ANNUAL Report 2012

DIVERSITY COMMUNITY FUN EXCELLENCE ENGAGEMENT TEAMWORK Purpose

• be the dynamic and innovative leader of in • engage, support and inform all softball stakeholders • raise the profile and standing of and participation in softball • support and deliver quality competitive and recreational softball opportunities locally, nationally and internationally.

Vision

We will be the world’s number one Softball nation, providing exciting competitive and recreational opportunities to a rapidly expanding and diverse membership and to communities across Australia.

Level 1, Suite 2, 273 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066 T 03 9417 0022 www.softball.org.au Ltd ACN 092 181 318

Contents

Highlights ...... 1 Chairman’s Report ...... 3 Acting CEO’s Report ...... 5 Message from the Australian Sports Commission ...... 10 Softball Australia’s Strategic Plan ...... 11 Organisational Structure ...... 14 Our Committees ...... 15 High Performance ...... 17 Membership ...... 21 Member Recognition ...... 27 Coaching...... 38 Scoring...... 40 Umpiring ...... 45 Technical Delegates ...... 53 Community Participation ...... 54 Softball Community Coaching Program ...... 58 Softball Batter Up ...... 60 CRM Project Update ...... 63 Teams ...... 64 International Results ...... 72 Australian Championship Results ...... 76 Other national results ...... 83 Softball Australia Life Members ...... 85 Softball Australia Hall of Fame inductees ...... 85 ISF Hall of Fame inductees ...... 88 Member States ...... 89 Partners and sponsors ...... 90 Glossary ...... 92

John Reid Shield image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Highlights

Highlights

ISF Oceania Men’s Qualifier

In the lead up to the 2013 ISF XIII Men’s World Championship in New Zealand, 1-10 March, the ISF Oceania Men’s Qualifier was held at Hawker International Softball Centre, ACT in December 2011. The Aussie Steelers qualified for the World Championships, finishing the Series undefeated. Samoa and Papua New Guinea participated in the Qualifier, with Samoa also qualifying for the World Championship. Strike Out Breast Cancer

During the U19 Women’s Championship (Perth) and the U17 Girls Championship (Hobart), Softball Australia, Softball WA and Softball Tasmania joined forces on the Strike Out Breast Cancer campaign to raise awareness for the National Breast Cancer Foundation. A total of $8,800 was raised for the Foundation. Men’s Argentina Tour

In September 2011, the Aussie Colts travelled to Parana, Argentina for the 2012 ISF IX Junior Men's World Championship. The tour gave the Aussie Colts a chance to visit and familiarise themselves with the venue and region where they would be returning for the 2012 ISF IX Junior Men’s World Championship in November 2012. The Aussie Colts will be looking to win their fifth consecutive title. The Aussie Steelers Squad also travelled to Argentina, providing the younger members with an opportunity to experience international competition. NSW Firestars

It was a clean sweep for the NSW Firestars, winning the Gilley’s Shield, Edebone-Weber Shield and McLaughlin Cup in the Open Women’s Championships. Congratulations to NSW Firestars for being the first team to achieve this result. New Softball Australia Award – Player of the Grand Final

After reviewing the Softball Australia Awards process in 2010/11, a Player of the Grand Final Award for each of our national events was introduced. Australian U19 Men’s Squad – Aussie Colts

As part of the preparation for the 2012 ISF IX Junior Men’s World Championship to be held in Argentina from 1-10 November 2012, the squad participated in the John Reid Shield, Australian Open Men’s Championship in February, picking up wins against Victoria and . New association and club website

Following a review of the website and feedback from users, the ‘new look’ association and club website was released in December 2011. The new format provides administrators with a more user-friendly, flexible environment which can be tailored to suit association and club requirements, while still offering generic content provided and maintained by Softball Australia. New branding for National Teams

In May, the new team logos for our national teams were unveiled. The graphic components are unique to each team. They have their own style and energy and represent the values of each national team with a refinement of existing shapes (Aussie Steelers and Aussie Colts) and the creation of new logos (Aussie Spirit and Aussie Pride).

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Transitions

Aussie Steeler, Josh Davison, announced his retirement from international competition. Achievements

Darryl Clout, former President of Softball Australia, was recognised as a Softball Australia Life Member and Bob Harrow, Australian Open Men's Head Coach, Paul Maisey and Peta Edebone (former players) were inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame. Two of our umpires were appointed to the final of the 2011 ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championships gold medal game: Helen Strauss (Qld) was appointed the plate and Yvonne Kahler (Qld) was appointed second base. Helen is the first Australian umpire to plate umpire a World Championships gold medal match. She is also the first person to represent her country as a player and an umpire. Congratulations Helen!

Bob Harrow receiving his ISF Hall of Fame plaque from Darryl Clout Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

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Chairman’s Report

The highlight of the year was our national teams' performances on the international stage. Congratulations to and the Australian Open Women’s Team, Aussie Spirit, on finishing 3rd and 4th respectively at the Canadian Open International Women’s Fastpitch and the World Cup of Softball VI in the USA. Supported by a 4th place from the Australian U19 Women’s Team, Aussie Pride, in the IX ISF Junior Women’s World Championships in South Africa, it makes future successes on the world stage look very promising for our women's program. Australia maintains its place as the World’s Number 1 Softball nation, due to the success of the Australia Open Men’s Team, Aussie Steelers and the Australian U19 Men’s Team, Aussie Colts. With international achievements in mind, we also recognise three outstanding individual contributors, Bob Harrow, Peta Edebone and Paul Maisey, who were inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame for their outstanding performances in the elite realms of Softball. Operationally, the past year for Softball Australia has been challenging. We saw the resignation of our CEO, Sue Noble, after 3½ years of service to Softball Australia, the departure of Julie Anderson, Manager High Performance Pathways and Matt Cairns, Business Development Manager. There was also the resignation of two Board members, Ashley Klein and Vicki Lahey. We thank them for their contribution. Financially also, Softball Australia has experienced its most demanding year. Two world championships to attend in the one year along with staff changes resulted in a significant financial loss. While a sizeable operating loss was budgeted due to the timing of the new world championship calendar, the magnitude was greater than anticipated due to many unforseen events and circumstances faced. Having now put all of these issues behind us, we can look forward to a brighter future for Softball as we continue to address the many legacies, and restructure the organisation for improved outputs whilst aligning to stakeholders’ needs and minimising operational costs. The Governance Committee has met bi-monthly over the past 12 months to review Softball Australia’s policies, guidelines and regulations, as well as confer on governance matters raised by the Softball Australia Board. This year has been particularly productive for this Committee with the revision of administrative and governance policies and the review of existing documents. All documents were made available as a resource tool for use and adoption by Softball Australia and Member States. By the conclusion of 2012 we anticipate the completion of a revised eCommunications Policy and Risk Management Policy and operating documents will also be reviewed. A refined Membership Policy will be developed to reflect the recommendations of the comprehensive membership review, including new membership categories. Work continues to align Member States Constitutions, purposes and objectives with Softball Australia. In addition, the Softball Australia Ambassador program continues to provide support for Member State Boards as required and a direct line of communication between a Softball Australia Director and State President. Internationally, significant steps have been made for the inclusion of women's Softball back onto the Olympic Games program. At the XXV World Congress in 2011, the ISF committed to a strategy of a joint bid with Baseball in an attempt to regain admission into the 2020 Olympics. The position of the Softball Australia Board and other ISF members, supported by feedback received from IOC members, was that Softball had an improved chance of inclusion with a joint bid with Baseball, rather than standing alone. The ISF Congress overwhelmingly voted to pursue this strategy and a Working Party was established to progress this direction. Albeit slowly, the framework is being prepared for a joint legal identity internationally and targeted strategy developed for presentation and formal consideration at a World Softball Special Congress scheduled for October 2013. Softball, together in a joint bid with Baseball, is one of seven sports bidding for inclusion in the 2020 Olympics, the decision to

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be made at the 2013 IOC Session scheduled for September in Buenos Aires. Other sports bidding are Climbing, Karate, Roller Sports, Squash, Wakeboard and Wushu. While there is never any certainty, we remain quietly confident that our joint proposal is an enhanced and attractive proposition for Olympic Games inclusion if that is the direction taken by the ISF at Congress. Recognition

I would like to acknowledge the contribution and achievements of the volunteers who support our sport and make it possible for many Australians to participate, day in and day out. As in most sports, the majority of recognition is bestowed upon front-line personnel and the elite. Whilst their contribution is certainly noteworthy and deserved, it is often the volunteers behind the scenes who make it all possible. There is a plethora of coaches, scorers, umpires, grounds-personnel, administrators, committees, parents and supporters who donate huge amounts of their personal time to make this sport possible. These volunteers contribute enormous amounts of work-time freely to enable the registered players to participate in officially organised and recognised Softball. I also take this opportunity to thank the Softball Australia Directors, our Member State Boards, and association and club committees for giving their time freely to support the running and development of our sport. Being a volunteer administrator in sport can be a thankless task, attracting as it does the brunt of criticism for decisions made for the overall good of Softball, rather than parochial interests. Following the departure of our CEO in June 2012, Chet Gray was appointed Acting CEO. A restructure of all Softball Australia operations was immediately conducted with a view to streamline operations and reduce expenditure, while maintaining focus on resourcing key deliverables. As a result, a number of portfolios were amalgamated to develop a new operations team. We thank Chet for the job he has done during this period and to the Softball Australia staff who have collectively supported and contributed to achieving these endeavours, and now, we look forward to the New Year with renewed vigour and enthusiasm. The recruitment process for the CEO position will be contemplated early in 2013. Thank you also to the remaining Softball Australia Board members for their persistence and resilience for not only addressing the many challenges we faced, but remaining unified and steadfast in our conviction of creating a better 'go forward position' for the sport. Board numbers remained at a minimum during this period and we are now in the process of recruiting and increasing our numbers back to full complement for customary operating levels. Finally, we would like to thank our Principal Partner, the Australian Sports Commission who supported Softball Australia during this difficult period. Without their ongoing support and offered assistance we would have struggled to endure this period. Softball Australia appreciates the support of the ASC as we look to the future. Dennis Cullen Chairman

Karina Cannon (NSW) with the Gilley’s Shield Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

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Acting CEO’s Report

Our five year strategic plan has provided the sport with a foundation for sustained growth and reform.

The past 12 months has seen a number of changes in In October 2011, the Softball Australia office relocated staff and structure at Softball Australia. Sue Noble from Hawthorn to Collingwood. The purpose was to (CEO), Julie Anderson (Manager High Performance reduce costs and improve the office layout and Pathways), Matt Cairns (Manager Membership and functionality. Business Development), Lauren Boland (Membership During 2011-12, our finances recorded a deficit, due to a and Business Development Coordinator), Phil Hazlett number of unforeseen circumstances. (Schools & Club Development Coordinator), Nina Xu (Finance Coordinator) and Raelene Jeffrey (National Recognition of success Community Coach) departed Softball Australia seeking new challenges. A highlight in 2011 was the induction of Bob Harrow, Paul Maisey and Peta Edebone into the ISF Hall of In particular, I would like to acknowledge Sue Noble’s Fame. Their contribution and achievements on and off contribution to Softball Australia over the past 3½ the Softball diamond have now been recognised at the years. Development of a five year Strategic Plan, highest level. Softball Australia congratulates these improving the governance structures, quality assurance, worthy individuals on such an outstanding instigating marketing, membership and event research achievement. and review remain a strong legacy of Sue’s tenure with Softball Australia. Sue’s contribution has enhanced the In December, the Australian U19 Women’s Team, Aussie strategic direction and governance standards of the Pride, coached by Paula McGovern (Vic), competed in organisation. the ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championship in Cape Town, South Africa. The Team finished 4th, going Following Sue’s departure, I stepped into the position down to Chinese Taipei 3-2 in a thrilling encounter in of Acting CEO. The Softball Australia Board and staff the bronze medal game. have been very supportive during this time of transition. The Australian Open Women’s Team, Aussie Spirit, competed in the Canadian Open International The departure of several key staff members resulted in Women’s Fastpitch tournament where they finished in new appointments. We welcomed Joanne Paez 3rd place. The Team then moved on to Oklahoma (USA) (Softball Batter Up Coordinator), Trisha Bennett for the World Cup of Softball VI where they finished in (National Community Coach Coordinator) and Hari 4th place. Prasad (Financial Coordinator) and the return of Kylie Bloodworth (Membership and Marketing Coordinator) The Australian Open Men’s Team, Aussie Steelers and and we look forward to their contribution. the Australian U19 Men’s Team, Aussie Colts, travelled to Parana, Argentina. The Aussie Colts competed in the In February, Jenny Cassidy was appointed as the Acting IV International Men’s Softball Tournament, while the Manager High Performance Pathways to oversee the Aussie Steelers competed in a separate tournament. High Performance area until a full review of the Both teams finished 1st in their divisions. This event program has been completed in early 2013. provided our Aussie Colts with valuable experience in Internal staff restructuring was undertaken to address the lead up to the ISF IX Junior Men’s World administrative and operational requirements. Championship to be held in Parana in November 2012.

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Congratulations to the NSW Firestars for taking out . initial work to implement opportunities identified both the Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield in the Market Insights Project, 2012 National with a nail-biting finish against the ACT Diamonds 2-1. Softball Survey and Segmentation Final Report This is the first time a team has won both the Gilley’s The next phase will be to achieve short term priorities Shield and the Edebone-Weber Shield in the same year. to maintain momentum and progress inclusion of the ACT retained the John Reid Shield (Open Men) while following categories: NSW successfully defended the Elinor McKenzie Shield . finalise the new membership categories with our (U19 Women) making it six in a row. Qld was this year’s Member States winners of the Nox Bailey Shield (U19 Men). NSW continued their domination in the junior age groups . sign-off MOUs with key national partners identified winning both the Esther Deason (U17 Girls) and Arthur above Allsopp Shields (U17 Boys). Congratulations to all . finalise key processes, such as registration, revenue participants! and data flow Congratulations to Helen Strauss (Qld), the first . finalise member benefit packages and fee structures Australian umpire at an ISF World Championship to be for each category of membership appointed as the plate umpire for a gold medal game. . draft a Membership Policy (consistent with clause Helen is also the first Australian to represent her 5.5.7 of our Constitution) that supports the country as a national player and umpire at an ISF World expansion of Softball Australia’s membership model Championship. Congratulations also to Yvonne Kahler . develop a communication plan to explain the (Qld) who was appointed second base umpire in the features and benefits of the new model to all Championship final. stakeholders; to demonstrate value for money and to encourage eligible potential members to join

Capacity building . ensure the National Membership Database and A significant decline in membership was again recorded other relevant programs (SBU, SCCP, Social Softball, in 2011-12. To address this major issue, work etc) will accommodate new membership categories commenced with the establishment of the . apply the knowledge gained from the Market Membership Review Project Team. The purpose of the Insights Project, for example, optimal price points, Project Team is to address the decline in participation preferred benefit packages and communication and membership by developing a more inclusive channels membership model. Through extensive consultation, Softball Australia, in partnership with the ASC, engaged the Project Team identified individual and institutional the services of Sport Business Partners to conduct (associate) membership categories which could substantial market research in identified high priority realistically be implemented. areas. The research aimed to provide information to Some of the key achievements of the Project Team in Softball Australia to strengthen the delivery and the past 12 months were: commercialisation of the sport. Sport Business Partners provided their final National Softball Survey and . development of individual and associate Segmentation Report. The report provided membership categories considerable insight into the perceptions and . development of a new membership model to be expectations of the Softball community, including presented to the Member States current and former members, and the broader . preparation of Memorandums of Understanding Australian community. (MOUs) with key national partners – the Australian Softball Australia is now utilising the information to Defence Force, Special Olympics Australia, School identify strengths and weakness within the Softball Sports Australia and Australian University Games market when we address our new membership model. . ensuring alignment of the new national database with existing and proposed Softball programs and membership model

