Author: LineDrive

I write a weekly look into the lives and characters of Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club. Baseball in North East Victoria Australia does not have a very big media presence and this is hoped that people will read about us and come own and have a look at the great game. I also just like to write and hopefully those who read it do like what I am writing about.

Line Drive presents The Voodoo Diaries November 11th 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to the final edition of The Voodoo Diaries 2024, from the Pan Pacific Games on the Gold Coast.It has been another epic chapter of Voodoo Masters Baseball both on and off the diamond. Line Drive has been ever present and is feeling pretty gassed right about now. This a long edition as it covers the past three to four days of games, not to mention what makes the diaries worth reading! So get comfy and grab a coffee or water or whatever you need to re-hydrate after a large 10 days!

Thursday game vs Surfers Bluewave

On Thursday Voodoo were playing Team Surfers Bluewave after drawing with them on Monday. After a little distraction on who were the home side, it was Voodoo’s turn to lead it off. Tom Simmons duly obliged by getting on base. A quick double play was then turned by Surfers Bluewave to quickly put 2 outs on the board. Patient batting by Jay Ziersch and the rest of the middle order helped build a lead. Jude Power was backed by the Voodoo field, by shutting the Bluewave hitters down. A couple of big hits to Power and Owen Godenzi saw them trade second base tacking on another run. Bluewave worked their way back into the game but old rubber arm Nathan Pool was then deployed to once more, keep the hard hitting Bluewave subdued. To make things interesting, Voodoo had a quick 1,2,3 batting inning and gave Bluewave the right of reply. A couple of hits here and there gave hope for another comeback. But, basic baseball was the order of the day with Damon Barker taking the last out at centre field for the Voodoo to win 6 to 4. Voodoo now are in the final against the Chugganaughts on Saturday.

Friday vs Chugganaughts

On Friday, and in extremely sultry conditions, Voodoo played the Chugganaughts in their final preliminary round game.To be fair, both sides were more interested in getting the game done and dusted as quickly as possible. So much so that the Chugganaughts retired 10 Voodoo hitters on end. Pitcher Davis Long remarked at one stage “I may as well just stay out there.”

Chugganaughts got an early lead, and after a bit more of last night had come out of the pores of the Voodoo boys, they woke up and got the lead. Chugganaughts fought back and tied the game much to their own bewilderment. Both teams were happy to call it square and be ready for the Gold medal game Saturday.

Saturday Gold medal match Voodoo vs Chugganaughts

As mentioned earlier Voodoo and Chugganaughts played off in the final of the 35 plus division of the Pan Pacs. Luke Hornstra got the start and after a little bit of bad Voodoo, the Chugganaughts put three out of the yard. To be fair each home run got longer. That was enough for Hornstra. He had to be substituted due to a severe case of whiplash. It was then tasked to Tom Simmons to quell their power hitters, however the boys from Adelaide just kept chugging. Voodoo got a couple of runs back, but it looks like someone drank Jobu’s rum as nothing seemed to go Voodoos way. A late home run to Ben Laux, but it was too little, too late. There were a few in the crowd who said the same thing. Chugganaughts far too good winning 11 to 3. A game played with great spirit by both sides and it was great to share a soda water with them after the game. Nice work Chugganaughts. A huge thank you to the Surfers Paradise Baseball club for again providing top class facilities, from diamonds to food and beverage options. It was a massive effort.

Now the recaps are complete, what have those Voodoo boys and girls been up to?

Scott puts himself in

Masters tournaments are long and arduous affairs. As the week moves through, players are become pretty banged up with the grind of one, and sometimes two games a day. Not to mention the extracurricular excursions out and around the Gold Coast.

It was time for Cam “The Soak” Scott, to help out those weary bodies. After a shaky start and a little bit of nervous energy left near the diamond, Scott returned with his first game since May. A few stretches here and there at first base, and it just felt like old times for Cam. No hits for Cam but he was very happy to have helped out the Voodoo cause.

To the point

Owen “O” Godenzi, dreamt up a little bit of a friendly competition. Each player picked a Voodoo hitters name out of a hat and would win a prize for the amount of hits, runs and strikeouts etc. O thought he would give an update after Thursday’s game. However, it was like the first 18 rounds of the Brownlow medal. Long and tedious. So much so, that the dream catcher award was pushed right back. After a good 15 minutes of very confused dribble, O finished. Top three only next time, O. Like any event only the top three matter. Line Drive doesn’t even know who is leading…..

Word of the week

The week away with Voodoo can be described with one word. Relentless. This can have many different connotations. Relentless can be applied to the verbal barrage that Tom Simmons gave Luke Hornstra after the final. Relentless was the laughter at each other’s expense. Relentless was the pursuit of a great breakfast place. When you ask a Voodoo about the Pan Pac games the answer will be ‘Relentless’

Davo knows his tunes

Davis ‘Juke Box’ Long has a lot of music rattling around inside his head. Line Drive does not think there was one song which came on the boom box, at each and every game that Davo did not know. This also extended to the evenings at the convention centre where each time you looked over at him he was looking at you mouthing each song word for word. Another skillful Voodoo player both on and off the diamond.

How tall are you?

Michelle Pratt, scorer extraordinaire, thought on Thursday night that she would get closer to the front at the Killer Queen tribute night.  However the tall timber of the Voodoo muscled in to obscure the view. Owen Godenzi helped Michelle out by picking her up to improve the view.

