Josh Campbell-Manfield selected in Queensland schoolboys under-12 softball team

Sunshine Coast rising sporting talent Josh Campbell-Manfield is beginning to shine in the spotlight after earning selection in the Queensland primary schoolboys softball side despite being the age younger and having limited experience in the sport.

Rising Sunshine Coast baseball talent Josh Campbell-Manfield. Picture: Patrick Woods

Sunshine Coast rising sporting talent Josh Campbell-Manfield is beginning to shine in the spotlight after earning selection in the Queensland primary schoolboys softball side despite being the age younger and having limited experience in the sport.

The 11-year-old Bli Bli State School student said he was recommended by his teachers to attend the Nambour district team trials before further impressing selectors to make the 12-man Sunshine Coast regional team.

Campbell-Manfield and his side finished third at the Hervey Bay state titles last month before his name was read out as a part of the Queensland team.

“Two of my school teachers told me I should try out for the district team and I’m very glad I did because I definitely didn’t think I’d make it this far,” he said.

“When I heard my name for the Queensland team I was very surprised but I remember just smiling and shaking everyone’s hands.”

Sunshine Coast rising sporting talent Josh Campbell-Manfield.

Campbell-Manfield, who began playing baseball when he was four-years-old and currently represents the Padres in Redcliffe, is excited for the opportunity to expand his skills in another sport.

The Queensland side will travel to Cairns in October where they will compete against a number of other junior schoolboy state teams.

“It’s going to be hot but I’m excited to see how good the other states are and how we can perform as a team,” he said.

Josh Campbell-Manfield in action.

“I was told Queensland are always quite strong so it would be great to be able to win it all in my first year and hopefully I can make it again next year.

“I’m hoping to play well but I’m mainly excited to make new friends from all of the different schools.”

The keen MLB and Sydney Blue Sox fan thanked the support and effort from his parents, coaches, teammates, friends and teachers.

Parents Lauren and Ryan said they were hoping to create a fundraising raffle or prize giveaway to help cover the cost of Josh’s trip.

If anyone is in a position to help out they are encouraged to contact [e-mail]

Originally published as Josh Campbell-Manfield selected in Queensland schoolboys under-12 softball team