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Sustainability . identified and recruited volunteer SCCP Coaches to deliver the pilot programs in each state and Our national events provide an opportunity to established baseline numbers for FY12 and FY13 (as showcase our sport, promote the sport and enhance part of planning/pilots) spectator involvement. Last year we established the . finalised the national ISP strategy and the Event Review Committee to evaluate and review all membership model for remote Indigenous aspects of the current national events program. The communities, launched the ISP program in intention of the review was to develop an effective, on 23 March with MOU sign-off in Northern commercially viable and sustainable national events Territory, South Australia and Western Australia program. . 7,896 ISP participants through various initiatives Michael Shields, Softball Victoria Board Member, was appointed to conduct interviews throughout Australia In High Performance: with coaches, officials, administrator, participants and . delivery of six National Catchers and Battery Camps spectators to seek feedback regarding our national in ACT, NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA events program. The report indicated a need for similar . development and implementation of a national standards across all tournaments, provide a better Strength and Conditioning program for Open and focus on our volunteers and to improve the overall U19 atmosphere of these events to engage and attract more spectators. . review and restructure of the National Elite Development program with the focus on the Daily The Event Review established short, medium and long Training Environment (DTE) term goals that need to be finalised in consultation . establishment of a National Coaches Leadership with our Member States, such as: group, which includes the formation of the . trial combined events (eg U17 Boys and Girls same National Coaching Committee and establishment venue) or Gilley’s Shield and U17 Girls of the Battery Reference Group with work

. a review of the national events calendar, including commencing on the National Softball Coaches all Softball events (international, national and state) Guidelines with the purpose of improving the current schedule

. trial a proposed event model at one event, eg U17

. develop a full working document for a centralised event program which includes procedures, processes, costings and case studies

Our deliverables

Over the past 12 months we have achieved many of our Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). In participation:

. finalised the Softball Batter Up (SBU) program and Kids Zone for associations and clubs and delivered 25 pilot programs, with 1,517 SBU participants taking part

. appointed a National Community Coach Stacey Webber Coordinator and three coordinators to develop the Stacey Webber (Qld) was one of the standouts for the SCCP resources Aussie Pride team with impressive statistics that included a . conducted four Softball Community Coach pilot batting average of 0.556, a huge 14 RBI display from 6 games programs to compile feedback on the induction (6 singles, 1 double and 3 home runs) and a slugging average course resources and delivery methodology. of 1.111 Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography.

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Building partnerships and engagement of stakeholders

Our partnership with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and engagement with our Member States is vital to Softball Australia’s future growth and viability in this ever change sporting environment. I would like to acknowledge the ongoing support and assistance of the ASC’s David Crocker, Kim Williams, Andrew Pratley, Peter Topp, David Simpson, Jonathan Grady, Michael McGovern, Holly French, and numerous others who, behind the scenes, continue to support our many programs and initiatives. We continued to work closely with the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to deliver our Indigenous Softball Program to remote communities in rural and regional Australia. I would also like to acknowledge the staff and volunteers of all host associations who conducted national championships and events during 2011-12. An enormous amount of hard work goes into providing the facilities and infrastructure for such events to take place. It would also be remiss of me not to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful band of loyal partners and sponsors:

. Australian Sports Commission

. Australian Institute of Sport

. Easton/Addlon Trading

Our people

My appreciation is extended to the directors, staff and volunteers of Softball Australia and our Member States who continue to make an invaluable contribution to the management and governance of the . Their hard work, dedication and passion cannot be underestimated and will continue to be required as we take Softball forward together. Softball is heading into a new era both on and off the diamond. While we wait for a decision regarding the joint Baseball/Softball submission to the International Olympic Committee for the 2020 program, it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to unite and tackle the immediate challenges confronting us. These challenges include ensuring that the game stays relevant for the next generation and provide quality participation and pathway opportunities for both the recreational participant and future national team representatives.

Indigenous Role Model, Jeff Goolagong (ACT), Open Men’s Team, Aussie Steelers

Looking forward

Our five year strategic plan has provided the sport with a foundation for sustained growth and reform. We will continue to deliver our KPIs over the next 12 months:

. implement the first stage of the revised or new national events program

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. deliver the initial stage of the new inclusive membership and participation model

. provide a new Member State website and updated national website

. deliver a fully integrated national membership database

. full implementation of the Softball Community Coach and Softball Batter Up programs in every state and into schools

. deliver a nationally coordinated Daily Training Environment which achieves National Coach expectations

. achieve top three results at ISF World Championships

. deliver a National Battery program

. expand the social inclusion program to include recreational and corporate slow pitch opportunities

. achieve a budget surplus and transparent financial reporting processes

. develop and implement the first stages of the National Community Umpiring Program We are now focused and determined to achieve the challenges before us! Chet Gray Acting CEO

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Message from the Australian Sports Commission

The Australian Government is committed to increasing participation in sport and for our high performance athletes to excel on the world stage. Sport not only inspires and unites; it also promotes community involvement and active lifestyles. The Olympic and Paralympic Games is an exciting time for Australians and highlights the substantial contribution of sport to the Australian community, from athletes competing in the Games to those involved in weekend club competition and social play, as well as parents and volunteers. Australia’s performance at the London Olympic and Paralympic Games is the culmination of extensive long-term efforts across the Australian high performance sector. Following the Games, there will be opportunity to celebrate our success and critically review our next steps to ensure we focus and align our efforts to deliver the best possible results on the world stage. It is two years since the Australian Government delivered its new vision for sport through Australian Sport: The Pathway to Success. As a result the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) received an increase in recurrent funding. Since then, we have focused on implementing our new plans, delivering key programs, supporting national sporting organisations (NSOs) to deliver participation and high performance outcomes while also assisting with building there capacity and improving collaboration, alignment and effectiveness within the Australian sport sector. The 2012 Budget delivered a continuation of the Active After-school Communities program. This will enable primary school-aged children across the country the opportunity to embed sport and physical activity into their daily life. We will continue working with sporting organisations at all levels to ensure the program provides maximum value to sports and supports the transition of program participants into local clubs. The Prime Minister’s Olympic and Paralympic Challenges were a unique way for primary school children to capture the Olympic spirit and create their own Olympic journey. This initiative encouraged and inspired children to get active, have fun and earn rewards. This, coupled with participation programs delivered by NSOs, continues the Australian Government’s commitment to ensuring greater access to the benefits of sport. The support received from the Australian Government for Australian sport is essential and plays an integral role in connecting our young sporting participants with their dreams of podium success in the future. This is an exciting and challenging time for Australian sport. The Australian Sports Commission looks forward to working with sporting organisations, state and territory institutes and academies of sport and departments of sport and recreation, to promote access to, and participation in sport. Together we can promote an active lifestyle and develop sporting champions now and into the future.

Mr David Gallop Acting Chairman Board of the Australian Sports Commission

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Softball Australia’s Strategic Plan

Purpose . demonstrate governance and management Softball Australia's purpose is to: leadership, excellence, accountability and good . be the dynamic and innovative leader of Softball in stewardship Australia . deliver marketing and business development . engage, support and inform all Softball excellence (promotion, communication, stakeholders information and commercial acumen)

. raise the profile, standing of, and participation in . provide quality people (staff, volunteers, players, Softball coaches, officials), facilities, equipment, technology . support and deliver quality competitive and and other non-financial resources recreational Softball opportunities locally, . establish a robust and sustainable financial base nationally and internationally that enables us to invest in the future of Softball

Vision Strategic objectives

We will be the world’s number one Softball nation, By 30 June 2014, we will achieve the following strategic providing exciting competitive and recreational objectives: opportunities to a rapidly expanding and diverse . Membership of more than 60,000, with an annual membership and to communities across Australia. growth rate of 10% Values . A high level of member awareness, engagement and satisfaction with the performance of Softball . collaborative & cooperative Australia and their Softball experience . supportive & responsive . Significant growth in participation and take-up of . inclusive & equitable Softball Australia and Member State activities, . open & transparent including competitions, social activities, and . innovative & creative training, development and accreditation programs

. flexible & dynamic . A high level of positive awareness, recognition, understanding, support and engagement from . professional & respectful funding-bodies, the media, general public, sponsors, . proactive & enthusiastic commercial partners and other sporting bodies . accountable & ethical . Staff and volunteers who will be highly engaged, . competitive & tenacious motivated, skilled, respected and service focused

. An Australia-wide network of international, Strategic themes national and community facilities to enable us to Softball Australia will achieve its purpose and vision by deliver a great Softball experience focusing on the following strategic themes that will . A portfolio of successful and viable competitions, underpin all our objectives and initiatives. We will: programs and services

. build a vibrant, diverse, satisfied and growing . Up-to-date technology in place to assist with:

membership, Softball community and other key . our knowledge and understanding of our stakeholders (our market) stakeholders . adopt an innovative and integrated ‘whole of sport’ . efficient development and delivery of our approach to Softball (our product) programs, products and services

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. effective communication and the sharing of Technical

information . finalise the National Facility audit, Facility

. efficient management of the business of Softball Management Guide and Softball Field Guidelines . increase coaching and officiating accreditation by . Best practice governance and management across 5% all levels of the sport . Softball Community Coaching Program to build the . Current and relevant policies and regulations community coach workforce by 10% induction . Quality marketing and business development to courses nationally, targeting 500 participants support the promotion, development and delivery . complete National Events Review and develop a of Softball across Australia three year implementation plan . Stable, viable and sustainable finances to support Technology the continued growth and development of Softball . deliver the CRM System and implement the Key initiatives in 2012/13 Membership Database with all remaining Modules to Members States, associations and clubs (as The following key initiatives are to be delivered over required) the next 12 months in order for Softball Australia to deliver on our strategic objectives. Internal business process – optimisation Marketing and Business Development Market – member value proposition . all Member State Constitutions aligned with Community Participation Softball Australia governance principles . establish baseline figures for various Softball . finalise the Membership Policy, new members and participation programs participants categories and fees structure . deliver several participation initiatives to achieve . develop Corporate Marketing Plan and implement over 10,000 participants promotional plans for Indigenous Softball Program, Membership Softball Batter Up, national teams and Softball . increase Softball membership by 4% and convert Community Coaching Program

unaffiliated participants to members . restructure Softball Australia’s Working . finalise MOUs with Australian Defence Force, Committees and develop directors’ portfolios in School Sport Australia, Australian University Sport, line with office management staff Special Olympics and Masters programs Financial – shareholder value proposition . develop the association and club performance audit and recognition programs and implement the . achieve a budget surplus with a bank reserve and first stage of a national community officiating maintain cash flow at a minimum $50,000 program . implement an efficient and transparent financial control system and reporting process that is Organisational capacity – organisation value transparent, which includes a viable debt collection proposition procedure High Performance

. Open Women's and U19 Men’s Teams to achieve a top three finish at ISF World Championships

. Open Men's Team to achieve a gold medal at the ISF World Championship

. deliver the Daily Training Environment (DTE) programs in Member States

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Jessie Meyers (NSW) celebrating her home run at the IX ISF Junior World Championships, South Africa Image courtesy Matthew Horne

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Organisational Structure

Softball Australia Directors Dennis Cullen (Chairman) Vicki Lahey (resigned 28 June 2012) Annette Fidge Michelle Nancarrow John Hollingsworth Selwyn Williams Ashley Klein (resigned 14 May 2012) Helen Langenberg

Management team Chief Executive Officer Sue Noble (left June 2012) General Manager Operations & Technical Chet Gray (commenced Acting CEO 28 June 2012) Manager High Performance Pathways Julie Anderson (left January 2012) Jenny Cassidy (commenced as Acting in February 2012) Membership & Business Development Manager Matt Cairns (left June 2012) Marketing & Business Development Coordinator Lauren Boland (left October 2011) National Events Coordinator Michael Chard Finance Coordinator Nina Xu (left November 2011) Replaced by Hari Prasad Australian AIS Women’s Program Coordinator Kylie Moulds eCommunications Coordinator Helen Davis Special Projects Manager Rafael Martins School & Club Development Coordinator Phil Hazlett (left September 2011) Social Inclusion Coordinator Tim Hatzi Administration Coordinator Tracey Duscher National Community Coaches Jenny Cassidy & Raelene Jeffrey (left June 2012) Honorary SAL Historian Margo Koskelainen OAM Australian AIS Women’s Head Coach Kere Johanson Membership & Marketing Coordinator Kylie Bloodworth (commenced November 2011) Softball Batter Up/National Community Coach Joanne Paez (commenced May 2012) National Community Coach Coordinator Trish Bennett (commenced October 2011)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 14 Our Committees

Our Committees

High Performance Committee National Scoring Committee Julie Anderson (Softball Australia staff) Michael Hannelly – Chief Statistician (NSW) Jenny Cassidy (Softball Australia staff)) Carolyn Buttsworth (NSW) Chet Gray (Softball Australia staff) Ngaire Huston (Qld) Selwyn Williams (Softball Australia Director) Lindy Rattigan(SA) Michelle Nancarrow (Softball Australia Director) Chris Trengove (Vic) Kere Johanson (AIS/Open Women’s Head Coach) Mary Walkinshaw (Vic) Sue Nisbet (Qld) Bob Harrow (Open Men’s Coach) National Events Committee Paula McGovern (U19 Women’s Coach) John Neilsen (U19 Men’s Coach) Julie Anderson (Softball Australia staff) Terry Downes (Qld) Michael Chard (Softball Australia staff) Kylie Bloodworth (Softball Australia staff) Participation Committee Jenny Cassidy (Softball Australia staff) Sue Noble (Softball Australia CEO) Chet Gray (Softball Australia staff) Lauren Boland (Softball Australia staff) Mike Hannelly (NSW) Matt Cairns (Softball Australia staff) (Qld) Selwyn Williams (Softball Australia Director) Tricia Sibraa (Qld) Vicki Lahey (Softball Australia Director) Sheryl Burnie (Tas) Evelyn Seabourne (Tas) Shirley Schneider (WA) Nikkie Molander (Qld) Technical Committee Lindy Rattigan (SA) Raelene Jeffrey (Softball Australia staff) Julie Anderson (Softball Australia staff) Chet Gray (Softball Australia staff) Marketing & Business Development Committee Dennis Cullen (Softball Australia Director) Sue Noble (Softball Australia CEO) Ken Culpitt (ACT) (resigned November 2011) Lauren Boland (Softball Australia staff) Mike Hannelly (NSW) Matt Cairns (Softball Australia staff) Tricia Sibraa (Qld) Helen Davis (Softball Australia staff) Margo Koskelainen (Vic) Ray Carter (Vic) Ashley Klein (Softball Australia Director) Selwyn Williams (Softball Australia Director) National Umpiring Committee Roger Maddern (Vic) Tricia Sibraa – National UIC – Operations (Qld) Membership Committee Leigh Evans – UIC – Technical (Vic) Debbie Grove – UIC – Development(Vic) Sue Noble (Softball Australia CEO) Yvonne Kahler (Qld) Matt Cairns (Softball Australia staff) Darren Sibraa (Qld) Dennis Cullen (Softball Australia Director) Bridget Cameron (Qld) (November 2011) Vicki Lahey (Softball Australia Director) Kyira Cox (NSW) (November 2011) Susan Rindfleish (NSW) Amanda Houison (NSW) Noelene Elvish (NT) Mark Jeppesen (Qld) History & Recognition Committee Roger Maddern (Vic) Ken Culpitt (ACT) Cathy Kerr (NSW) Neville Lawrance (SA) Audrey McLaughlin AM (Qld) Margo Koskelainen OAM (Vic) Lorraine Ireland (Vic) Shirley Schneider (WA)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 15 New Branding for National Teams

Softball Australia announces new branding for national teams

In May 2012, the new team logos for our national teams were unveiled. The logos complete a review of the Softball Australia national team brand after the redesign of the team uniforms with new uniform supplier, Kukri. The graphic components are unique to each team. They have their own style and energy and represent the values of each national team with a refinement of existing shapes (Aussie Steelers and Aussie Colts) and the creation of new logos (Aussie Spirit and Aussie Pride). The Aussie Spirit leadership group, (NSW), Jodie Bowering (Qld) and (WA) had a great deal of input into the design, with the logos representing the five core values of the team Aussie Spirit Vice Captain, Jodie Bowering says ‘The new logo compliments not only the values and objectives of the team and to be allowed the input to the new logos gave the girls a sense of ownership to the Aussie Spirit direction moving forward.’ The Aussie Steelers and Aussie Colts maintain the integrity of the previous logos with the images of the kangaroo and colt, both formidable animals, strong and tough like our World Champion teams

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High Performance

Harnessing the knowledge and expertise of our national head coaches to develop the high performance initiatives will strengthen our vision for closer alignment of all programs.