Check your accounts

After a good meal and a bit of banter Thursday night, it came to the part of the evening where it was time to settle the bill. A pretty easy, standard thing we have all done. However, Dennis “Denuto” Smith, couldn’t quite figure it out.

John Kus and Cam Scott were just finishing their drink before leaving, and upon checking the bill after a wonderful meal at the Loose Moose, they discovered Dennis may have had a few difficulties fixing up his part of the bill. Plenty of swiping but no transaction Dennis!! IT issues that were in the end sorted and paid. Dennis soon disappeared after that!

Early games

This time around, the Voodoo have been very fortunate to have drawn afternoon games. However, the sting in the tail was Friday morning. Rob “Butts” Seymour, who has been doing double duty with The Bravehearts, warned that it is hotter and very still in the morning, out at the grounds. The Voodoo did not take Butts sage advice and were whacked with the sauna no one asked to have. Wayne “Beato” Beaton, was looking quite frazzled after those oppressive conditions.

Yep Butts you were right, again!

Voodoo is a family

This has been the second time Line Drive has been asked to diarise the Voodoo. Like any operation, there are many moving parts. From our wonderful scorers Michelle and Rosie who have both been on the book, and the iPad using game changer. It does not go unseen by Line Drive.

Another individual who has one of the more demanding roles that is umpiring, is Law and Order’s own, Greg Howard. From plating two games in a day, to listening to players whine, Greg just tells it as it is. Some rules are there to protect runners, from bonehead plays. A big thankyou to you all, who just make the week work so much better.

From Line Drive

It has again humbled me this week with the kind words and praise for doing what I really like doing.Even old team mates are surprised to learn who Line Drive is (see Cav, there’s the mention), trying to give you all an insight into each of the wonderful individuals and moments, that make up Voodoo. Line Drive has enjoyed the week immensely. I was having a glass of red last night, and as said previously, Voodoo is a big family who get to come together every two years, eat, drink, laugh, play a sport we all love and enjoy one another’s company.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to come away again, chronicle the people and hopefully give life to each and every wonderful person who make up the Voodoo family. It may not be as fancy as a pod cast or as immediate as a tik tok, and, generally it is always over 200 words long. Given the chance of an audio book or podcast, Josh Graham still is my choice to voice it.

To all you baseball folk out there, thank you for taking the time to read the musings of a slack swinging left handed hitter who generally talks rubbish, loves high sock Sunday, and is happy to sit in the back ground, bringing your tales to life.

Line Drive will return in 2025, where there may be some ‘Cod Tales’ and of course, ‘Rounding Third’ for Wangaratta.

Voodoo Pan Pacific Games 2024

Umpire- Greg Howard

Scorers- Rosie Ziersch and Michelle Pratt

Captain- Grumpy Bradley Pratt

Lead Booker Merchandiser- Davis Long

Coach- John Kus

Game Changer Coordinator- Owen Godenzi

Players-

Nathan Pool

Rob Seymour

Brendan Simmons

Tom Simmons

Luke Hornstra

Dennis Smith

Wayne Beaton

Josh Graham

Jude Power

Ben Laux

Jay Ziersch

Damon Barker

Cam Scott

And me, Line Drive. If you know, you know.

Time for Line Drive to get some rest. It has been my great pleasure writing these all week.In the words of Shoresy, “We go till we can’t go no more”

Go Voodoo.

Voodoo 2024

Line Drive presents The Voodoo Diaries November 7th 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello, and welcome again from the Gold Coast. The masters baseball is well underway. We have reached the halfway point of the tournament and The Voodoo are just ticking away at it. Each member of the Voodoo are playing their part. Here is a recap of what has been happening over the past few days at the Pan Pacific Games.

Voodoo draw.

Voodoo had one game Monday afternoon. A stellar performance by Nathan “Joe Cocker” Pool on the hill kept the Surfers Bluewave hitters off balance and guessing with each plate appearance. Voodoo backed Pool on the mound with disciplined at bats and excellent hitting, but you cannot keep a hard hitting side down, the Bluewave rallied with the final score being a 7 all draw.

However if you were one of the 15 people watching on game changer, Kelsey “Dropsy” Burder gave the opposition one more run. That was incorrect. Seven all.

A big thanks to Dropsy for scoring the game for all our Voodoo people.

Voodoo vs Wolfpack

Brendan Simmons was on the hill for the Wednesday game against Wolfpack. Wolfpack got on the board early. Davis Long got things rolling for Voodoo in the second innings, scoring one run.  Simmons went to work and the bottom of the order lead by Dennis Smith and Josh Graham gave Voodoo some momentum levelling the score at 3 all.

Wayne Beaton was sparkling at second base winding back the clock to help Simmons out. Jude Power lived up to his last name driving one out over right centre scoring Jay Ziersch as well. John Kus was brought on to pitch. Wolfpack were able to drag a run back but Kus shut them down. Ziersch and Power swapped with his second home run of the game. Time was called with Voodoo winning 8 to 4.

Voodoo vs Laser Sharks

It was left hander Tom Simmons turn on the mound for the second game of Wednesday afternoon. This time Voodoo were playing Laser Sharks. As is the norm over the week so far, Voodoo were slow to start with Laser Sharks getting an early run. However this then rectified with Voodoo getting four of their own. Simmons was now in total control on the mound finishing up only throwing 54 pitches through four innings of work. Led by Rob “Butts” Seymour with three hits and Dennis Smith with two more, Voodoo kept the good mojo going, running out winners 13 to 1.

