieved a major milestone by making his first Queensland team, a moment that solidified his passion for the game and left an indelible mark on his journey.
To prepare for big games, Connor believes in the power of hard work and dedication.
His intense training regimen and focused mindset help him stay sharp and ready for any challenge on the field.
With his talent and determination, Connor is a player to watch as he continues to grow and make his mark in the world of softball.
Name: Paddy Evans
School: Home Schooled
Position: Catcher, First Base
Coach’s Comments:
Paddy is an up-and-coming softball star with a promising future as a catcher and first baseman.
Over the past three years, Paddy has developed his skills and passion for the game, beginning his journey on the oval at school, inspired by his Year 4 teacher, Miss Nicola.
Her encouragement led him to join his first softball team, igniting his love for the sport.
Coached by the inspiring Hoera of the Lakers, Paddy admires his positive attitude and dedication to helping young players achieve their goals.
Paddy’s greatest challenge has been adapting to various coaching styles and embracing the invaluable advice offered at different levels.
This willingness to learn has made him a versatile player, eager to grow and excel on the field.
With his determination and commitment, Paddy is set to make a significant impact in the world of softball.
Name: Ky Jackson
School: Birkdale South State School (Brisbane)
Positon: First and Third Base
Coach’s Comments:
Ky is a talented softball player with four years of experience, excelling at first and third base. Transitioning from baseball, Ky took up softball during the winter off-season, quickly discovering a new passion for the game.
One of his most memorable moments came during a thrilling match against the Mariners, the top team in his local competition. With a strong lead of 6-1, Ky showcased his skills and determination on the field.
Ky believes that maintaining a strong mindset is crucial to success, especially during challenging games. He stays focused on the next play, keeping his head up and avoiding dwelling on past errors, which fuels his motivation. With his dedication and resilience, Ky is not only a formidable player but also a positive influence on his teammates. As he continues to grow in the sport, Ky is poised to make his mark in the world of softball.
Name: Josh Campbell-Manfield
School: Bli Bli State School (Bli Bli, Sunshine Coast)
Position: Right Field, Third Base
Coach’s Comment:
Josh is an emerging talent in softball, embarking on his first year in the sport after eight successful years in baseball.
Inspired by his teachers at school, Josh decided to take the plunge into softball, quickly making an impact on the field.
In his short but impressive career, he has proudly represented the Nambour District, Sunshine Coast Region, and Queensland, showcasing his skills and dedication to the game.
One of Josh’s biggest challenges came early on when he faced off against his Queensland teammate, pitcher JZ. Battling against such a skilled player tested his abilities and pushed him to adapt quickly.
With a strong baseball foundation and a passion for learning, Josh is determined to grow as a player.
As he continues his softball journey, he’s excited to face new challenges and make a lasting impression in the sport he’s come to love!
Name: Coby Poustie
School: Frenchville State School (North Rockhamption)
Position: Outfielder
Coach’s Comment:
Coby is a passionate outfielder with five years of experience in softball. His journey began with tee ball at school, where he first discovered the excitement of the game and the joy of teamwork.
Coby draws inspiration from his coach, Mr. Harrison, who leads the U12 Girls Queensland Representative School Sport team. With a wealth of playing experience and a supportive coaching style, Mr. Harrison has played a crucial role in shaping Coby’s development as a player.
When it comes to handling pressure during critical moments, Coby has a unique mindset. He focuses on staying calm and collected, refusing to let the intensity of the game overwhelm him.
By keeping a clear head, he’s able to perform at his best, even in high-stakes situations. With his dedication and resilience, Coby is poised for continued success in softball and is excited to take on new challenges ahead!
Name: Baxton O’Brien
School: St Patrick’s College (Shorncliffe, Brisbane)
Position: Short Stop, Pitcher
Coach’s Comment:
Braxton is a dedicated softball player with nine years of experience, excelling as both a shortstop and pitcher. Inspired by his mother, who has played since childhood, Braxton developed a love for the game early on.
His commitment to the sport is unwavering, training five days a week for three hours each session.
When the going gets tough, Braxton finds motivation in the cheers of his mother from the sidelines and the unwavering support of his teammates, who encourage him with positive words and camaraderie.
Braxton looks up to Australian softball players and has been greatly influenced by all his coaches, particularly Tracey, who guided him during his teeball days.
Their mentorship and support have shaped his skills and love for the game. With his relentless dedication and passion, Braxton is on a promising path to making his mark in softball!