With change comes innovation and diversity. . Shane Hughes, Head Coach Australian U19 Women, Aussie Pride To ensure ongoing success on the international stage, Softball Australia is striving to create an elite . Gary Butler, Australian U19 Men environment for our teams to achieve success. One of Aussie Colts our 2011/12 priorities was to provide a robust training . Vicki Bingley, Head Coach and competition schedule to prepare our athletes, Australian U17 Girls coaches and officials for their World Championship . Kathy Horton, Head Coach campaigns. Other priorities included: Australian U17 Boys . establish a National Leadership Advisory Group The National Coaching Leadership Advisory Group has comprising all national head coaches appropriate leadership to provide effective program . closer alignment of both our men and women’s governance and management. They will assist with the programs direction of our identified priorities for all national

. provide succession planning to ensure sustainable programs. Harnessing the knowledge and expertise of long term success our national head coaches to develop the high performance initiatives will strengthen our vision for . review our National Elite Development Program closer alignment of all programs. We would like to implementation plan acknowledge and thank all members of the High . introduce a National Strength and Conditioning Performance Working Group for their time and programs for U17 boys and girls commitment to Softball. . in consultation with National Head Coaches and Member State, establish a DTE model to be National Head Coaches delivered to accommodate each program’s requirements Kere Johanson

. develop the National Coaching Guidelines for state AIS Australian Open Women based DTE coaches Bob Harrow Australian Open Men National Coaching Leadership Advisory Shane Hughes (March 2012) Group Paula McGovern (December 2011) The National Coaching Leadership Advisory Group Australian U19 Women replaces the formerly appointed High Performance John Neilsen Working Committee. Committee members are: Australian U19 Men . Kere Johanson, Head Coach Kathryn Horton Australian Open Women, Aussie Spirit Australian U17 Boys . Bob Harrow, Head Coach Australian Open Men, Aussie Steelers Vicki Bingley Kere Johanson AIS Australian Open Women

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Bob Harrow Page | 17 Australian Open Men

Shane Hughes (March 2012) High Performance

Elite competition Stacey Webber (Qld) was one of the standouts for the Aussie Pride team with impressive statistics that 2011 ISF IX Junior Women’s World included a batting average of 0.556, a huge 14 RBI Championship display from 6 games (6 singles, 1 double and 3 home The Australian U19 Women’s Team, Aussie Pride, runs) and a slugging average of 1.111. Lana Tye (NSW) finished 4th at the IX ISF Junior Women’s World also displayed exceptional pitching form throughout Championship held in South Africa from 7 -17 the World Championship, notably striking out 12 December 2011. It was a closely contested competition batters in the semi-final against Chinese Taipei. with the team only losing games to the three eventual 2011 Canadian Open Fastpitch International medal winners – USA, Japan and Chinese Taipei. Championships and World Cup of Softball VI

Australia commenced the World Championship The Australian Open Women’s Team, Aussie Spirit, campaign with a 12-1, 5 innings victory against Russia in competed in the Canadian Open Fastpitch front of a strong crowd of Aussie Pride supporters. The International Championship in Vancouver from 9-17 match was highlighted by a 3 run home run hit by July 2011 and the World Cup of Softball VI in Oklahoma rd Jessica Meyers (NSW) in the 3 innings. from 21-25 July. The team finished 3rd and 4th The following day saw an unpredictably tight respectively, playing 19 games over 15 days and encounter against Brazil, with Australia winning 3-0. completing a vital part of their preparation for the 2012 The team was defeated on day 3 by the 2nd ranked XIII ISF Open Women's World Championship. Japanese team 7-2, the second innings proving to be the difference between the two teams as Japan scored 4 runs from 5 hits. Australia went on to win the final three round games, with a 10-0 win over Germany, a spectacular 9-4 win over Chinese Taipei and 7-0 win over Argentina. Australia finished in second position of pool B, earning a double chance in the finals series where they met the defending champions, the USA. Although defeated by the USA, there were a number of noteworthy performances from the Aussie Pride defense, committing only one error all game. Pitchers Lana Tye (NSW) and Ellen Roberts (NSW) combined for 5 strike outs. With a second chance on offer and progression to the final four at stake, Australia defeated New Zealand 7-0 in 6 innings. Australia was courageous in the play-off for the bronze medal, going down 3-2 in the 9th innings to a stronger opponent in Chinese Taipei.

Vanessa Stokes (SA) pitches at Round 1 Gilley’s Shield Image courtesy Neil Medland

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Other events champion Australian teams. Softball Australia and the AIS Head Coach, Kere Johanson, coordinate a network Test Series: Australia v New Zealand of coaches in each state to assist in the provision of At the conclusion of the Edebone-Weber Shield in expert contemporary coaching and training. Canberra, Aussie Spirit and the New Zealand White Sox Seven AIS training camps were conducted during the competed in a three game Test Series. Australia took year to support the national team in the lead up to the out the series 3-0, defeating New Zealand in the final 2012 XIII ISF Open Women's World Championship held game 8-0. Christina Kreppold (WA), Kara Murphy (NSW) in Yukon, Canada from 13-22 July: (SA) and Marina Walker (Vic) played for Australia for the first time. . AIS pre-tour Camp, Blacktown, NSW, 2-3 July 2011 Australian based athletes and coaches attended a International Challenge Series: Japan v two day training camp prior to departure for the Australia Canadian Open Fastpitch International Championships in Vancouver. At the completion of Gilley’s Shield Round 4 at Blacktown Olympic Park (NSW), a squad of 20 athletes . AIS Induction Camp, AIS Canberra, ACT, 8-11 were selected to compete against Japan in a 7 game September 2011 series in Canberra from 21-24 March 2012. The Series The athletes were addressed by acting AIS CEO, Phil allowed both teams to use the competition as a final Borgeaud, and were provided with anti-doping and selection event for the 2012 XIII ISF Open Women's nutrition information. The Aussie Pride joined the World Championship. camp as part of their final preparation for the IX ISF Junior Women’s World Championship held in South The Japanese team consisted of the number one Africa, 7-17 December 2011. women’s pitcher, Yukiko Ueno, and fellow 2008 . AIS Pre and post Gilley’s Shield, Round 1 Camps, 26 Olympic gold medallists, Yukiyo Mine, Rei Nishiyama and 31 October 2011 and Eri Yamada. . AIS Pre Gilley’s Shield, Round 2 Camp, 24 November Japan took out the series 5-2, with Australia finishing 2011 strongly in the last game to win a spectacular game 6-5. . AIS Camp, Blacktown, NSW, 2-4 March 2012

Securing the number two world ranked team and . AIS Camp, West Beach, SA, 2-4 June 2012 reigning Olympic Softball gold medallists for a test Twelve athletes and national coaching staff series leading into the World Championship was a attended this final camp prior to departure to the great achievement for Softball Australia and testimony US and Canada. to the strength of Australian Women’s Softball on the . AIS pre-tour Camp, Oklahoma University, 24-26 world stage. June 2012 Stacey Porter (NSW) was awarded Most Valuable Seventeen athletes and national coaching staff Player of the series, playing in all 7 games, hitting 3 attended the Camp. home runs with a batting average of 0.421. In December 2011, 25 of the available 28 AIS Scholarships were selected to the Australian Open AIS Women’s Softball Program Women’s Squad. Scholarships were awarded on an The AIS Softball Program was established in 1993 and eight month basis with the intention of providing has been a major factor in the strength and success of sports medicine and science support to recipients, as Australian Women’s Softball. The purpose of the well as access to the facilities of the AIS and the State program is to provide a Daily Training Environment Sports Academies and Institutes in ACT, NSW, Qld, Vic, (DTE) for elite female athletes, that supports the WA and SA. development of world class players and nurtures

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Events Review

In February 2011, the Softball Australia Board endorsed a proposal to undertake a comprehensive review of Softball Australia’s National Events program. In the initial phase of the review, key stakeholder interviews were conducted to gather information to identify what was, and wasn’t working Recommendations were prepared for discussion and approval by the Softball Australia Board. Members of the Event Review Working Group were:

. Kylie Bloodworth (Softball Australia)

. Michael Chard (Softball Australia)

. Chet Gray (Softball Australia)

. Cathy Kerr (Softball NSW)

. Sue Nisbet (Softball Qld)

. Trevor Schorer (Softball WA)

. Mike Shields (Softball Vic)

. Steve Trzcinski (Softball SA) The Group will recommend future event mix, structure and process, through:

. scoping all aspects of the current Australian Championship program with a view to implementing an effective, commercially viable and sustainable program that is more attractive to participants, spectators, business partners, funding bodies and the media

. the evaluation and introduction of new event concepts eg the Australia Cup concept arising from the Softball commercialisation and research projects On behalf of High Performance, I would like to thank all staff members, volunteers, team staff and Member States for their ongoing passion, dedication and support of all our national squads and teams. For Softball in Australia to continue to move forward, it is critical we attract, develop and retain a hard working network of coaches, mangers and support staff. To guarantee ongoing success on the international stage, Softball Australia also recognises the outstanding support of our key stakeholders, particularly the ASC and AIS. This support allows our national teams to participate in elite international events, whilst endorsing a High Performance training environment for coaches and athletes throughout Australia.

Paula McGovern Paula McGovern was appointed Head Coach of the Australian U19 Women’s team, Aussie Pride, in 2008. For the past 7 years, Paula has been a national selector for the Australian Open Women's Program, four of those years as chair of the U 19 Women's Selection panel. A valued member of the High Performance Working Committee, Paula assisted Softball Australia in the development of resources, providing feedback on coach education and delivering coaching courses to a range of coaches and teachers over a 10 year period. Paula’s commitment to developing young athletes and her passion for the game is unquestionable. A career highlight was leading the team at the IX Junior World Championship, South Africa, December 2011.

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Membership

The Membership Review Project has provided Softball Australia with a clear way forward …

Our Members

This statistical snapshot of membership provides a brief picture of Australia-wide participation in mainstream programs within our associations and clubs. It must be noted that the trend of decline in traditional membership has continued in 2011, whilst the Membership Review Project has yet to implement strategies to arrest this state. Positively, it is worth noting that Western Australia has resisted a nation-wide trend, recording growth in excess of 17%, on the back of strong increased female participation.

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Membership Management Plan providers of Softball outside of the traditional The membership management plan has provided sport structure impetus for the creation of a Membership Review Project Team, overseen by Michael Shields (Vic): . development of a proposed member rewards scheme and new business model . Sue Rindfleish (NSW) . alignment of the new national database with . Mark Jeppesen (Qld) existing and proposed Softball programs and . Bob Nicholson (SA) membership model

. John Milbourne (Tas) . initial work to implement opportunities identified . Jenny Holliday (Vic) in the Market Insights project, 2012 National Softball Survey and Segmentation Final Report . Trevor Howard (WA)

. Andrew Pratley (ASC) This work is seen as an essential complement to the new membership model, the impact of which will be . David Simpson (ASC) enhanced as the sport continues to accept changes to The Project Team has progressed work on priorities in the status quo. the last 12 months with a focus on implementing strategies identified in the past year to help arrest the Market research decline in membership. In November 2012, the key action will have been achieved, with the presentation The 2012 National Softball Survey and Segmentation of a new membership model to Member States at the Final Report provided considerable insight into the Softball Australia Annual General Meeting for their perceptions and expectations of the Softball consideration. community, including current and former members, and the broader Australian community. Softball In addition, further outcomes have been advanced, Australia will use the report to shape not only the new including: membership model, but the development of initiatives . preparation of Memorandums of Understanding that supplement the model and strengthen the overall with key national partners, that include significant position of the sport.

Looking forward

Softball Australia is presented with an opportunity to not only address the trend of membership decline, but at the same time, the perceived weaknesses of the current sport structures. The Membership Review Project has provided Softball Australia with a clear way forward. To complement the Project in 2012/13, Softball Australia will continue to expand the Softball Batter Up, Indigenous Softball and Softball Community Coaching Programs. In addition, possible future initiatives, such as Little League, will provide a broader experience for membership.

Jodie Bowering, Aussie Spirit Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

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Membership breakdown

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Membership breakdown (cont’d)

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Membership breakdown (cont’d)

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Membership breakdown (cont’d)

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Member Recognition

2011 Softball Australia Awards and Honours Dinner

The 2011 Softball Australia Awards and Honours Dinner was held at the Rooty Hill RSL on 18 February 2012 following the conclusion of the John Reid and Gilley’s Shield Championships. Joyce Lester, Olympian and member of the Softball Australia Hall of Fame, was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies. Two very special presentations were made during the evening – Darryl Clout was formally recognised for his 2010 Life Membership and Bob Harrow, Australian Open Men's Head Coach, was inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame.

2011 Softball Australia Awards and Honours Dinner Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

2011 Softball Australia Award Winners

Award Winners State Junior Male Athlete of the Year Mitchell Brownlow NSW Junior Female Athlete of the Year Georgia Casey NSW Statistician of the Year Chris Trengove Vic Administrator of the Year Chris Heron NT Coach of the Year Darrin Crisp NSW Local Association of the Year Waverley Softball Association Vic Indigenous Athlete of the Year Stacey Porter NSW Male Athlete of the Year Andrew Kirkpatrick ACT Female Athlete of the Year Stacey Porter NSW 2011 Spirit Award Andrew Kirkpatrick ACT 2011 Vivienne Triplett Umpire of the Year Award Scott Rindfleish NSW

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2011 Softball Australia Service Awards

The Softball Australia Service Award recognises significant contributions to Softball. It is made to any member (player or non-player) who has given at least 10 years noteworthy service to Softball in Australia.

State Winners

NSW Michelle Cate, Carlye Doney, Beryl Foster, Maree Hayden, Carol Jones, George Norrish, Michelle Nohotima, Janne Trigg

Qld Sandra Gierke, Chris Edards, Jamie Ogden, Lorraine Rylatt, Barry Sandford

Vic Bev Allan, Ellen Dimitrijevic, Robyn de Sachau, Henry de Sachau, Sandra Evans, Esther Lightowler, Danny McCarthy, Coralee McMenomy, Rhonda Rowe, Brendan Shatwell, Stan Tolmie, Karl Willmott, Di Waller, Phil Waller

2011 ISF Hall of Fame inductees

The ISF Hall of Fame was established to recognise outstanding performance both on and off the Softball field. Nominations are made by the National Association or Federation and all nominees must meet the selection criteria. In 2011, three Australians – Bob Harrow, Paul Maisey and Peta Edebone – were inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame.