Dreams can come true

The Dream catcher has been passed from Brendan “Boo” Simmons to Rob “Butts” Seymour and Buttsy’s luck has certainly changed. Now it has been passed on to Luke Hornstra. The reason is a simple one. The Duke needs a bit of good Voodoo to come his way. Line Drive believes it will.

Handshakes can be a hazard

It has been great having our Voodoo supporters for the first part of the games. This year Voodoo Wangaratta have been ever present at the first couple of games, being a loud and proud member of the collective. However greetings and handshakes are a hazard. Beato and Julian “Keno” Frasca found this out Sunday at the Pavilion.

All innocent enough but unfortunately a large glass of “soda water” was in the way. All over Dropsy Burder’s phone. No damage was done, just the bruised pride of a couple of individuals.

A 200 word limit

Many have said to Line Drive over the years, that maybe just maybe, it’s a bit long to read. Line Drive likes to look at it in a different way. However with our shortened attention spans over the past ten years and possibility of older age, they could be willing to diversify. Maybe Line Drive should get a person to voice these notes, turning them into an audio book? How about AI? Not authentic enough. One Voodoo person would be perfect for the task.  If there was someone to voice this little rambling, Josh Graham would probably have the voice you wish to listen to. A couple of warmups and just read it how it is Josh. It is more than a page long, so maybe break it up into installments to be released daily? Thoughts?

I am Voodoo wins the last Pool the prodigal son

The Voodoo put their best foot forward, put on the pants and closed toed shoes (and moon-boot) to head to the Gold Coast races on Cup Day. The food and service was first class, with many of the Voodoo faithful having a crack at the punt.

It was a tough afternoon across many a racetrack, however one horse caught everyone’s eye. Gold Coast, race 6, “ I am Voodoo”.

If there was ever an omen bet then here it was in front of us. John “The Watcher” Kus was very bullish on it and so many others were too. In the dying light of the get out stakes, I am Voodoo jumped well, settling towards the front before getting gritty in the last furlong and holding off all challenges. This galvanised the Voodoo punters and the hat loving one Nathan “Joe Cocker” Pool, jagged a $12 winner in the get out stakes at Randwick. Good job Joe Cocker. Always great to have a sheep dog to get the flock back home too.

Hey do you play basketball?

On the way out of the village on Wednesday night, Buttsy was just meandering out with both Cam “The Soak” Scott and Damon “Barks” Barker, when a rather tall individual was walking by. Butts asked the obvious question. The reply was yes. Innocent enough. Barks then told Butts who that was.  Chris Anstey. Former NBA, NBL and Australian player. “Sorry Chris” was Butts reply. “All good” said Chris. Classic.

Now for Voodoo shorts

Sunglasses anyone? Please don’t stand on them. Or do!

Big thank you to Wayne “Beato” Beaton and 2IC Dennis “Denuto” Smith for Wednesday’s Mexican feed. Much appreciated by all.

Big shout out to those watching along on game changer. We see you.

Do we need pockets for these shorts Davo? New merchandise opportunity. Bum bag.

Thursday Voodoo play Surfers Bluewave at 1pm local time.

Friday Voodoo have Chugganaughts early at 8:30am local time.

A big thank you to my editor who is the true brains of this operation. it is greatly appreciated. Have a good day and please don’t ask me to clarify anything. Line Drive cannot remember!

Go Voodoo

Line Drive presents The Voodoo Diaries November 3 2024

Posted on by LineDrive


Hello from the Gold Coast. Line Drive is here with the Voodoo Masters once more, bringing you an insight into the people and the characters that are part of Voodoo Masters 2024.

Saturdays game has been played and won. There was plenty of nervous energy in the Voodoo squad as there always is in the first game of a tournament. Voodoo’s opposition came out and hit the ball hard. After a bit of a nervous start, Voodoo warmed to the task. Led by a Ben Laux double, this sparked the Voodoo to life and got them off and running. It was a grind after a morning meeting with so much more merchandise and competitions to remember, each at bat Voodoo hitter remembered what to do and got to work. Great team hitting by rookies Jay “Ray Ray” Ziersch, and Wayne, “Beato” Beaton, solidified the Voodoo, breaking the game open with Voodoo running out 10-6 victors.
Sunday sees the Voodoo having the day off, and they’ll return to the diamond on Monday for a game against Surfers Paradise.
Now the formalities are out of the way. Let’s get to what the Voodoo Diaries is all about and what  the people who make up Voodoo have been up to?

Welcome to Voodoo Masters 2024
The Pan Pacific Games has only just begun for the characters of the Voodoo, but many have already made their presence felt. No more so than Rookie Tom “Energiser” Simmons.
The rookie Simmons has been one very excitable fellow for the past few days leading up to the games. Many of the Voodoo faithful got the full treatment of Cyclone Tom on Thursday night. However, during game time, the energiser was able to repay the faith in spades. Simmons was tasked with the job of playing right field. Many a North East player could not think of a time when Simmons has played so far from the infield, if at all. However, the joy of youth for a 35 plus masters side, Simmons stepped up to the challenge by being flawless in windy conditions. At the plate, he managed to get hit twice. He did remark to the first base coach, “Did not get hit once all season in 2024” Welcome to Voodoo #43!

Butts arrives.
Ben Laux is relieved. After at least six mentions after Saturdays game, Rob “Butts” Seymour has arrived.
The last playing member has touched down on the Gold Coast. The man we all love, “Butts”  has had an eventful day. He is here, but his gear has not. It is”somewhere” between the Gold Coast and Sydney. However, Buttsy just rolls with the punches and will be ready to go for Bravehearts on Sunday. From the rest of Voodoo, we’ll be watching on from afar.