Queensland Girls
Name: Paige Poustie
School: Frenchville State School (Rockhampton)
Position: Pitcher, Short Stop
Coach’s Comment:
“What truly sets Paige apart is her composure on the plate. Under pressure, she remains focused and resilient, displaying leadership and maturity well beyond her years. I have no doubt she has the potential to become a standout player at these championships, and I’m excited to see her continued growth and success on the field.”
For the past five years, the journey of young softball pitcher Paige Poustie has been filled with dedication, growth, and ambition.
Starting out as a beginner with a love for the game inspired by her older brother, she quickly realised that pitching was where she belonged.
Twice a week, Paige hits the field for intense training sessions, working on form, strength, and mental resilience.
Weekends are dedicated to games, where every pitch is a chance to test her skills under pressure.
Paige sees each training session and game as a stepping stone toward her bigger dream of one day representing Australia in the Olympics.
Name: Olivia Cherry
School: Mount Warren Park State School (Mount Warren Park, South Brisbane)
Position: Pitcher, Second Base
Coach’s Comment:
“We selected Olivia as a 10 year old last year as we could see her natural talent. Over the past year, Olivia has gone away and reflected on her experience last year. Training four times a week, with two sessions specifically focused on pitching, ensures steady progress in mastering the techniques of both positions. Olivia’s intense schedule demonstrates a strong commitment to achieving her goal of one day becoming a top-level player.”
Olivia’s softball journey began as a family affair, with an older sister already involved in the game, the decision to give it a go seemed natural.
Two years later, Olivia has developed a strong passion for the sport, focusing on pitching and playing second base.
With sights set on a future in competitive softball, Olivia dreams of making an Australian team while still in school.
This ambitious goal drives her efforts both on and off the field, combining a focus on skill development with a love for the game.
Name: Kira Russell
School: AB Paterson College (Arundel)
Position: Short Stop, Second Base
Coach’s Comment:
“As a returning player from 2023, Kira is a senior member of our team who brings a fountain of knowledge and a positive attitude to every game. She just loves sport and that is evident in the energy she brings to our team.”
When her school needed more players for her sister’s team, Kira decided to put up her hand and give it a go because she loved the competitiveness and style of the game.
Ever since then, she hasn’t looked back.
“What I enjoy most about softball is how dynamic it is. There are so many different aspects to the game, and you’re always involved, no matter what position you play.”
As a versatile athlete, Kira enjoys competing in a variety of sports, including tennis, swimming, soccer, baseball, and softball.
“Right now, I’m not focused on specialising in just one because I love them all. My goal is to continue competing at a high level in each of my chosen sports.”
Name: Kyah Malo
School: Morayfield East State School (Morayfield)
Position: Pitcher, 1st Base
Coach’s Comments:
“Kyah is a ray of sunshine on our team. She gives her best to everything she does and I can certainly see a bright future for her. For someone so young, she shows a maturity well beyond her years and has the skills to match.”
Four and a half years ago, young Kyah’s softball journey began when she went to Redcliffe with her family for a fun day out and to try something new.
What began as a simple outing has now become a true expression of who Kyah is.
“Softball allows me to show who I really am. I love playing and I love encouraging and supporting others along the way.” Kyah said.
“Both of my older sisters proudly represented Queensland in the 10 -12 years softball championships when they were younger.
“I was lucky enough to make the team when I was just 10 years old and now, my dream is to follow in their footsteps, have a fantastic tournament and learn lots of new skills so that I can represent Queensland again, and, one day, wear the green and gold for Australia.”
Name: Tigi Lien-Jenkins
School: Trinity Lutheran College (Ashmore)
Position: Catcher, 1st Base
Coach’s Comments:
“As the baseball academy director at a Brisbane School it is great to see Tigi incorporating her baseball skills on the softball diamond. She is driven to improve herself and is not afraid to asks questions. Tigi is exactly the kind of athlete a coach dreams of having on their team.”
Initially starting out in baseball, Tigi realised that softball shared many of the same skills but offered a fresh challenge, prompting her to trial for her South Coast Region.
Tigi trains twice a week with her team, sharpening skills and teamwork.
In addition to team practices, Tigi dedicates time to training independently with her Dad, whose constant encouragement inspires her to strive for excellence and push her limits.
Looking ahead, Tigi has big dreams: she aspires to travel to the United States, where she hopes to play college ball while pursuing a degree in marine biology.
The combination of athletic and academic goals fuels her motivation both on the field and in the classroom. With a clear vision and a supportive foundation, Tigi is determined to make her mark in both sports.
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