Bob Harrow Paul Maisey Peta Edebone

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Peta Edebone

Peta Edebone is known for her courage, dedication and commitment to the pursuit of success. She began her representative career when she was chosen for the Victorian U16 Team in 1984 and played for three years in the junior ranks. Peta represented the Victorian Open Women’s team for a total of 15 years, including captaining the team from 1994-2004. In 1993, Peta won the Sybil Turner Medal for Best Batter at the Australian Open Women's Fastpitch Championship and, in 1997 at the same event, won the Midge Nelson Medal for Most Valuable Player. In 1992, Peta made her debut in the Australian Open Women's Team at the Challenger Cup in Beijing, as the 160th player to represent Australia. She played at three ISF World Championships, in 1994 in Canada (bronze), in 1998 in Japan (silver) and in 2002 in Canada (5th). Peta also played in three Olympic Games – 1996 in Atlanta (bronze), 2000 in (bronze) and 2004 in Athens (silver). She was highly regarded as one of the world’s leading batters and defensive players in the positions of 1st base and outfield. At the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Peta equalled the then Olympic Record of four home runs. From 1998- 2000 she was Vice Captain of the Australian Open Women’s Team and in January 2001, was given the honour of captaining the Australian Open Women's Team, a position she held until her retirement. Peta retired having played a total of 328 international matches for the Australian Open Women's Team, at the time making her the second most capped Australian player ever behind Sally McCreedy (356 caps). In 2008, Peta was inducted into the Softball Australia Hall of Fame.

Peta Edebone (left) with Haylea Petrie after winning the Bronze Medal after the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games

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Bob Harrow

Bob has dedicated 20 years of service to Softball in Australia, particularly to the elite women’s and men’s programs. Since 2000, Bob has been Head Coach of the Australian Open Men’s team, the Aussie Steelers, achieving great success, including winning the 2009 ISF XII Open Men’s World Championship. Further to his involvement with Australian National teams, Bob has also influenced the national elite competition. Following the 1986 ISF VI Women’s World Championship, and the Australian Men’s debut at the 1988 ISF VII Men’s World Championship, he recognised the need for another tier of elite national competition. His vision included both male and female programs, which aimed to maximise the opportunities for top tier and emerging Australian players to gain high quality competition. Bob’s vision resulted in the National Fastpitch Softball League, conducted from 1989 until 1996. Over the seven seasons the League operated, it attracted more than 750 players, 200 umpires and 75 statisticians. The League was an invaluable developmental breeding ground for males and females aspiring to represent their country. It was particularly vital for the women’s development pathway, with the potential for participants to be a part of the first Australian Women’s Olympic Softball team. Throughout Bob’s decorated career he has been recognised at numerous levels. In 2009 after the Aussie Steelers World Championship win, he was inducted in the Softball Australia Hall of Fame. In 2010, he was honoured with Softball Australia Life Membership and has been awarded both Softball Australia and ACT Coach of the Year honours.

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Paul Maisey

Paul debuted for the Aussie Steelers, in New Zealand, in 1995. He was the 32nd male player to represent Australia and played in 24 international tournaments. During his career, he played in three World Championships – 1996, 2000 and 2004 – winning a bronze medal in 2004 with the Aussie Steelers. Paul retired from international competition after the 2006 Commonwealth Men’s Championships. Following his retirement, Paul continued to play at state level, representing Victoria until 2008. He led Victoria to multiple national titles in 17 years, at the same time receiving individual batting awards. Paul has also made a significant contribution at club level, helping to establish Metrans Softball Club in Melbourne. He continues his strong association with Softball by coaching and mentoring young players. Paul was inducted into the Softball Australia Hall of Fame in 2011 for his outstanding services to Australian Softball over a career spanning 15 years.

Images courtesy TruView Photography

James Brooks, Kris Kiefel and Paul Maisey at the 2006 Commonwealth Men’s Championship

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Retirement

Josh Davison Softball Australia Hall of Fame inductee, Josh Davison, announced his retirement this year. Davison was inducted into the Softball Australia Hall of Fame in 2008 after an outstanding international career. In 2009 he was part of the Aussie Steelers team who were inducted into the Softball Australia Hall of Fame after their World Championship title. Davison effectively had two Softball careers. Josh was the 31st player to represent Australia, his debut tournament was under Head Coach, Barry Blanchard at the 1995 NZ Provincial Championship. He represented Australia for five years until he decided to retire from the game in 2000. A decision to return to the game and play the John Reid Shield in 2009 for his new state, Queensland, ignited a successful return to the sport for Josh Davison. His performance at this tournament earned him selection in the Aussie Steelers team for the 2009 ISF World Championships, where the Aussie Steelers created history by winning the World Championship title. Head Coach, Bob Harrow speaks on the impact Josh made to the Steelers program: ‘Josh is one of the most dedicated & rejuvenated athletes that have been involved in the Steelers program for many years and his training methods and desire are second to none. He proved to be one of the quickest and most disciplined left handed batters in the game. I can still visualize the moment when Josh executed perfectly the Hard Slap that rocketed by the Blacksox infield to score Michael Tanner in the World Championship final.’ Former Aussie Steelers Captain, Mike Harrow speaks of the great qualities Josh has on and off the field. ‘Davo brought many great qualities to the Steelers team and to the game of Softball. He was always a tough but fair competitor, and had that great combination of speed and power. He was extremely versatile and he truly loved the game! Josh played to win, but was always smiling and having a great time – I think that is what makes him such a tough person to replace on any team.’ On announcing his retirement to his team, Davison words to his Aussie Steelers teammates and the Softball community show the passion he has for the sport and his Aussie Steelers team mates: ‘My involvement within the Aussie Steelers family has been nothing short of unbelievable and unforgettable. A whirlwind of memories and moments will be talked about at ballparks around the world and in our homes forever. The feeling we created in becoming World Champions in 2009 I will never let go, the moment Adam (Folkard) struck out Donny Hale was a truly sensational moment for everyone involved. I started counting the outs from about the 4th innings because once the Steelers scored our first run I could see it in everybody's eyes that we were going to win this thing, we were all that determined it was scary. Since coming back into the team the culture within the Steelers unit is something to experience, I mean the discipline, direction and resilience all players and officials displayed has been First and World class, it’s a credit to all involved.’ The whole Softball community congratulates Josh for an outstanding career.

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Softball Australia mourns a talented athlete

On 30 May 2012, Softball Australia lost one of its up and coming stars, Lisa Pitt. Lisa will be fondly remembered as a friendly, kind hearted person and an extremely talented West Australian Softballer. She was a member of the 2011 Softball Australia International Youth Cup Squad and 2012 U19 Australian Women’s Squad. In 2012, Lisa was also nominated for Softball Australia’s Indigenous Athlete of the Year. Lisa was joint winner of the Most Valuable Player Award for her performances in the Western Australia U17 State team at the 2011 Australian U19 Women’s Championship, Esther Deason Shield. As a result, she was named in the Western Flames Squad in September 2011. Lisa received the Town of Port Hedland and ITOCHU Junior Athlete of the Year Award for her achievements with Softball in December 2011. She will also be remembered as a fantastic role model, delivering Softball clinics to students at Marble Bar Primary School and juniors from the Port Hedland Softball Association

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Taylah Tsitsikronis (NSW) playing for Aussie Pride in South Africa. Image courtesy Matthew Horne

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Coaching

Our coaches continue to make an outstanding course resources. The resources developed for each contribution to an individual’s experience and long program consist of the Participant’s Manual, Deliverer’s term participation in the sport. Our volunteer coaching Guide, Assessment Booklet and presentation. Levels 1-3 workforce should continue to be recognised and have now been approved by the ASC and form part of acknowledged for the exceptional work, delivering a the National Coaching Accreditation Scheme (NCAS). positive and fun experience to our members. Forty-six coach accreditation courses were conducted This past year has seen the implementation and across the country. The majority of new coach progression of coach education, development and accreditations were achieved through a combination accreditation. These advances will build a workforce of face-to-face courses and online learning, which that supports a positive and inclusive Softball gives coaches the opportunity to complete their experience. accreditation at their own pace. The total number of accredited coaches at 30 June 2012 is 2,052, broken Accreditation and professional development down as follows: Work has continued over the last 12 months to update the existing Level 2 and 3 National Coach Accreditation

Coaching National ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WA Level 1 1,040 25 609 11 145 22 0 179 49 Level 2 456 27 291 3 45 1 0 49 39 Level 3 445 17 237 4 110 1 3 71 5 Level 4 60 6 10 0 35 2 0 3 4 Level 5 48 4 22 0 1 10 0 11 0 Level 6 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 Total 2,051 79 1,171 18 336 36 4 313 97

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Coaching and Team Manager appointments

At the 2011 International Youth Cup, the following coaches were appointed to the Australian Development teams:

Team Coach Team Manager Australian U19 Women Paula McGovern (Vic) Aussie Gold U19 Girls Annette Fidge (SA) Ian Deany (Vic) Vicki Bingley (NSW) Cheryl Waye (Vic) Alan Bain (ACT) Aussie U17 Girls Vicki Bingley (ACT) Faye Guy (Qld) Maurice Paraha (Qld) Australian U19 Men John Neilsen (NSW) Aussie Green U19 Boys Gary Butler (WA) Jodie Sheehan (NSW) Tony Jackson (NSW) Adam Sheehan (NSW) Aussie Gold U19 Boys Sandra Evans (Vic) Jodie Sheehan (NSW) Alan McNulty (NSW) Adam Sheehan (NSW) Aussie U17 Boys Scott Sullivan (WA) Colleen Franks (NSW) Robert Cook (SA)

During the event, nightly coaching information sessions were conducted on Mental Preparation and Performance, Athlete Testing Procotols, The Short Game Strategy and Nutrition for Softball.

Looking forward

A National Technical Conference for coaches, umpires and statisticians is planned for May 2013 at the AIS. The main objectives of the conference will be to provide professional development opportunities, as well as conducting joint sessions on topics relevant to both coaches and officials. Several Softball specific modules of the Level 4 Coach Accreditation course will be delivered in early 2013, including pitching and catching, baserunning and defensive strategies.

Chantelle James (WA), Assistant Coach, Aussie Pride Image courtesy Matthew Horne

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Scoring

The National Scoring Committee (NSC) continues to work behind the scenes, ensuring that the technical field of scoring is continuous. In addition, the NSC provides guidance and direction to the State Directors – and this is well supported by regular teleconferences, which have replaced the weekend conferences. The NSC has continued to support National events throughout Australia with official statisticians providing results, web reporting and official statistics for Softball Australia selectors and teams. The NSC has also supported Member States with reference materials for the delivery of ongoing training.

National team scoring appointments

The following statisticians were appointed to international Championships:

. Mary Walkinshaw (Vic) 2011 Open Women’s Tour, Canadian Open International Women Fastpitch in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada

. Helen Edwards (Vic) 2011 IV International Men’s Softball Tournament Open Men’s in Parana, Argentina

. Sarah Thompson (NSW) 2011 U19 Men’s Team IV International Men’s Softball Tournament Open Men’s in Parana, Argentina

. Kirsty Andrews (Qld) 2011 ISF XI Junior Women’s World Championships in Capetown, South Africa

. Helen Edwards (Vic) 2011 ISF Oceania Men’s Qualifier at Hawker International Softball Complex Canberra, ACT

. Lynne Townsend (NSW) 2012 International Softball Challenge (ACT)

Australian Championship Chief Statistician appointments

The following Chief Statisticians were appointed for the 2011/12 Australian Championships: Arthur Allsopp Shield, Australian U17 Boys' Championship (Vic) Helen Edwards (Vic) and Mary Walkinshaw (Vic) Esther Deason Shield, Australian U17 Girls' Championship (Tas) Sandra Palmer (NSW) and Angela Forgan (Vic) Nox Bailey Shield (ACT) Australian U19 Men's Championship Matt Denkel (Qld) Elinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women's Championship (WA) Lorraine Davies (Vic) Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield Australian Open Women's Championship Chris Trengove (Vic) – Gilley’s TCS Round 1 (Vic) Ray Carter (Vic) Round 2 (Qld) Christine Denkel (Qld) Round 3 (ACT) Chris Trengove (Vic) Round 4 (NSW) Kaye Greggs (NSW) John Reid Shield, Australian Open Men's Championship (NSW) Kaye Greggs (NSW) ISF Open Men’s Oceania Qualifier (ACT) Lorraine Davies (Vic) Test Series: Aussie Spirit and NZ White Sox (ACT) Lynne Townsend (NSW) International Softball Challenge (ACT) Lorraine Davies (Vic) International Friendship Series (NSW) Kaye Greggs (NSW)

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Accreditation and professional development

The number of accredited scorers continues to grow with a 34% increase through the National Officiating Accreditation Scheme (NOAS) in the past year. The State Directors of Scoring continue to recruit, train and deliver scoring programs across the country. The total number of scorers is 1,649 (30 June 2012), an increase of 566 on 2011.

Level National ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WA Level 1 1,254 10 800 2 115 85 25 121 96 Level 2 177 5 68 0 14 10 5 58 17 Level 3 143 5 33 0 44 21 6 33 1 Level 4 75 2 25 0 21 4 6 9 8 Total 1,649 22 926 2 194 120 42 221 122

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Scoring courses

Member State summaries of scoring courses undertaken (does not include individual NOAS accredited scorers updating their accreditation currency).

ACT NSW Qld SA Vic Tas WA Courses delivered 2 20 2 4 9 1 3 Level 1 (new) 3 85 - 20 42 - 16 Level 2 (upgrade) 1 25 1 3 18 1 - Level 3 (upgrade) - 1 - 4 6 - - Level 4 (upgrade) - 1 5 - - 1 1

NOAS Level 4 candidates, assessed by the NSC Quality Assurance officer, (for period 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012) were:

. Sean Francis (Qld)

. Chris Fraser (NSW)

. Norm Johns (Tas)

. Lynette Eltoft (WA)

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National Quality Assurance Program

Quality assurance is undertaken following all national games, assessing both paper scoring, and electronic methods.

Arthur Allsopp Shield, Australian U17 Boys' Championship (SA) 34 games played, 6 scorers reviewed

Esther Deason Shield, Australian U17 Girls' Championship (Vic) 64 games played, 7 scorers reviewed

Nox Bailey Shield, Australian U19 Men's Championship (Vic) 34 games played, 5 scorers reviewed

Elinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women's Championship (NSW) 46 games played, 7 scorers reviewed

John Reid Shield, Australian Open Men's Championship (Qld) 34 games played, 8 scorers reviewed

Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield, Australian Open Women's Championship 82 games played, 32 scorers reviewed

Resources

The National Scoring Committee was able to complete the following resources over the past twelve months:

. a National rules exam was developed with assistance from the National Umpiring Committee

. all accreditation manuals and NOAS scoring programs have now been updated and approved by ASC

. all scoring accreditation resources on the Softball Australia website have been updated. The remaining information is under full review.

Management

The management of Softball Australia’s National Scoring Program is overseen by the National Scoring Committee, comprising:

Chief Statistician Michael Hannelly (NSW)

Scoring Staff Lindy Rattigan (SA) Mary Walkinshaw (Vic) Ngaire Huston (Qld) Chris Trengove (Vic) Carolyn Buttsworth (NSW)

State Directors of Scoring Lyn Lalas (ACT) Kaye Greggs (NSW) Matt Denkel (Qld) Lorraine Davies (Vic) Lindy Rattigan (SA) Lynne Eltoft (WA)

The NSC, supported by Softball Australia’s General Manager Operations and Technical, Chet Gray, has undertaken significant work, holding four teleconferences in August, October, March and June. Key projects include a review and update of the NOAS Level 4 in accordance with ASC requirements. The NSC has overseen the appointment process for all Australian Championship Tournament Chief Scorers and the website reporting of all Australian Championship results and the National Quality Assurance program. The National Chief Statistician, Mike Hannelly (NSW) oversaw the process of Australian team appointments.