Catch the dream Boo
The first person award with the dream catcher for Voodoo 2024 was Brendan “Boo” Simmons. After a tough first up game, Cam “The Soak” Scott thought it was a very even performance and would be tough on anyone to get the dreamcatcher. However, after consultation with Bradley, “Groundspreson Willy” Pratt, there was a clear winner in Boo Simmons. His mind is as sharp as a tack, and the reason was simple. Boo made an error his first play of masters 2022 and then repeated it in 2024. Catch that dream Boo.

The Watcher
Every side needs a person to do the hard yards. Every side needs a person to watch over the players. Voodoo is no different. We have John, “The Watcher,” Kus.
The Watcher sees all from afar. Like a good shepherd, he knows his flock. Even when the watcher is not in attendance, Kus knows. Now, many would say this is creepy, but if you have to deal with middle-aged aged baseba, lers then you need a Watcher. Kus portrays the role perfectly.

Voodoo doctors
One thing is, for sure, the ability of Voodoo members to diagnose medical and social conditions that many of the general public may have never heard of.
Davis Long legs don’t seem to stop moving, so the Voodoo doctors declared ‘restless leg syndrome.’
Nathan “Joe Cocker” Pool has been diagnosed with hat fishing. Hat fishing is a condition where a middle aged men always wears a hat or cap. After looking down from above, or ‘where love lifts us up where we belong’,  as Joe Cocker crooned.
You can leave your hat on.

DJ Denouto
Every member has a role to play in the Voodoo machine. From Cam “The Soak” Scott making sure Jude Power is organised and on time, to Wayne “Beato” Beaton having the to Dennis “DJ Denouto” Smith spinning the decks in the dugout. No dodgy legal advice from Denouto, just great vibes and songs that you all know and love. Look for the DJ playing all the hits this week at Surfers Paradise Baseball Club Voodoo bench.

Now for baseball stuff
The Voodoo are enjoying the Sunday with a day off before getting back into it Monday. Line Drive will keep you all updated as the week progresses. More stories to follow. Hope you enjoyed the read with Line Drives’ mistakes and all.

Go Voodoo.



Luke Hornstra just deals in strikes.

Line Drive presents The Voodoo Diaries preview 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to the 2024 Voodoo Diaries. The insight into the characters of Voodoo that no one asked for. Line Drive has been tasked once again to accompany and document the 2024 Pan Pacific Games. In their first tournament as a collective in 2022, team Voodoo finished a gallant runner up in the 35 plus division, pushing a Surfers Paradise outfit to the last out. They all had so much fun, they thought, why not! Let’s have another crack at that. This time Voodoo are looking to have a great time and  possibly go one better.  Line Drive will have his pen and notepad poised to document the week and maybe, just maybe, give you some insight into how an old baseballer goes about their week at a big tournament.

Who’s got the kit. Who’s got the gear?

A flurry of activity over recent days with the realisation that Voodoo head away in just under a weeks’ time. Many have been asking who has what equipment, what do we need? And who actually has the baseball talent to play in the outfield? The majority of the Voodoo credit  have put their hand up to platoon in the outfield. One in particular who is super keen to play outfield all week is Porepunkah superstar Damon Barker. He has boldly declared “start me in centre field each and every game. I have full faith in our starting pitchers that I will not have to do much” Line Drive has over many years seen Barkers prowess in the outfield and if anyone can do this we know the Panther man can!

Butts: The Game is back.

After a stellar season in the North Eastern Baseball Association, Rob “Butts” Seymour is ready and raring to go for the 2024 Pan Pacific masters Games. The personable Butts is ready and chomping at the bit to play.  To Butts’s credit he is fighting fit and ready to dominate at the games especially wanting to show Ben Laux he is still the one to beat. So much so that he has put his hand up to do double time at the games. Butts is also a Brave-heart. One thing is for sure, he will have to be clean with his hands in the field. Word is the Brave-hearts play in kilts. One hopes the bounce is kind and no short hops allowed. What all you long time readers will know about Butts is that he will play flat out every game.

Put the practice in. Get the rewards

Over the past weekend the north east portion of the Voodoo group decided to get together up in the beautiful surroundings of Porepunkah. The idea was simple have a hit in the cage to get ready for masters followed by a bite to eat. It is great to hear that the swings were pure and the stories told afterwards were tall. Word is both Brendan and Tom Simmons were crushing the ball in the cage. No wonder when you look at them. Both have been hitting the protein shakes and the gym hard. The results are there to be seen. The Simmons are ready to have a big week.  For all the rest of you out there. Make sure you prepare properly, get your swings in, never skip leg day and always, always have your quota. Isn’t that right Nathan “Fomo” Pool?

Tuesday Melbourne Cup day.

Pack the chinos the loafers and a touch of white, as Voodoo head to the Gold Coast Turf Club on the first Tuesday in November. Man of the people, Owen “The big Table” Godenzi has embraced the idea of a touch of white. So much so he could be mistaken for member of a 90’s band. Just add the blonde tips to finish off the look O.  He would “want it that way”.

Davo with the goods again.

Davis Long is an individual of many talents. From one of the driving forces behind Voodoo Masters, to an integral cog in many a clubs baseball machine. His eye for detail with the Voodoo kit is second to none. Davo makes team Voodoo look the sharpest on and off the diamond. Look out this year for new Voodoo shirts, caps and shorts. Why wear anything else on the Gold Coast? Line Drive knows that those Ranger tailgaters would definitely represent in the merchandise too.

Graham dominates final

It has been many a year where both the Traralgon Red Sox and Wangaratta Rangers get to celebrate a premiership year together. (This writer makes no apologies with that sentence!) Season 2024 saw the planets align and made it happen. It was great to hear that Josh “Yoshi” Graham wound back the clock and dominated the Latrobe Valley Association Grand Final. My spies tell me Graham put on a clinic of hitting prowess, driving in runs right left and centre. Graham, as ever, self depreciating manner says he “got lucky”. But you all know the man with the beard this is so much further from the truth. Look for Yoshi to bring his big bat to the week on the Gold Coast.

Ranger crew on the Coast

Line Drive would like to ask this question? Do any other Masters team have a loyal following like the Voodoo? Like do you have groupies outside your own relations? Well guess what, Voodoo have groupies! Or as they like to say, “Tailgaters.”  Brad “Undies” Murdoch is just having an excellent tune up before hand with a quick overseas jaunt while Kelsey “Dropsy” Burder will just be doing Dropsy things. Come along get involved and be part of the Voodoo action on the Gold Coast ladies and gents.

Now for the Voodoo stuff

Line Drive will be looking to keep you the reader updated on the going on with all the characters which make up Voodoo. Look for a bit of a wrap up over a couple of days. The usual high editorial standards may not be adhered to. If you know you know!

Hope you all have a great week. Stay hydrated and off the hard rated! We get better with age!

Go Voodoo.

Rounding Third by Line Drive August 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of Rounding Third. It has been a little while since Line Drive has run his eye over the goings on in the North Eastern Baseball Association.

However over the past weekend, he was able to ride on out to the Ranger dome and catch up with some new, and many old faces who have been on the end of a bit of light hearted banter over the years in this little bit of writing.

This year the social media game has certainly gone up a notch which has been sensational for the clubs exposure. It’s been looking pretty schmick.

A big shout out goes to Rangers Grey who have been just out of luck most of this season. However they gritted their teeth yesterday and finished off the season with a walk off win over Bears Gold in A grade. It was fitting that Rob, “Butts” Seymour was the winning run across the plate. Great work ladies and gents.

A Grade grey season finished on a winning note. What is Kelsey looking at?

Next week sees the start of finals with the Rangers being represented across numerous grades. It is Grand Final weekend for the juniors too. The under 15’s will be playing Wodonga in the Grand final. Games to be played out at Targoora Park in Wangaratta. A BIG Sunday coming up this Father’s Day.

Line Drive will leave all other correspondence to the wonderful IT gurus we have at Wangaratta and the North Eastern Baseball Association. He is returning to his traditional values, with a bit of sass and some tongue in cheek observations of the varying individuals who play in the Orange,  Black (and Grey) of the Wangaratta Rangers. 

Now with all of that out of the way, what has been going on?

Soaks rambling dribble returns

Not much has been seen of Line Drive’s good friend Cam “The Soak” Scott over the 2024 season. Many have reported the diamonds have been much quieter, and let’s be honest, much more refined. On Sunday just gone, The Soak rode in to Ranger land to support his brothers and sisters of the Rangers with what many of you may know as his own unique approach to ‘talking it up’  Ably assisted by some current Rangers, Jason “Sunscreen” Jonker and past Ranger,

Scott “#Jenkoselbow” Jenkins, The Soak decided to run his mouth at Rangers B Grade vs Wodonga Warriors B Grade. First target. B grade “Skipper” Mick Wyatt, who had decided to take his turn on the pitchers rubber.

The Soak was in one of his upbeat weird kind of moods and he was choosing chaos.

“I’ve ridden down here just to watch you pitch number 11” Wyatt the chose to spike the next pitch into the dirt, and his next remark was “Shut up Cam!” When asked later about his grumpy outburst, Mick clarified that he was attempting not to laugh at what had been said.

With that in mind, many others in the B Grade dugout got a little bit of the bizarre inner workings of The Soaks mind too.

Another target was Paul, “6 dots” Maiden. Cam thought that one was pretty clever, however a little too clever for young Mikayla, “I find Line Drive boring” Jonker, where both Jenko and Cam had to explain the reference. Once explained, Mikayla doubled down on her dislike for cricket. Sadly still, the reference was lost. Sometimes, the banter is a little too refined and obscure and that is the way Cam likes it.

Peruzzo and his new veneers.

In between explaining obscure references to younger members of the side, The Soak turned his attention to Steve, “Fernando” Peruzzo and his nice looking veneers. It has been a while since Fernando has had a full smile, but they were certainly on show On Sunday. Cam asked Dan Wells if he should mention Fernando’s great, new looking chompers, and Dan was all in for it.

When mentioned, all Fernando did was well….smile.

Murdoch’s Moustache masterclass

Brad, “Undies” Murdoc, has been many things to many people over the years at Wangaratta. A great club person, knock around bloke, a great dancer to the odd midnight oil song, but one thing that is underestimated is the majestic nature of his upper lip. The Rangers do have a few great beards, but only one true superstar moustache. Undies owns that. The man of great beard, Scott Jenkins, did a little bit of commentary on the true style of Murdoch’s mo.

“Best tache in the Association” Jenko said…..It’s hard to argue with that commentary Jenko.

 It was also noted that Matt, “The Colonel” Sanders top lip is also looking nice and full of hair follicles too. Maybe Murdoch’s mo mantel is under threat in B grade? Watch this space for updates.