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The NSC will continue its busy program in 2012/13, including:

. compiling statistics from the 2012/13 Australian Championships

. reviewing the career pathway for scorers to ensure they have the skills and experience to meet the future requirements

. revising and updating the scoring manuals and course requirements

. developing a community officiating program to support the recruitment and retention of scorers at club level

Recognition

The NSC extends their congratulations to Chris Trengove (Vic), the winner of the 2011 Softball Australia Statistician of the Year.

Image courtesy Greg Heron

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Umpiring

Softball Australia’s National Umpiring Program (NUP) championship, ways to improve communication has been held in high regard on the international scene including how regular Blues News Online (BNOL) for many years and the National Umpiring Committee should be published, and umpire accreditation (NUC) were delighted when two of its most including the latest news received from ISF in relation outstanding umpires were appointed to the final of the to when and how umpires are appointed to World 2011 ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championships gold Championships and development. medal game: Accreditation and professional . Helen Strauss (Qld) was appointed as the Plate Umpire development . Yvonne Kahler (Qld) was appointed as the Second This year, the NUC completed 3 Umpire Rotation Base Umpire System document, Level 3 and 4 Umpire Manual, These two appointments are an indication that the Tournament Chief Umpire Manual, Community Umpire program is continuing to produce umpires of the Manual, Attending National/International highest quality through the hard work of many people. Championship Document and Mentoring Document. The next step will be to have these manuals accredited The State Directors of Umpiring meeting was held at by the Australian Sports Commission. Softball Australia’s office in August 2011. A range of topics were covered throughout the meeting including umpire survey results from each national

The total number of active accredited umpires is 1,255 (30 June 2012), broken down as follows:

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Umpiring National ACT NSW NT SA Qld Tas Vic WA Level 1 799 9 148 12 66 325 7 197 35 Level 2 222 8 31 6 29 83 3 39 23 Level 3 115 6 24 0 12 32 3 16 22 Level 4 45 1 6 1 5 21 2 4 5 Level 5 22 2 5 0 2 8 0 4 1 Level 6 40 1 12 0 3 11 0 10 3 Level 7 3 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 Level 8 9 0 2 0 3 1 0 3 0 Total 1,255 28 228 19 120 482 15 274 89

Advanced Umpire Clinic Georges River Softball Association, NSW 2-3 July 2011 An Advanced Umpire Clinic was presented by Scott Rindfleish (NSW), with the assistance from Ron Houison (NSW) and Yvonne Kahler (Qld) at Georges River Softball Association in July. Six participants from three states attended:

. NSW Andrew Compton, Adrian Rampoldi, James English and Krissi Travers

. Vic Richard Dodds

. WA Steven Gunter Participants were allocated games at the International Friendship Series and were observed by senior umpires who evaluated their performances.

Level 5 accreditation

The following umpires attained their Level 5 umpire accreditation at the conclusion of their respective Australian Championships: Esther Deason Shield James English (NSW), Haydyn Wood (SA) Australian U17 Girls’ Championship

Arthur Allsopp Shield Richard Dodds (Vic), Jamie Harries (Qld) Australian U17 Boys’ Championship Elinor McKenzie Shield Norelle Thomas (Qld) Australian U19 Women’s Championship

Level 6 accreditation

The following umpires attained their Level 6 umpire accreditation at the conclusion of their respective Australian Championships: Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield Bridget Cameron (Qld), Jay Gibson (NSW), Jana McCaskill (Qld) Australian Open Women's Championship

Nox Bailey Shield Trevor Murphy (Vic) Australian U19 Men's Championship

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Umpiring exam

In May 2012, a total of 341 umpires sat the 2012 National Rules Exam, a 13% decrease from 2011.

. ACT – 13 umpires sat the exam, a 18.75% decrease from last year

. NSW – 101 umpires sat the exam, a 5% decrease from last year

. NT – 0 umpires sat the exam, a 100% decrease from last year

. Qld – 63 umpires sat the exam, a 25.8% decrease from last year

. SA – 51 umpires sat the exam, a 9% decrease from last year

. Tas – 6 umpires sat the exam, a 70% decrease from last year

. Vic – 59 umpires sat the exam, a 12% decrease from last year

. WA – 42 umpires sat the exam, a 9.52% increase from last year The National Rules Exam uses a database of more than 2,000 questions compiled by Leigh Evans (Vic), with the support of Graham Bancroft (WA) and Darren Sibraa (Qld).

Supplementary umpire exams

A supplementary exam was made available for Level 3 umpires and above who could not attend the National Rules Exam. SA x 1 65% pass NSW x 2 83% and 87% pass QLD x 3 83%, 81% and 79% pass Graham Bancroft (WA) has again assisted with specific rules tasks, in particular updating supplementary exams with new rules, online reference exams and proofing the basic exam rule references. The Softball Australia Basic Rules Exam for Levels 1 and 2 umpires was released in May 2010. Umpires can sit the exam any time up until 30 April 2012. The Exam provides greater flexibility and an easier pathway for entry level umpires to the umpiring program.

ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WA

Nil 41 7 63 18 20 42 12

The process was overseen by Darren Sibraa (Qld), with the support of Jesse Smith (NSW) and Bridget Cameron (Qld).

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Five year trend

ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WA 2008 19 128 4 133 42 28 63 44 2009 19 150 4 122 46 18 66 46 2010 7 106 4 98 54 14 62 40 2011 16 106 2 85 56 20 67 42 2012 13 103 0 63 51 6 59 46

Exam analysis

The NUC again used the analysis spread sheet developed by Matt Gowty (Qld), Softball Australia Hall of Fame member The data key was to be used to supply the National Registrar with the ability to update the national database. The data will identify active and non-active umpires for the currency and accreditation requirements for the ASC. The NUC would like to acknowledge Darren Sibraa (Qld) for providing support and feedback on technical aspects of the program, Alan McAuliffe (SA), Darrell Shephard (NSW) and Graham Bancroft (WA) for help and support in delivering the technical stream of the National Umpiring Program.

Umpiring resources

Amanda Houison, UIC Communication, has been responsible for the production and distribution of Blues News Online (BNOL) every month. BNOL has covered both international and national events, from an Australian perspective, and looking forward, will include more grassroots news items. The umpiring section of the website is constantly being updated. The Umpire Honours & Awards page is now available, highlighting our umpires achievements and appointments.

Leigh Evans (Vic) Darren Sibraa (Qld) Scott Rindfleish (NSW)

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Umpiring appointments Australian Championship appointments

During the 2011/2012 Australian Championships, the following umpiring appointments were made:

Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shields Round 1 Shields Round 2 Shields Round 3 Waverley, Victoria Brisbane, Queensland Hawker, ACT Debbie Grove (Vic) – TCU Patricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCU Patricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCU Leigh Evans (Vic) – E Leigh Evans (Vic) – E Ian Frame (Qld) – E Ian Frame (Qld) – E Debbie Grove (Vic) – E Richard Barrow (Vic) Kevin Broomhall (Vic) –part-time David Casey (Qld) Bridget Cameron (Qld) Bridget Cameron (Qld) Ian Frame (Qld) Jason Carter (Vic) Jason Carter (Vic) Leanne Gearside (NSW) Kyira Cox (NSW) David Datson (SA) Jay Gibson (NSW) Mark Gallagher (ACT) Stacey Loveridge (Vic) Yvonne Kahler (Qld) Stephen Gutteridge (Qld) Vicki Lansley (NSW) Liz Kawana (NZ) Neville Lawrance (SA) Darrell Paul (NZ) Jana McCaskill (Qld) Jana McCaskill (Qld) Helen Strauss (Qld) Damien McCauley (SA) Glen Nalepa (NZ) Stuart Tyler (Vic) Trevor Murphy (Vic) Ryan Thorneycroft (Vic) Steve Wallace-Yarrow (SA) Darren Sibraa (Qld) Steve Wallace-Yarrow (SA) Phil Waller (Vic) Howard Watt (NSW) Diane Waller (Vic) Esther Deason Shield Australian Arthur Allsopp Shield Australian Elinor McKenzie Shield Australian U17 Girls’ Championship U17 Boys’ Championship U19 Women’s Championship Hobart, Tasmania Altona, Victoria Mirrabooka, WA Darren Sibraa (Qld) – TCU Debbie Grove (Vic) TCU Dianne Waller (Vic) – TCU Amanda Houison (NSW) – E Ron Houison (NSW) – E Ian Frame (Qld) – E Phil Waller (Vic) – E Darrel Shephard (NSW) – E Amanda Houison (NSW) – E James English (NSW) Richard Barrow (Vic) Peter Baker (WA) – part-time Leanne Gearside (NSW David Casey (Qld) David Datson (SA) Stephen Gutteridge (Qld) Richard Dodds (Vic) Warren Duff (WA) George Norrish (NSW) Jay Gibson ( NSW) Leanne Gearside (NSW) Kevin Offer ( Vic) Jamie Harries (Qld Yvonne Kahler (Qld) Ryan Thorneycroft (Vic) Stacey Loveridge (Vic) Vicki Lansley (NSW) Steve Wallace-Yarrow (SA) Jana McCaskill (Qld) Neville Lawrance (SA) Peter Walsh (Qld) Trevor Murphy (Vic) Norelle Thomas (Qld) Haydyn Wood ( SA) Chris Trengove (Vic) Chris Trengove (Vic) Ron Yardley (Qld) Stuart Tyler (Vic) Stuart Tyler (Vic) Nox Bailey Shield Gilley’s Shield Final John Reid Shield Australian U19 Men's Blacktown, NSW Australian Open Men’s Championship Blacktown, NSW Hawker, ACT Patricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCU Diane Waller (Vic) – TCU Patricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCU Leigh Evans (Vic) – E Kyira Cox (NSW) Leigh Evans (Vic) – E Darren Sibraa (Qld) – E Ian Frame (Qld) Trevor Murphy (Vic) – E David Casey (Qld) Leanne Gearside (NSW) Kevin Broomhall (Vic) Mark Gallagher (ACT) Amanda Houison (NSW) part-time Warren Duff (WA) Ron Houison (NSW) Ron Houison (NSW) part-time Debbie Grove (Vic) Trevor Murphy (Vic) Yvonne Kahler (Qld) Andrew Rindfleish (NSW) Kevin Offer (Vic) Neville Lawrance (SA) Gavin Shepherd (NZ) Andrew Rindfleish (NSW) Helen Strauss (Qld) Darren Sibraa (Qld) Scott Rindfleish (NSW) Phil Waller (Vic) Howard Watt (NSW) Jesse Smith (NSW) Mark Toft (Qld) Martin Turnbull (Qld) Phil Waller (Vic)

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International umpiring appointments

. Leigh Evans (Vic) and Darren Sibraa (Qld) represented Australia on the ISF Standards Committee to review and assist with the technical presentation and rules, which is an ongoing role with the ISF.

. Leigh Evans (Vic) and Kevin Broomhall (Vic) has completed the review of the ISF Four Umpire Rotation System.

. Darren Sibraa (Qld) was appointed to umpire at the IV International Men’s Softball Tournament, Parana City, Argentina in September 2011.

. Kevin Broomhall (Vic) was appointed to the Australian U19 Men’s Team, Aussie Colts who also toured Argentina.

. Leanne Gearside (NSW) was appointed to the 2012 Women’s Open Club Championship, Lower Hutt, New Zealand in March 2011.

. Trevor Murphy (Vic) was appointed to the 2012 New Zealand Men’s Open Club Championship, Auckland, New Zealand, in March 2011.

. Yvonne Kahler and Helen Strauss were appointed to the ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championship in Cape Town, South Africa, in November 2011.

. International Softball Challenge – Australia v Japan Women’s Test Series held in Canberra in March 2012. Leigh Evans (Vic) was appointed as the TCU with Howard Watt (NSW), Darrell Shephard (NSW), Phil Waller (Vic), Jason Carter (Vic), Warren Duff (WA) and Alex Turnbull (ACT).

. ISF Open Men’s Oceania Qualifier held in Canberra in December 2011. Patricia Sibraa (Qld) acted as the Softball Australia Technical Delegate/Competition Manager and Deputy UIC. The TCU for the Qualifier was Wayne Saunders (NZ) Oceania UIC, with Leigh Evans (Vic), Debbie Grove (Vic), Darren Sibraa (Qld) and Scott Rindfleish (NSW) as the umpiring crew.

. Ron Houison (NSW) was appointed to the 2012 USA World Cup of Softball VII, Oklahoma, USA in June 2012. 2011 International Youth Cup appointments

The Softball Australia International Youth Cup in July 2011 was staffed by 30 umpires from New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Queensland and New Zealand, varying in accreditation from Level 1 to international umpires. Tournament Chief Umpire, Leanne Gearside (NSW), was assisted by Leigh Evans (Vic), Yvonne Kahler (Qld) and Kevin Tannebring (SA). Video recordings taken during the tournament were used to provide feedback to individual umpires. Seventy games were officiated by 28 umpires,with all games covered using the three man rotation system.

State Umpire

Qld Yvonne Kahler

NSW Andrew Compton, Matthew Guillaumier, Vicky Armsworth, Jessica Donald-Smith, Ron Houison, Brian Higginbottom, Joe Kelleimeier, Adrian Rampoldi, Myles Lego, Lyn Moncaster, Tony Moncaster, Dylan Murdoch, Scott Rindfleish, Sarah Pierson, Thomas Sutomo, Rebecca Taylor, James Townsend, Krissi Travers, John Walker, Brianne Watt, Brooke Whitfield, Todd Winsor, Christiaan Zaiter

NZ Tony Kaiaruna

SA Kevin Tannebring

Vic Leigh Evans

WA Steven Gunter

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2011 Australian Regional U15 Championship

The 2011 Australian Regional U15 Championship was held at Rockhampton in July 2011. Tournament Chief Umpire Amanda Houison (NSW) was supported by deputies Ian Frame (Qld) and David Casey (Qld) with Brett Atkinson (ACT) and Kevin Offer (Vic) umpire mentors. Development umpires for the program were:

ACT Ian Dehlsen, Di Kropp

NSW Colin Tutt, Alf Chapman, Rhett Eldred, Dale Kaimoana, Rob McIntosh, Simon Ross

Qld Neville Baggow, Alan Georg, Janelle Hicks, Kylie Knight, Jesse O’Brien, Gary Wright, Thomas Rivers

Vic Kevin Offer

WA David Roper

The two umpire system was used in all round games. The three umpire system was used for the semi-finals, preliminary finals and the grand finals.

Management

The NUC comprises:

. Umpires-in-Chief: Patricia Sibraa (Qld) (Operations), Leigh Evans (Vic) (Technical), Debbie Grove (Vic) (Development) and Amanda Houison (NSW), (Communications)

. four national umpiring staff: Darren Sibraa (Qld), Kyira Cox (NSW), Bridget Cameron (Qld) and Yvonne Kahler (Qld)

. eight State Umpiring Directors: Scott Rindfleish (NSW), Darren Sibraa (Qld), Alex Turnbull (ACT), Richard Barrow (Vic), Wayne Clarke (Tas), Neville Lawrance (SA), Roy Cox (WA) and Cathie Allen (NT)

Recognition

Congratulations to Scott Rindfleish (NSW), the winner of the Vivienne Triplett Umpire of the Year for 2011 and Amanda Houison who was appointed Umpire in Chief – Communications in October 2011.

Looking forward

. Fifteen umpires have applied for advanced training in preparation for the next ISF certification development clinic to be held in New Zealand in 2014

. The Umpire Technical and Mechanics Bulletins will be published to the Softball Australia website to ensure that all umpires are aware of all rule changes and umpire mechanics changes

. The first draft of the practical Assessors Manual for umpire accreditation advancement from Levels 2-6 has been completed and it is envisage the manual will be completed by June 2013

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Helen Strauss (Qld) umpiring at the ISF IX Junior Women’s World in South Africa Image courtesy Matthew Horne

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Technical Delegates

The role of the SAL Technical Delegates at Australian Championships is to ensure the conduct of the Championship is in accordance with the Softball Australia Championship Regulations and Hosting requirements. The following Technical Delegates were appointed for the 2011/12 Australian Championships: Esther Deason Shield (Tas) Australian U17 Girls' Championship Alan McAuliffe (SA) Arthur Allsopp Shield (Vic) Australian U17 Boys' Championship Leon Leach (Qld) Elinor McKenzie Shield (WA) Australian U19 Women's Championship Ken Culpitt (ACT) Nox Bailey Shield (ACT) Australian U19 Men's Championship Leon Leach (Qld) Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield R1-R3 (Vic, Qld, ACT) Kylie Bloodworth (Vic) Australian Open Women’s Championship Gilley's Shield R4 and Finals Kylie Bloodworth (Vic) Australian Open Women’s Championship John Reid Shield (NSW) Open Men’s Championship Leon Leach (Qld) ISF Open Men’s Oceania Qualifier (ACT) Patricia Sibraa (Qld) International Softball Challenge (ACT) Margo Koskelainen OAM (Vic) Aussie Spirit NZ White Sox Test Series (ACT) Kylie Bloodworth (Vic) International Friendship Series (NSW) Harvey Milson (NSW) U15 Regional Championships Michael Chard (Softball Australia)

Action at the 2012 John Reid Shield at Blacktown International Sportspark Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

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Community Participation

Softball Australia is committed to expanding Softball programs in targeted urban, rural and remote areas across Australia.

Indigenous Softball Program Softball Australia and our Member States have a long A bat, painted by Angelina Doolan and a ball, painted and proud history of promoting and delivering Softball by Kira Briscoe, students from the Worawa Aboriginal to Indigenous Communities. Our Indigenous Softball College, Healesville, Victoria, were presented by Program produces positive health and social outcomes Softball Australia Director, Helen Langenberg, to by providing female and male of Andrew Leigh Federal Member for Fraser and Phil all ages and abilities with opportunities to participate Borgeaud, Deputy Director, Strategy and Relations, in Softball – as players, coaches, umpires, Australian Institute of Sport. administrators and volunteers. With Softball generally recognised as the preferred sport of Indigenous 2011/12 ISP facts women, and becoming increasingly popular amongst . 7,870 participants involved in Indigenous Softball Indigenous men, we are committed to expanding Program activities Softball programs in targeted urban, rural and remote . 150 Softball Program activities delivered areas across Australia. . 150 participants involved in managing Softball The purpose of the program is to increase participation programs and competitions of Indigenous Australians from targeted urban, rural . 160 participants completed coaching/officiating and remote areas in all facets and levels of Softball by: accredited training . embedding Softball as the sport of choice for . 100 participants with a disability involved in Indigenous women Indigenous Softball Program activities . positioning Softball as an attractive option for Indigenous men

. supporting government health and wider policy objectives

. working with Indigenous communities to help them become self-sufficient, so they can continue to develop and deliver their own events and programs. Softball Australia officially launched the Indigenous Softball Program Strategy in Canberra on 23 March 2012. Dignitaries were treated to an exhibition match involving players from the WhISPers Softball Club and Indigenous players from NSW. Ngunnawal Indigenous elder, Agnes Shea, delivered a welcome to country speech, acknowledging the players who participated in the Exhibition match, and Softball Australia’s Indigenous role models, Stacey Porter, Vanessa Stokes and Jeff Goolagong.

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ISP State highlights

Softball NT

In April, Tania Liddle (Executive Officer, Softball NT), Carrie-Anne Garling (Community Softball Officer, NT), Tim Hatzi (Softball Australia Social Inclusion Coordinator), Raelene Jeffrey (Softball Australia National Community Coach) and Trish Bennett (Softball Australia Community Coaching Program Coordinator) travelled to Hermannsburg and surrounding communities in the Northern Territory and East Arnhem communities of Yirrkala, Gapuwiyak, Umbakumba, Ramingining, Galiwinku and Milingimbi to deliver the Softball Community Coach Program (SCCP) and Softball Batter Up (SBU) initiatives to more than 1,000 Indigenous community members. Visiting these communities is vital to establishing good relationships and building rapport and confidence. The SCCP develops a network of capable coaches to deliver a variety of Softball experiences which enhance the health and social benefits of participants. The program was delivered to more than 30 coaches, providing them with the skills required to deliver programs, such as SBU. Fifteen SBU sessions were held, attracting more than 900 participants. The development of coaches in these communities is imperative to ensure regular participation in Softball, and with their newly developed skills, and enthusiasm of the children, Softball Australia is confident there will be ongoing, regular participation. A highlight of the visit was helping revive women’s Softball in Galiwinku. Since the visit, Evelyna Dhamarrandji from the East Arnhem Shire Council, took the lead and helped reform the Galiwinku women’s Softball team. The team completed training sessions to prepare for competition against Milingimbi and other community teams. Teams competing in community competitions were invited to participate in the NT Softball Championships held in Darwin.

Wanamyn Fireballs from Timber Creek at the NT Championships

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Softball WA

As a result of the Softball WA’s strong partnership with Softball SA is in contact with a number of other the Western Desert community, Softball WA invited a regional offices that have shown an interest in team from Western Desert Team to attend the Elinor developing a similar program. McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women’s Championship in Perth in January 2012. Softball for all abilities

Through the generosity of Newcrest Mining and Softball Australia has partnered with Special Olympics Softball WA covering travel and accommodation costs Australia, Special Olympics Victoria and Softball respectively, the team, coached by Aussie Spirit Victoria to provide coach development opportunities captain and Indigenous role model, Stacey Porter, for over 15 Special Schools in Victoria’s Metropolitan, participated in two exhibition matches against a Southern and Eastern Regions. Western Australian All Stars team. Looking forward, Softball Australia will deliver a To coincide with the Western Desert Team visit, Softball Community Coaching Program to more than Softball Australia arranged for Aussie Spirit Captain and 30 teachers. Teachers will learn how to develop a Indigenous role model, Stacey Porter, to attend and lesson, learn a range of new Softball activities and how work with the team. The team also attended a 2 hour to deliver them using the game-based coaching skill development clinic presented by Stacey and philosophy. It is anticipated that the teachers will Softball Australia National Community Coaches Jenny adopt these methods for their school’s Term 4 Softball Cassidy and Raelene Jeffrey which included batting, program to be delivered in November 2012, which will pitching and fielding drills. lead to the delivery of further Softball programs for The following day, the team, coached by Stacey, people of all abilities and foster links to local club participated in two exhibition matches against a programs and competitions. Western Australian All Stars team. Resources Softball SA Indigenous Softball Program Book Softball SA, in partnership with the South Australian National Football League (SANFL) delivered a Level 1 An Indigenous Softball Program Book was developed Umpire Accreditation Course in April in the Anangu and is being used to inform key stakeholders of the Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands (APY Lands) to 13 work Softball is doing with Indigenous communities Indigenous women aged 21-30 years of age. All 13 across Australia. To view the publication, go to women successfully completed the course and have http://www.softball.org.au/_uploads/res/1_66627.pdf. become accredited umpires. On a separate visit to the APY Lands in June, Softball SA and SANFL launched the new Far North West Sports League (FNWSL) Level 1 Coach Accreditation Program. This was delivered to five females, with one of the participants successfully completing all components of the course and receiving Level 1 accreditation. The FNWSL, formed on the APY Lands in the far North West corner of the state, continues to pave the way for other communities around South Australia to establish their own Leagues. The League has grown from eight teams in both football and Softball to nine for the 2012 Premiership season. Tjurma, made up of the homelands surrounding Amata, will enter the competition as the first additional team since the start of the FNWSL in 2007.

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Special Olympics Australia

Special Olympics Australia is a national, not-for-profit organisation serving approximately 4,500 people with an intellectual disability, in 250 sports clubs across Australia. Softball is one of 13 sports offered to athletes of varying abilities, from community to international level.

Special Olympics World Summer Games, Athens 2011

At the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens (25 June – 5 July 2011), Australia was again represented in the Softball competition, defending their 2007 Gold Medal. A team of 13 extremely talented, hardworking and dedicated players lived up to the Games slogan ‘I am in’, with each match being tightly contested. The Australian team played in Division 1, pitting them against tough opposition from the Dominican Republic and Canada BC. Our team came away with a bronze medal, with the gold medal won by the Dominican Republic.

Special Olympics Softball Program 2011/12

Special Olympics Australia delivered a number of Softball programs and slowpitch competitions nationally for people with an intellectual disability throughout the year, resulting in:

. 140 Softball participants registered

. 5 state-level games and the World Summer Games

. 45 coaches, umpires, scorers involved

. seasonal training and inter-club competitions (mainly with local mainstream clubs)

Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

Softball Australia, in partnership with Softball NSW and Georges River Softball Association, developed a pilot program aimed to develop relationships with Arabic speaking communities in Bankstown, NSW. Looking forward, a Softball Community Coaching Program will be delivered to the community, providing them with appropriate skills and knowledge that can be used to deliver community-based Softball events and programs to engage more Arabic speaking communities to the sport of Softball.

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Softball Community Coaching Program

The program is not designed to promote winning or technique but rather identify and support coaches through a well- constructed learning framework.

The Softball Community Coaching Program (SCCP) is a environment, which will build individual player Softball Australia initiative funded through the confidence and self-esteem. Australian Sports Commission to provide coaches with Coaches ask the participant questions about how they the appropriate information, and coaching support to think the games can be modified to make them easier deliver a Game Sense approach with a focus on or harder. This can encourage participants to engage in participation and engagement. creative thinking and problem solving. The SCCP aims to develop a network of capable CHANGE IT coaches who can deliver a variety of Softball experiences which enhance the health and social One of the most challenging issues for a coach is benefits of participants. The program is not designed to dealing with multi-age groups and/or a wide range of promote winning or technique but rather identify and abilities while still providing fun, safe and engaging support coaches through a well-constructed learning activities. The SCCP provides coaches with a tool that framework. can achieve this – CHANGE IT. All activities in the program can be made easier or harder to suit the The objective of the SCCP is to build a coaching participant. workforce with the appropriate skills and training to deliver community based Softball events and programs, Softball Australia SCCP team such as: The SCCP team consists of: . Softball Batter Up . Trisha Bennett, Softball Australia’s National . Indigenous Softball Program Community Coaching Coordinator . Culturally and Linguistically Diverse . Brooke Wilkins (Qld), National Community Coach . Disability Softball Program for NSW and ACT Participants taking part in the SCCP become actively Brooke is a former Development Officer, Softball involved in delivering activities. Each activity is then Australia Hall of Fame member and Olympian. followed by group discussion about how the activity . Bob Crudgington (Qld), Consultant could be modified to make it easier or harder to suit Bob is a former Softball Australia National Open their particular group. Women’s Head Coach, High Performance Manager and Softball Australia Hall of Fame member. As well as the Game Sense approach, the SCCP introduces participants to two other key elements: Softball Australia thanks Brooke and Bob for their assistance in developing quality resources to enable . Discrete coaching delivery of the program. Thanks also to Softball . The CHANGE IT principle Australia National Community Coaches, Jenny Cassidy Discrete Coaching allows activities to continue where and Joanne Paez who assist with implementing the possible, ensuring the activity remains engaging for all program. participants. The coach can discretely provide tips and continue to create an encouraging and supportive

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Delivery of pilot programs

Brooke delivered four pilot programs to over 50 participants in the ACT, Qld and NSW. Feedback from the pilot programs has been incorporated into all the resources, which include:

. Participants Guide

. Activity Cards

. USB wristband containing electronic resources including video clips and explanations of activities Brooke and Bob have been instrumental in the development of the SCCP and Brooke with the delivery of the pilot programs.

Moving forward

In the next financial year, Softball Australia will:

. implement SCCP in each Member State

. develop and release the website

. train 500 participants

. develop additional Activity Cards

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 59 Softball Batter Up

Softball Batter Up

Softball Batter Up introduces participants to the fundamental skills of softball through a variety of activities and games designed to developed physical fitness, social skills and an understanding of the game.

Softball Batter Up (SBU) is a Softball Australia national . pre-season training as an introduction to SBU junior participation program designed to introduce girls . Saturday mornings ‘in season’ as an introduction to and boys aged 4 to 12, to the game of Softball. SBU Tee Ball encourages fun and social interaction, where everyone . Holiday Programs and anyone can participate. The program offers participants a variety of modified games and activities, . Come ‘n’ Try Days with the focus on fun and enjoyment, skill . clinic or tabloid activities development and continued participation. . Kids Zone – an event-based program A number of successful programs were conducted Softball NT also commenced their roll out in the form throughout the year, particularly in Victoria. During of clinics, with a total of 690 participants from remote 2011-12, Softball Victoria successfully piloted SBU in a communities attending. Softball Australia has been number of metropolitan and rural associations with 717 running the SBU program as a core component of the participants attending. The programs were delivered in Indigenous Softball Program this year, increasing the various flexible formats to ensure the needs of the number of SBU participants. participants and the providers were met. These formats included: In total the breakdown of participants (by state) through the various forms of SBU was:

State Numbers ACT 50 New South Wales 50 Northern Territory 690 Victoria 717 Western Australia 70

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 60 Softball Batter Up

Softball Australia sought extensive feedback from the deliverers of the programs and their feedback has been incorporated into the updated SBU resources. Feedback from providers who have participated in the program has been extremely positive. They have recognised the great potential of the program and the ability it has to enhance the development and retention of our juniors into the future at the grassroots level. As a result, Softball Australia is confident that the SBU program is now ready for a successful national rollout. We have also been working to ensure the program will be flexible enough to meet state and association needs. Equipment purchase for participants is now optional and will provide a less expensive entry point into the program. Providers have also been offered a greater degree of flexibility in relation to purchasing equipment to run their programs. This will enhance ability to successfully roll out the program to associations and clubs in the remaining states and in the lead up to the 2013 summer season.

SBU website

The SBU website, originally launched in 2011, was redesigned in May 2012. The new website:

. enables both participants and providers to register online

. provides a dedicated areA where providers can post up-to-date information about their current and future SBU programs and other items of interest

. includes more interactive games and puzzles in the Kids section

. includes a new section for coaches, offering a wide range of coaching resources

Softball Batter Up launch in Victoria

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A new feature in 2012 will be the ‘Batter’s Box’ where children can post photos and other items of interest to share. For more information, visit the Softball Batter Up website at www.softballbatterup.com.au

Kids Zone

A new feature of the SBU program is the development of the SBU Kids Zone. Kids Zone is an event-based stream of SBU to enhance participation, designed to be delivered as a one-off special event at no cost to participants. Throughout the year, Softball Australia delivered four Kids Zones at national and international events including:

. Gilley’s Shield, Canberra, January

. Elinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women, Perth, January

. John Reid Shield and Gilley’s Shield, Sydney, February

. International Softball Challenge, Canberra, March In 2013, Softball Australia envisages that Kids Zones will be part of all national events, creating a fun, carnival-like atmosphere.

Resources

Our next major focus will be the development of resources to deliver SBU within the school environment and during AASC. These resources are being developed as an extension of the association and club resources. Softball Australia recognises that there is already a strong connection between clubs and schools and that SBU can be used as a strategy to convert school participants into club and association registrations.

Looking forward

Softball Australia will also be continuing to work in two other important areas that will further enhance the delivery of SBU. The Softball Community Coaching Program will provide the perfect platform to deliver Indigenous Softball and Special Olympics programs.