Dropsy’s new trick

It was duly noticed on the weekend, during the Rangers Grey vs Bears Gold game on diamond 1 that Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burder has a new trick. Early on in the game, Burder surprised those watching by throwing his catchers helmet at the batter. Kyle Gilmore was even impressed as this was a new skill Burder has built into his repertoire this season. Dropsy no more? Never.

Always be Dropsy!

Mei see you around!

Mei Sato has really enjoyed her return to the diamond in season 2024. She is at every training and always looking for ways to improve. Mei had become ever reliable for the Wangaratta Grey in season 2024. Mei has filled a variety of positions over the season and under the watchful eye of Tesuya “Tets” Kamiyama, the improvement has been excellent. Mei was quoted as hoping the season was continuing. It’s always great to have positive up beat individuals like Mei involved at the club.

KK. The new queen of all things Rangers

Once just the domain of Line Drive, this year has seen many others take on small roles and responsibilities around getting information into the public domain. From creating many of the week to week posts on Instagram and Facebook, Mikayla “KK” Pool has turned her hand to the podcast world as guest host. From all reports, this has been well received as KK has basically threatened the playing group into listening to it. The players have responded by always having a a listen and giving it a like. If you would too would like to have a listen at what KK is producing, head over to the Wangaratta rangers Facebook page or look for it on Spotify or whatever podcast app you use.

What’s my name again?

It has come to Line Drive’s attention that a couple of the Godenzi’s like to mix names up.

Tanner Godenzi has a habit of calling Cam Scott Mick Wyatt, and Owen made a habit of calling Oscar Maiden “Issac”. It’s alright, Cam also gets Campbell a lot too. Coincidence?

Presentation time.

Line Drive may have had a little bit of a quieter year, but the club certainly has not. Games at Targoora park each week, to junior representative carnivals to social nights. The Rangers have certainly had a full plate in season 2024. Silver circle once again was a great night along with Junior Rangers movie night and now the upcoming presentation evening.

Leader of many, Owen “O” Godenzi was having a conversation with the young travellers from Melbourne and comparing presentation nights with their respective clubs. It was mentioned that this could be the biggest yet. Friday the 13th of September Wangaratta Turf Club is the venue. Food and entertainment is on the cards. Maybe a birthday song for the president too. Make sure you get your tickets. It is sure the be a great night.

Happy trails Ryan Kenny

Safe travels back home to treasurer Ryan, “Mr Canada” Kenny who has headed back to the northern hemisphere and home to Canada. Kenny managed a farewell appearance at a Rangers function over the Kings birthday weekend in June before relocating. True to form Kenny put in a big effort. Last to bed and was the first to rise from his swag. Rumour has it he was pretty happy the Rangers don’t have too many functions as they just always seem to be epic. That’s the Ranger way. Hope you have a read of this Ryan. You will be missed.

Anyone seen Old School?

Shaun “Old School” O’Neil got a little bit jumpy seeing Line Drive on Sunday. He was that jumpy that he decided to be named on the bench. “You can’t put me in there for anything this week!” However, true to Line Drive form, a special mention to Old School. Keep being you Old School.

Now onto the club stuff

Finals this weekend Sunday at Targoora Park. Murdoch road Wangaratta

Check out K.K’s podcast on Spotify. “you better” not my words, they are KK’s!

Training Wednesday from 6pm for Seniors

Presentation Night, Friday 13th of September at Wangaratta Turf Club. Tickets are available through the Rangers Facebook page.

C grade Rangers play Wodonga.

B grade  Rangers play Wodonga.

A grade Rangers Black play Bears Gold

That’s enough from me. Yes it is the old school way of doing things, but sometimes just writing it is a little bit easier and therapeutic for this scribe. Line Drive will be back again in the near future. Good luck to all this coming weekend for their finals no matter where you are reading from.

Have a great Fathers day out there. Miss you Dad.

Till then thanks for reading and….. just thought I would add another photo of Rangers Grey. Thanks to Mei Sato!

Some are the consummate professional for photos aren’t they!.

Go Rangers.

Line Drive presents Cods Capers 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

Line Drive presents Cods Capers 2024

Hello and welcome to a special edition of Cods Masters baseball from the sunny city of Ballarat.
After a subdued Thursday night, 10.5 Cods players took to the field in lovely conditions.
In game, one Brendon French got the job done on the hill against Titans, while in game 2, it was Damon Barkers turn to get the win against our great friends Tassie. Saturday’s team manager Kelsey “Dropsey” Burder will have some difficult decisions to make in the line-up for the midday matinee game. One thing for sure is that Dropsey will not concern himself with minor details. Just the person for the job. Now onto some other stories.

The Moustached one been busy.
It has been a year of change at Cods Masters. After being asked to score and kindly declining, Brad “Undies” Murdoch has taken on the role of Master Of Fines. Undies took to the role like a duck to water, not missing a beat. But one must say, Dropsey Burder was the main focus for a couple of his pages of misdemeanours. A few Cods managed to escape scott free.
Lets hope this is addressed on Saturday and Sunday.

Where is Griff?
Daniel Griffin has made it to Ballarat. However, Thursday night, you would think the enigma was never there! This was noticed by most and now Griff is making up for lost time. Where were you Griff?

Gilly loves a kebab
Culinary master Kyle Gilmore has finally met his match. It was overheard that Gilly has had his best chicken kebab in many moons. Kebab ninja Rob, “Butts” Seymour had a seagull go at Gilly’s kebab. It got the seagull tick of approval. His order? Chicken, garlic sauce, jalepenos and cheese. Gilly rates it, and Line Drive rates Gilly’s food choices.