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CRM Project Update

In February 2011, Softball Australia commenced a comprehensive review of the association and club websites, addressing a number of challenges which had arisen following the launch of the national website in May 2010. The new look association and club website was released in December 2011. It provides administrators with a more user- friendly and flexible environment, including:

. Results, events and news displayed more prominently in a tabular format, centred on the home page

. The option to choose which association news to display (for clubs affiliated with more than one association)

. User-friendly display of menu headings

. Customisation of the banner, background and colours

. Optional free content areas for text and images

. Interchangeable free content area are with promotional buttons

The following table provides a breakdown of website use, identifying the number and percentage of active websites (new template) and regularly updated websites:

ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WA Inactive 10 47 0 37 12 13 26 37 New template 2 43 1 27 17 3 25 5 Old template 7 56 5 57 9 2 30 15 Regularly updated 7 29 0 10 13 0 15 2 Total active 13 99 6 84 26 5 55 20 % Active 56% 68% 100% 69% 68% 28% 68% 35% % New template* 15% 43% 16% 32% 65% 60% 45% 25% % Regularly updated** 54% 29% 0% 12% 50% 0% 27% 10% *Percentage of total active websites on the new template ** Regularly updated means new content generated in the last 1 month for associations and 2 months for clubs

National Membership Database

Website administrators have assisted throughout the year with testing the functionality of the database and providing invaluable feedback. The database will provide our administrators with the ability to organise, store and retrieve information as efficiently and effectively as possible, including the ability to:

. Search for, and automatically merge duplicate members

. Run standard reports (members by age/gender, recently registered members, member registration on a month by month comparison)

. Create reports using specific fields/criteria

. Automatically re-register existing members

Moving forward

Interfuse, our CRM System provider, recently upgraded the fusesport system to a more generic, modern format. The new look will be available when all remaining, and upgraded, Modules are released in 2013.

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 63 Teams

Teams

Australian Open Men’s Team Australian Open Men’s Team Aussie Steelers Aussie Steelers

22 September – 2 October 2011 7-8 December 2011 IV International Men’s Championship, Parana, Argentina International Softball Federation Qualifier, Canberra

Cameron Bint (NSW) William Bailey (Qld) Andrew Blackshaw (Qld) Andrew Blackshaw (Qld) Evan Byrne (ACT) Evan Byrne (ACT) Josh Davison (Qld) Drew Faulkner (Vic) Neil Delpero (Vic) Adam Folkard (ACT) David Edwards (Vic) Michael Gibson (ACT) Drew Faulkner (Vic) Joel Goodall (Vic) Shaun Goffer (Qld) Jeff Goolagong (ACT) Mark Harris (WA) Mark Harris (WA) Andrew Havercroft (WA) Andrew Havercroft (WA) Adam Humble (WA) Nathan Jones (WA) Nathan Jones (WA) Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT) Kris Kiefel (Vic) Scott Patterson (WA) Scott Patterson (WA) Nick Shailes (Qld) Jamie Sheehan (NSW) Jamie Sheehan (NSW) Lewis Weldon (Vic) James Todhunter (NSW) Lewis Weldon (Vic) Reserves Damien Nairm (Qld) Zenon Winters (ACT) Team Officials Team Officials Head Coach – Bob Harrow (ACT) Head Coach – Bob Harrow (ACT) Assistant Coach – Battery – Loran Algar (Qld) Assistant Coach – Battery – Loran Algar (Qld) Assistant Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld) Assistant Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld) Assistant Coach – Darrin Hebditch (ACT) Assistant Coach – Darrin Hebditch (ACT) Team Manager – Michael Titheradge (WA) Physiotherapist – Bernie Simai (Vic) Physiotherapist – Bernie Simai (Vic) Statistician – Helen Edwards (Vic) Umpire – Darren Sibraa (Qld)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 64 Teams

Australian Open Men’s Squad Open Men’s Squad Aussie Steelers June 2012 March 2012 Andrew Blackshaw (Qld) William Bailey (Qld) William Bailey (Qld) Cameron Bint (NSW) Cameron Bint (NSW) Andrew Blackshaw (Qld) Aaron Boccardo (WA) Evan Byrne (ACT) Mitchell Brownlow (NSW) Tim Crome (ACT) Evan Byrne (ACT) Neal Delpero (WA) Guy Covacin (Qld) David Edwards (Vic) Neil Delpero (WA) Drew Faulkner (Vic) David Edwards (Vic) Adam Folkard (ACT) Drew Faulkner (Vic) Michael Gibson (ACT) Adam Folkard (ACT) Shaun Goffer (Qld) Michael Gibson (ACT) Joel Goodall (Vic) Joel Goodall (Vic) Jeff Goolagong (ACT) Jeff Goolagong (ACT) Mark Harris (WA) Mark Harris (WA) Andrew Havercroft (WA) Andrew Havercroft (WA) Adam Humble (WA) Adam Humble (WA) Julian Jemmott (Qld) Julian Jemmott (Qld) Nathan Jones (WA) Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT) Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT) Nick Norton (ACT) Matt Norton (ACT) Brendan O’Byrne (WA) Nick Norton (ACT) Scott Patterson (WA) Brendan O’Byrne (WA) Nick Shailes (Qld) Scott Patterson (WA) Jamie Sheehan (NSW) Brad Riley (ACT) Michael Tanner (ACT) Nick Shailes (Qld) James Todhunter (NSW) Jamie Sheehan (NSW) Ryan Tranter (NSW) Michael Tanner (ACT) Lewis Weldon (Vic) James Todhunter (NSW) Zenon Winters (ACT) Lewis Weldon (Vic) Reserves Zenon Winters (ACT) Timothy Crome (ACT) Reserves Shaun Goffer (Qld) Aaron Boccardo (WA) Nathan Jones (WA) Ryan Tranter (NSW) Kris Kiefel (Vic) Subject to Fitness Guy Covacin (Qld) Kris Kiefel (Vic)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 65 Teams

Australian Open Women’s Team Australian Open Women’s Squad Aussie Spirit Aussie Spirit

2012 Test Series: New Zealand Whitesox January-July 2012 Hawker, ACT 7- 8 January 2012

Danielle Bouman (Qld) Danielle Bouman (Qld) Jodie Bowering (Qld) Jodie Bowering (Qld) Chermai Clews (WA) Karina Cannon (NSW) (NSW) Chermai Clews (NSW) Clare Currie (ACT) Michelle Cox (NSW) Leigh Godfrey (WA) Clare Currie (ACT) (Qld) Brenda De Blaes (ACT) Christina Kreppold (WA) Chelsea Forkin (WA) Stacey McManus (NSW) Leigh Godfrey (WA) Kara Murphy (NSW) Sandra Holden (Qld) (ACT) Christina Kreppold (WA) Vanessa Stokes (SA) Verity Long-Droppert (WA) Marina Walker (Vic) Zara Mee (NSW) (ACT) Jocelyn McCallum (Qld) (Qld) Stacey McManus (NSW) (SA) Monique Miller (NSW) Team Officials Aimee Murch (ACT) Kara Murphy (NSW) Head Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld) (NSW) Assistant Coach – Kelly Hardie (Qld) Stacey Porter (NSW) Assistant Coach – Kerrie Porter (NSW) (Vic) Team Manager – Chris Clough (NSW) Kate Sternes (Qld) Physiotherapist – Michael Oostryck (WA) Statistician – Mary Walkinshaw (Vic) (WA) Vanessa Stokes (SA) Kym Tollenaere (Vic) Lana Tye (NSW) (Qld) Clare Warwick (ACT) Melinda Weaver (Qld) Belinda White (SA)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 66 Teams

Australian Open Women’s Squad Australian Open Women’s Team Aussie Spirit Aussie Spirit 2012 XIII ISF Open Women's World Championship International Softball Challenge (Japan International Whitehorse, Canada Series) 13-22 July 2012 Hawker, ACT 21-24 March 2012 Jodie Bowering (Qld) Jodie Bowering (Qld) Michelle Cox (NSW) Michelle Cox (NSW) Brenda De Blaes (ACT) Brenda De Blaes (ACT) Chelsea Forkin (WA) Chelsea Forkin (WA) Leigh Godfrey (WA) Leigh Godfrey (WA) Sandra Holden (Qld) Verity Long-Droppert (WA) Verity Long-Droppert (WA) Stacey McManus (NSW) Jocelyn McCallum (Qld) Zara Mee (NSW) Stacey McManus (NSW) Aimee Murch (ACT) Aimee Murch (ACT) Kaia Parnaby (NSW) Kaia Parnaby (NSW) Stacey Porter (NSW) Stacey Porter (NSW) Justine Smethurst (Vic) Justine Smethurst (Vic) Jodie Stevenson (WA) Jodie Stevenson (WA) Vanessa Stokes (SA) Vanessa Stokes (SA) Clare Warwick (ACT) Kym Tollenaere (Vic) Melinda Weaver (Qld) Clare Warwick (ACT) Belinda White (SA) Jade Wall (Qld) Reserves Melinda Weaver (Qld) Georgia Casey (NSW) Belinda White (SA) Clare Currie (ACT) Sandra Holden (Qld) Reserve Christina Kreppold (WA) Christina Kreppold (WA) Jocelyn McCallum (Qld) Team Officials Head Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld) Assistant Coach – Kelly Hardie (Qld) Assistant Coach – Kerrie Porter (NSW) Assistant Coach – Sarah Lockett (resides USA) Team Manger – Chris Clough (NSW) Physiotherapist – Michael Oostryck (WA) Statistician – Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 67 Teams

AIS Women’s Scholarships Australian U19 Women’s Squad Aussie Pride December 2011- 31 July 2012 2012

Jodie Bowering (Qld) Bianca Abrahams (NSW) Karina Cannon (NSW) Allanah Alvarado (WA) Clare Currie (ACT) Madeline Cameron (SA) Brenda De Blaes (ACT) Emily Campbell (ACT) Chelsea Forkin (WA) Eva Carless (Qld) Leigh Godfrey (WA) Rebecca Chapman (Qld) Christina Kreppold (WA) Jordyn Christensen (NSW) Verity Long-Droppert (WA) Sian Colee (NSW) Jocelyn McCallum (Qld) Stephanie Curtis (Qld) Stacey McManus (NSW) Karla Davidson (NSW) Monique Miller (NSW) Annali Dolman (SA) Aimee Murch (ACT) Alice Donohoe (NSW) Kara Murphy (NSW) Brittney Flint (Qld) Stacey Porter (NSW) Mikayla Gregory (Qld) Justine Smethurst (Vic) Rachel Higgins (Qld) Carmelle Sorensen (Qld) Beth Hobden (NSW) Kate Sternes (Qld) Rachel Lack (NSW) Jodie Stevenson (WA) Jordan Lambert (SA) Kym Tollenaere (Vic) Lauren Lange (WA) Lana Tye (NSW) Mikaela Mahony (NSW) Marina Walker (Vic) Nicola Maitland NSW) Jade Wall (Qld) Julia McCann (NSW) Clare Warwick (ACT) Jessica Meyer (NSW) Melinda Weaver (Qld) Tahli Moore (NSW) Belinda White (SA) Holley Onley (WA) Jayme Reddacliff (Qld) Stephanie Trczinski (SA) Taylah Tsitsikronis (NSW) Jacinta Williams (ACT)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 68 Teams

Australian U19 Men’s Team Australian U19 Men’s Team Aussie Colts Aussie Colts 22 September – 2 October 2011 1 – 10 November 2012 Tour of Argentina in lead up to the 2012 ISF IX Junior ISF IX Junior Men’s World Championship, Parana, Men’s World Championship Argentina

Jason Cronan (NSW) Nathan Dickinson (NSW) Sam Daff (Qld) Scott Jansen (Vic) Mitchell Daly (Qld) Jeremy Jemmott (Qld) Nathan Dickinson (NSW) Kayne Kajan (NSW) Leigh Halpin (NSW) Sam Kassianou (Vic) Jeremy Jemmott (Qld) Marshall Kronk (Qld) Kayne Kajan (NSW) Kieran O’Leary (NSW) Marshall Kronk (Qld) Liam O’Leary (NSW) Christopher McClure (NSW) Nick O’Shea (Vic) Ryan Merriman (Qld) Mason Rossi (NSW) Jayson Morgan (Qld) Patrick Schipp (NSW) Liam O’Leary (NSW) Ryan Sinclair (Vic) Patrick Schipp (NSW) Jesse Taws (ACT) Ryan Sinclair (Vic) Joshua Wagner (Qld) Jesse Taws (ACT) Aaron Whitefield (Qld) Joshua Wagner (Qld) Matthew Wickham* (ACT) (replaced McClure July 2012) Jonathan Wall (Qld) Jack Hayes (Vic) Team Officials *Christopher McClure (NSW) (withdrew July 2012) Head Coach – John Neilsen (NSW) Reserves Assistant Coach – Sandra Evans (Vic) Mitchell Daly (Qld) Assistant Coach – Murray Rivers (Qld) Jamee Jones (WA) Assistant Coach – Vicki Bingley (ACT) Tom Noble (NSW) Team Manager – Jodie Sheehan (NSW) Team Officials Osteotherapist – Andrew Evans (Vic) Head Coach – Gary Butler (WA) Statistician – Sarah Thompson (NSW) Assistant Coach – Wess Frances (SA) Umpire – Kevin Broomhall (Vic) Assistant Coach – Adam Sheehan (NSW) Specialist Coach – Sandra Evans (Vic) Team Manager – Maxine Cleary (Qld) Statistician – Lindy Rattigan (SA) Physiotherapist – Rowena Toppenberg (Qld) Umpire – Kevin Broomhall (Vic)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 69 Teams

Australian U19 Men’s Squad Australian U19 Men’s Squad Aussie Colts Aussie Colts January 2012 Selected for the John Reid Shield, Australian Open

Men’s Championship 14-18 February 2012, Blacktown International Jason Cronan (NSW) Sportspark, Sydney Mitchell Daly (Qld) Nathan Dickinson (NSW) Jack Hayes (Vic) Jason Cronan (NSW) Scott Jansen (Vic) Nathan Dickinson (NSW) Jeremy Jemmott (Qld) Jack Hayes (Vic) James Jones (WA) Scott Jansen (Vic) Kayne Kajan (NSW) Jeremy Jemmott (Qld) Sam Kassianou (Vic) Kayne Kajan (NSW) Marshall Kronk (Qld) Sam Kassianou (Vic) Christopher McClure (NSW) Marshall Kronk (Qld) Tom Noble (NSW) Christopher McClure (NSW) Kieran O’Leary (NSW) Tom Noble (NSW) Liam O’Leary (NSW) Liam O’Leary (NSW) Nick O’Shea (Vic) Nick O’Shea (Vic) Mason Rossi (NSW) Patrick Schipp (NSW) Patrick Schipp (NSW) Ryan Sinclair (Vic) Ryan Sinclair (Vic) Jesse Taws (ACT) Jesse Taws (ACT) Joshua Wagner (Qld) Joshua Wagner (Qld) Matthew Wickham (ACT) Aaron Whitefield (Qld) Matthew Wickham (ACT)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 70 Teams

Aussie U17 Boy’s Squad

8-14 January 2012 At the completion of the Arthur Allsopp Shield, these players were selected in U17 Boy’s Squad to play at International Youth Cup, 2-6 July 2012.