Butts forgets the Soak.
Self proclaimed number one scorer in the game, Rob Seymour made a little error in the line up today. Buttsy was moving around the Cods letting know where they are all playing. With his usual aplom, Butts went through the group letting them know where they are playing. However, when he came to tell Cam “The Soak” Scott his position, he paused. Butts had forgotten to put Soak in the line-up! A hasty changed was made. Soak to play 3rd base!

The new Pikachu

There are a couple of changes for the Cods going forward this weekend. The Soak and Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo are subbed out and two are subbed in. One is very very excited. Rookie Tom “Bobblehead” Simmons is super excited to be part of the Cod collective. Young Tom, bless his cotton socks is going to be schooled in the ways of the Cod. One thing for sure his head won’t stop wobbling.

Now onto other Cod Stuff
Griff is here
Undies will do fines remotely on Saturday
Kelsey sorting a good team out
Tetsu never gets an error
Barker gets the win
Dropsy…..enough said.

Thats it like and share.

Till next time

Go Cods

Rounding Third By Line Drive April 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello there! Yes I’m back! The baseball tales from the North East of Victoria no one asked for, but you are aways here to read! It has been a while since the musings of Line Drive has been put down on paper. It was time to step away from the deck of the local cricket club and its unique blend of characters, and return to safe territory. It is time to place the spotlight back on the eclectic individuals who all come together to play under one banner. One club. The Wangaratta Rangers. It has been a great off season for many, so let’s get you up to speed with the goings on around Wangaratta and beyond.

Azza ties the knot

A massive congratulations goes out to Aaron “Azza” Parker who got married in the past couple of weeks to the lovely Kate. From all of us at the Rangers, we wish you a lifetime of happiness! Love your work #5!

Cods 2024

The start of the new baseball season brings together some of the older heads of the association, who combine their considerable talents into the one entity called The Cods. It has been a very quiet summer for The Cods with many being rather busy with other commitments. However, The Cods have been able to put a side together again this year, so they can see how good they ‘used to be,’ in the Victorian Masters Baseball championships, being held in Ballarat from the 5th to the 7th of April. Big Cod Nathan “FOMO” Pool has once again done the heavy lifting getting a place to rest some weary cod heads organised. There are a few new Codlings attending this year with some particular Rangers FINALLY being the right age now. Look for Daniel “The Griff” Griffin to put in a good display along with long time tailgater Brad “Undies” Murdoch, stepping up to be full Cod players. Not to mention Cod legends Ash Meyers and Damon Barker once again showing off their talents on the diamond in Ballarat. The Pufferfish award to the best Cod for the weekend is wide open, with some unavailabilities limiting the field. Line Drive is back in attendance after travelling the world last time around in 2023. Good luck gentlemen!

Driving the Hume.

It has been a big summer for a few families in the North East. After a very successful winter season in 2023, a clutch of Wangaratta Juniors thought they would play and refine their already considerable skills in different settings. Some headed off for Melbourne while others headed up to Albury to play in the Albury Wodonga Softball Association. Now with training back in full swing, it is definitely noticeable to Line Drive the confidence that this has brought to many of the younger players. This places them and the club in a good position for a great winter season in 2024. It is really pleasing to see this happening and full credit to parents, guardians, coaches, umpires and whoever else assisted in their development as ball players.

Juniors ready to go

Season 2024 is rapidly approaching. It has been a busy month down at “The Ranch”. The juniors are being put through their paces under the guidance of Under 12s coach, Daniel Wells and Under 15s coach, Nathan Pool. The numbers have been impressive in both junior grades coming off the back of a successful month of ‘come and try’ days. The club has decided to enter two Under 12s and two Under 15s teams into the winter comp for 2024. One of the Under 15s will be merged with the Benalla Bandits. If you are still interested come on down on Wednesday from 5pm to have a look and a throw.

New players a plenty

Another season approaches and it was time to find the baseball gear and head to training. The weather has been warm, training in natural light is something of an oddity. However, it has been worth the drive over to Wangaratta to see so many new and returning faces to the Wangaratta Rangers. Many have come off a season of softball over the summer time, while others have just heard about us and thought they would come down for a run around. It has been great. This scribe has a lot of names to learn and remember over the coming weeks of the season. Welcome to all, it’s wonderful to have you be a part of a great club.

Hitting the Gym

Line Drive has heard that a certain Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burder has been hitting the gym in readiness for the upcoming season. This comes as a surprise to many that Kelsey has decided that NOW is the time to hit the weights. Maybe he is getting ready for the dancefloors of Ballarat? However it seems to have come at a cost. Poor Kelsey has been battling a bit of sickness the past couple of weeks. Coincidence? One wonders. Hope you’re feeling better Kelsey.

Trivia time

The Wangaratta Rangers is holding a trivia night on Friday the 19th of April which is to be held at the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Softball club located on Murdoch Road. Tickets can be bought via the Wangaratta Rangers Facebook page by clicking on the link below. It is sure to be a brilliant night for the club, however there will be a couple of noticeable absences with trivia masters, Line Drive and his wife being in Melbourne that night….. This does open up doors for another trivia master to take the helm and be awarded as the coveted champion of Targoora Park!! Congratulations to the ‘Cool Committee’ on arranging a ripper evening. Hannah Clancy and co have been working very hard!