Callum Beashel (NSW) Colton Brockhurst (Qld) Steven Dawson (Vic) Matt Dean (SA) Ayden Gough (NSW) Dean Halsey (Qld) Ben Jager (ACT) Brent James (Vic) Christopher Kacin (Qld) Jaymon King (Qld) Jayden Lach (NSW) Maclaine Lowe (NSW) Ben Lucas (SA) Hayden Masson (Vic) Hayden Matthews (NSW) David McCaskie (ACT) Josh McGovern (ACT) Jack Noble (NSW) Stuart Perry (NSW) Jarrod Polzin (Qld) Tyrell Priestley (Qld) James Purcell (Qld) Michael Robar (NSW) Izack Rossi (NSW) Cameron Short (Vic) Matthew Speirs (Vic) Samuel Spooner (NSW) Adrian Taylor (Qld) Adam Talarico (Vic) Lachlan Webb (SA) Matthew Wickham (ACT)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 71 International Results

International Results

Australian AIS Squad v New Zealand Whitesox Test Series Mirrabooka, WA 7-8 January 2012 Games

Australian AIS Squad 9 v NZ Whitesox 1 Australian AIS Squad 11 v NZ Whitesox 4 Australian AIS Squad 8 V NZ Whitesox 0

Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 72 International Results

International Challenge Series Hawker, ACT 21-24 March 2012

Games

Aussie Spirit 2 v Japan 3 Aussie Spirit 3 v Japan 5 Aussie Spirit 7 v Japan 10 Aussie Spirit 4 v Japan 7 Aussie Spirit 5 v Japan 3 Aussie Spirit 1 v Japan 7 Aussie Spirit 6 v Japan 5

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Stacey Porter (Aussie Spirit) Best Pitcher Yamato Fujita (Japan) Best Batter Misato Kawano (Japan)

ISF Oceania Men’s Qualifier Hawker, ACT 6-7 December 2011

Games

Tanifa Samoa 8 v PNG Langarons 1 Aussie Steelers 8 V PNG Langarons 0 Aussie Steelers 12 V Tanifa Samoa 4 PNG Langarons 0 V Tanifa Samoa 12 Tanifa Samoa Aussie Steelers 12 PNG Langarons Aussie Steelers 17

Aussie Steelers Head Coach, Bob Harrow, congratulates the PNG team Image courtesy Sportographs

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 73 International Results

Argentina Challenge Paraná, Argentina Open Men 22-25 September 2011

Games

1 Argentina 2 Australia 3 Parana 4 Bblanca

22 September – 2 October 2011

Games

1 Australia 2 Argentina 3 Parana 4 Combined Argentina

U19 Men 22-25 September 2011

Games

1 Argentina 2 Australia 3 Parana 4 Rcheca

22 September – 2 October 2011

Games

1 Australia 2 Parana 3 Argentina 4 Rcheca

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 74 International Results

2011 IX Junior Women’s World Championship Cape Town, South Africa 7-17 December 2011

Final placings Results for Australia

1 United States Australia 9 v Russia 1 2 Japan Australia 3 v Brazil 0 3 Chinese Taipei Australia 2 v Japan 7 4 Australia Australia 10 v Germany 0 5 Canada Australia 7 v Zimbabwe 0 6 New Zealand Australia 9 v Chinese Taipei 4 7 Brazil Australia 7 v Argentina 0 8 China 9 Czech Republic 10 Puerto Rico Playoffs 11 Argentina 12 Russia Australia 4 v USA 7 13 South Africa Australia 7 v New Zealand 0 14 Germany Australia 2 v Chinese Taipei 3 15 Botswana 16 Zimbabwe

Megan Horne bats for Aussie Pride against Russia Image courtesy Matthew Horne

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 75 Australian Championship Results

Australian Championship Results

Edebone–Weber Shield Final Hawker, ACT 4-7 January 2012

Final placings Final results

1 NSW Firestars NSW Firestars 7 v Western Australia Flames 3 2 Western Australia Flames 3 ACT Diamonds 4 Qld Heat 5 Victorian Titans 6 NZ White Sox 7 SA Starz

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Players Chelsea Forkin (WA) and Clare Warwick (ACT)

John Reid Shield Blacktown, NSW 13-18 February 2012

Final placings Final results

1 ACT ACT 2 V Western Australia 0 2 Western Australia 3 Queensland 4 Victoria 5 NSW

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Players Zenon Winters (ACT) Best Pitcher Neal Delpero (WA) Best Batter Zenon Winters (ACT Rookie of the Year James Brownlow (NSW) Player of the Grand Final Jeff Goolagong (ACT)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 76 Australian Championship Results

Elinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women’s Championship Mirrabooka, WA 15-21 January 2012

Final placings Final results

1 New South Wales NSW Firestars 4 v ACT 0 2 ACT 3 Queensland 4 Western Australia 5 Victoria 6 South Australia 7 Northern Territory

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Mikaela Mahony (NSW) Best Pitcher Brittney Flint (Qld) Best Batter Rachel Lack (NSW) Player of the Grand Final Julia McCann (NSW)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 77 Australian Championship Results

Nox Bailey Shield, Australian U19 Men’s Championship Hawker, ACT 15-21 January 2012

Final placings Final results

1 Queensland Queensland 5 v Victoria 4 2 Victoria 3 New South Wales 4 ACT 5 Western Australia 6 7

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Kayne Kajan (NSW) Best Pitcher Marshall Kronk (Qld) Best Batter Jesse Taws (ACT) Player of the Grand Final Marshall Kronk (Qld)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 78 Australian Championship Results

Esther Deason Shield, Australian U17 Girls’ Championship Hobart, Tasmania 8-14 January 2012

Final placings Final results

1 New South Wales New South Wales 3 v Queensland 1 2 Queensland 3 South Australia 4 Western Australia 5 ACT 6 Victoria 7 Tasmania

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Jordyn Christensen (NSW) Best Pitcher Stephanie Trzcinski (SA) Best Batter Beth Hobden (NSW) Player of the Grand Final Amelia Cudicio (NSW)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 79 Australian Championship Results

Arthur Allsopp Shield, Australian U17 Boys’ Championship Altona, Victoria 8-14 January 2012

Final placings Final results

1 New South Wales New South Wales 7 v ACT 0 2 ACT 3 Queensland 4 Victoria 5 South Australia 6 Western Australia

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Hayden Mathews (NSW) Best Pitcher Adrian Taylor (Qld) Best Batter Callum Beashel (NSW) Player of the Grand Final Callum Beashel (NSW)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 80 Australian Championship Results

Gilley’s Shield, Australian Open Women’s Championship Final Blacktown, NSW 16-18 February 2012

Final placings Final results

1 NSW Firestars NSW Firestars 2 V ACT Diamonds 1 2 ACT Diamonds 3 Qld Heat 4 Western Australia Flames 5 SA Starz 6 Victorian Titans

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Brenda De Blaes (ACT) Best Pitcher Sandra Holden (Qld) Best Batter Chelsea Forkin (WA) Rookie of the Year Michelle Edgtton (NSW) Player of the Grand Final Bree Brooker (NSW)

Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 81 Australian Championship Results

Australian U15 Regional Championship Rockhampton, Qld 6-10 July 2011

Final placings – Girls’ Division Final placings – Boys’ Division

1 Sydney Metro Blue 1 Sydney Metro Green 2 Sydney Metro Green 2 Sydney Metro Blue 3 Canberra Gold 3 SQ Regional Academy Storm 4 SQ Regional Academy Flames 4 SQ Regional Thunder 5 SQ Regional Academy Fire 5 SQ Regional Academy Cyclones 6 SQ Regional Academy Flickers 6 Country NSW 7 Canberra Blue 8 Country NSW 9 SEMSA

Images courtesy Pro Photo Australia

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 82 Other National Results

Other national results

International Youth Cup Blacktown, NSW (Women) 4-8 July 2011

Final placings

1 School Sport Australia 2 NSW Metro 3 Sunstate Wanderers 4 Aussie U17 Girls 5 NZ Junior Girls’ Development 6 NSW Country 7 SE Metro Vic

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Taylah Tsitsikronis (School Sport Australia) Best Pitcher Julia McCann (Aussie U17 Girls) Best Batter Michaela Mahoney (School Sport Australia) Player of the Grand Final Taylah Tsitsikronis (School Sport Australia)

International Youth Cup Blacktown, NSW (Men) 4-8 July 2011

Final placings

1 Aussie U19 Green 2 NZ Junior Boys’ Development 3 Western Civil 4 Aussie U19 Gold 5 ISA New Zealand 6 NSW Metro 7 Aussie U17 Boys 8 NSW Country

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Jesse Taws (Aussie U19 Men’s Green) Best Pitcher Marshall Kronk (Aussie U19 Men’s Green) Best Batter Mitchell Daly (Aussie U19 Men’s Gold) Player of the Grand Final Jason Cronan (Aussie U19 Men’s Green)

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 83 Other National Results

International Softball Challenge Blacktown, NSW 28-30 July 2011

Final placings

1 US Colleges 2 Australian U19 Women’s Squad 3 NSW Blue 4 QAS 5 NSW Red

Awards Award winners

Most Valuable Player Mikaela Gregory (ASSA) Best Pitcher Sandra Holden (QAS) Best Batter Georgia Casey (NSW)

Image courtesy Devan Price

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 84 Life Members/Hall of Fame

Softball Australia Life Members

Life Members are recognised for their exceptional and devoted service to Softball Australia.

Name Year State Darryl Clout 2010 NSW Bob Harrow 2010 ACT Bill Gobbart 2006 Vic Ken Culpitt 2004 ACT Alan McAuliffe 2002 SA Shirley Schneider 2000 WA Pat Rawlings* OAM 1994 NSW Margo Koskelainen OAM 1993 Vic Rosemary Adey OAM 1989 SA Pat Shearwood 1980 ACT Edna Nash* 1969 NSW Pat Young* 1968 NSW Audrey McLaughlin AM 1967 Qld Esther Deason MBE* 1966 Vic Merle Short* 1966 Vic Marjorie Dwyer* 1966 Vic *denotes deceased

Softball Australia Hall of Fame inductees

The Hall of Fame recognises Australian players and non-players who have made an outstanding contribution to the sport of Softball at the international level.

Name Year State Fiona Crawford 2010 NSW Paul Maisey 2010 Vic Marissa Warburton 2010 Qld Ken Culpitt 2009 ACT 2009 Australian Open Men’s Team Aussie Steelers and 2009 ISF World Champions Geoffrey Coultas 2008 WA Brian Flint 2008 WA Darryl Rector 2008 WA Robert Richardson 2008 NSW

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 85 Life Members/Hall of Fame

Name Year State Bill Downing 2008 WA Russell Taylor 2008 WA Josh Davison 2008 NSW Dave McKenzie 2008 WA Peter Clout 2008 NSW Sally McCreedy OAM 2008 ACT Peta Edebone 2008 Vic Brooke Wilkins 2008 NSW Kathy Mitchell 2008 Qld John McAuliffe 2007 SA Bob Crudgington 2006 Qld Matt Gowty 2006 Qld Troy Baverstock 2005 NSW Kylie Herbert 2005 NSW Alan McAuliffe 2005 SA Carol Peel 2005 NSW Haylea Petrie 2005 Qld Kim Cooper 2004 Qld Shane King 2004 Qld Kerry Dienelt 2004 NT Lindsey Carroll 2004 ACT Kellie Loughman 2004 Vic Kerrie Maddern 2004 Vic Nichole Richardson 2004 Vic Margo Koskelainen OAM 2004 Vic Joanne Brown 2004 ACT Francine McRae 2004 Qld Lindsay Anderson* 2003 WA Anthony Bull 2003 WA Laing Harrow 2002 ACT Rhonda Wills 2002 Vic Jenny Holliday 2002 Vic Joyce Lester OAM 2000 Qld Leanne Evans 1997 Vic Gaye Ledingham 1997 NSW Pat Shearwood 1995 ACT Sandra Troyahn 1995 Vic Arthur Allsopp* 1992 Vic Rosemary Adey OAM 1991 SA Pat Rawlings OAM* 1991 NSW

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 86 Life Members/Hall of Fame

Name Year State Jane Stevens 1990 SA Lorraine Brown 1989 SA Josephine Loton 1989 Vic Janine (Jan) Allsopp 1988 Vic Carol Selem 1988 NSW Vivienne Triplett* 1988 Vic Esther Deason MBE* 1987 Vic Marjorie Dwyer* 1987 Vic Merilyn Middlin 1987 Vic Joanne Paez 1987 Vic Judy Phelps OAM 1987 NSW Chris Roughley 1987 NSW Sybil Turner 1987 NSW Rhonda Boyd 1986 Vic Denise Hutchinson 1986 Vic 1965 Australian Open Women’s Team and ISF World 1985 Champions Norma Allsopp Vic Margaret Dodds Qld Bess Dornan Vic Myrtle Edwards Vic Rita Gherardin Vic Elinor McKenzie* Vic Audrey McLaughlin Qld Helena Meehan Vic Nina Menner WA Midge Nelson BEM Vic Gladys Phillips* (C) Vic Judy Pizaro* Vic Marjorie Scott Vic Merle Short* Vic Sandra Somerville Qld Margaret Swann Vic Nancy Whittingham SA Lorraine Woolley Qld *denotes deceased Hall of Fame inductees

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 87 ISF Hall of Fame Inductees

ISF Hall of Fame inductees

Name Year State Bob Harrow 2011 ACT Paul Maisey 2011 Vic Peta Edebone 2011 Vic Peter Clout 2009 NSW John McAuliffe 2009 SA Sally McCreedy OAM 2009 ACT Norma Allsopp 2005 Vic Joanne Brown 2005 ACT Ken Culpitt 2005 Qld Kerry Dienelt 2005 NT Denise Hutchinson 2005 Vic Shane King 2005 Qld Laing Harrow 2003 ACT Margo Koskelainen OAM 2003 Vic Alan McAuliffe 2003 SA Jenny Holliday 2001 Vic Joyce Lester 2001 Qld Audrey McLaughlin AM 1999 Qld Rosemary Adey OAM 1997 SA Janine (Jan) Allsopp 1993 Vic Vivienne Triplett* 1993 Vic Sybill Turner 1993 NSW Rhonda Boyd 1991 Vic Christine Roughley 1991 NSW Margaret Swann 1989 Vic Myrtle Edwards* 1987 Vic Merle Short* 1987 Vic Marjorie (Midge) Nelson BEM 1981 Vic Esther Deason* MBE 1981 Vic *denotes deceased

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 88 Member States

Member States

Softball ACT t: 02 6278 3000 f: 02 6278 3111 e: [email protected] w: www.act.softball.org.au

Softball NSW t: 02 9677 4000 f: 02 9677 4040 e: [email protected] w: www.softball.net.au

Softball NT t: 08 8927 3333 f: 08 8927 9999 e: [email protected] w: www.nt.softball.org.au

Softball Qld t: 07 3391 2447 f: 07 3391 4734 e: [email protected] w: www.qld.softball.org.au

Softball SA t: 08 8353 6766 f: 08 8353 2480 e: [email protected] w: www.sa.softball.org.au

Softball Tasmania t: 03 6249 3589 f: 03 6249 3589 e: [email protected] w: www.tas.softball.org.au

Softball Victoria t: 03 415 1745 f: 03 8678 3018 e: [email protected] w: www.victoria.softball.org.au

Softball WA t: 08 9349 9911 f: 08 9345 3553 e: [email protected] w: www.wa.softball.org.au

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 89 Partners and Sponsors

Partners and sponsors

Principal Partner

High Performance Partner Indigenous Softball Program Partner

Apparel Sponsor Official Equipment Supplier

Sponsors

Ebadges Marketworthy Sport Business Partners

Fielder’s Choice National Aboriginal Sporting Theme Park Chance Academy

McKenna Hampton Softball Excellence Valiant Press

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 90

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 91 Glossary

Glossary

AASC Active After school Communities

AIS Australian Institute of Sport

ASC Australian Sports Commission

BNOL Blues News Online

CALD Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

CRM Client Relationship Management

DTE Daily Training Environment

ISF International Softball Federation

ISP Indigenous Softball Program

NEDP National Elite Development Program

NCAS National Coaching Accreditation Scheme

NOAS National Officiating Accreditation Scheme

NSC National Scoring Committee

NUC National Umpiring Committee

NUP National Umpiring Program

SCCP Softball Community Coaching Program

TCS Tournament Chief Statistician

TCU Tournament Umpire in Chief

UIC Umpire in Chief

SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 92