Wangaratta Rangers Trivia April 19th 2024

Din Dins A doo dah

Training dinners will be back in full swing after training the week before the start of the season. This means there will be dinner on Wednesday 17th of April to be prepared by gourmet chef Aaron “Azza” Parker. Azza has kindly volunteered to cook the first week, and each week following will be on a volunteer basis. For those who are reading Rounding Third for the first time, then the deal is simple. Let us know if you are keen in partaking in dinner. And then for $10 you get a great feed and your first drink. A great way to sit down and have a chat after a good run around on the diamond. Line Drive is very appreciative of dinner at the club as much nicer eating at 7:30pm instead of 9pm! Please approach your coach if you would like to volunteer one week and whip up a feast for the masses after training.

Doing the groundwork.

A big shout out goes to the members of the club who have put in the hours over the summer time to continue to upgrade the diamond and surrounds at Targoora park. Just last week the running track from home to first and home to third have been completed. Not to mention a layer of sand that has been spread over the outfield filling in some of the lower spots. The ground is looking in good shape moving forward and that is a testament to many members of the club over the years.

Now onto the club stuff

  • Junior training Wednesday nights from 5pm at Targoora Park Wangaratta. All are welcome!
  • Seniors training this week is brought to you by Rob “Butts” Seymour and Jason “Sunscreen” Jonker. Be out on the field at 6pm ready to go.
  • First dinner will be the 17th of April. Thanks Azza.
  • Registrations are open and ready to go for the upcoming season. Check the Rangers player chat and the website (TBA) to register for the season. It is an easy process and quick too!
  • Trivia night Friday 19th April at the clubrooms- buy your tickets on Rangers Facebook page!
  • Good luck Cods for the weekend.

Anyhow, it is nice to be back, writing and bantering with you about the Rangers. Welcome to new readers and those who just like the musings of a rather average ball player. Much more will follow this upcoming season. So as per usual, spread the word, share and like.

Have a good week and…..

Go Rangers!

Rounding Third By Line Drive July 2023

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to the July edition of Rounding Third. The season has been ticking along albeit in a stop start manner. This is due to weather, many a junior carnival and being the depths of winter in the North East, where many are looking to escape to warmer locations. Despite all of this, there was some baseball played over the weekend in Benalla and Wodonga respectively. Here are the results from Sunday 16th of July.

Under 12’s Rangers 11 lost to Wodonga Warriors 22.

Under 15’s Rangers 12 defeated Wodonga Warriors 6

C Grade Rangers 6 lost to Wodonga Warriors 11

B Grade Rangers Grey 15 defeated Benalla Bandits 8

B Grade Rangers Orange 19 defeated Wodonga Warriors 3

A Grade Rangers 15 defeated Wodonga Warriors 4

A big thank you to the hospitality of both Wodonga and Benalla respectively. Both grounds were in great condition, and from first hand experience, the Wodonga canteen was excellent. A big shout out to those who travelled to watch us play. It is much appreciated by all.

Now what else has been happening? In a word, heaps!

North East juniors represent.

At the beginning of July, the North Eastern Baseball Association headed over to Bendigo to play in the Under 14 Victorian Winter Baseball championships. In this case the North East were able to send not just the one side, but TWO sides to participate over the weekend. In a first for the association, North East were able to send a stand alone girls side to participate in Baseball Victoria’s all girls Winter Invitational. Line Drive must mention that the North East were the ONLY association who were able to put an all girls side together. On the Saturday the girls aged 11 to 17 got to play as North East, where on the Sunday, all the girls were mixed into the other Baseball Victoria Girls sides from throughout Melbourne. From all reports it was a hugely successful weekend with both boys and girls sides, learning a heap and playing very good baseball.

With thanks to Field of View sports photography

Over the past weekend North East headed off to Werribee as it was the under 12’s turn to test themselves against the other associations from around the state. They finished a very creditable 3rd overall in pool two with 2 wins and 3 losses for the tournament.

It has only been a few short years since the association took the plunge and relaunched the junior competition. In such a short span of time, the North East has been able to send a side away for all of the junior carnivals. Putting a girls invitational side together is fantastic for the growth of the game in the North East. One that every club should be certainly proud of. The next challenge for all of us in the baseball community is to continue to grow the game and gain opportunities and exposure for all our talented juniors. Line Drive has been talking this great game up for a long time. Now it’s up to the each one of us, young and old to keep the momentum up and show that we have a presence and a place in the communities of Albury, Benalla, Porepunkah, Wangaratta and Wodonga.

Get well Keith Quinn

a shout out to a great baseball/softball person Keith Quinn who had a bit of bad luck over the under 14 weekend in Bendigo. From all reports Quinny is on the mend. Hope to see you again at the local diamond Quinny.

Tetsu did what?????

Over a long, long period of time, Tetsu Kamiyama has had the reputation of being one if not the best import ever to play in the North Eastern Baseball Association. He has hit many a home run, turned dozens of double plays and thrown countless runners out with those slick soft hands of his. Last weekend in Wodonga Line Drive witnessed something that he has never seen before from the little master. A dropped ball on a tag play to second base. The play was executed to perfection by catcher Aaron Parker and pitcher Nathan Pool, who threw a perfect throw to Tets. All Tets needed to do was catch the ball and tag Jesse Griffiths, who all but given up getting back to second base. However, Tets dropped the ball! Much to the surprise of all on the diamond, both dugouts, spectators, scorers, and even people walking past the ground. Some cars even slowed down to see what the commotion was about. Never mind Tets. It happens to all of us from time to time. Better pay the tin on Wednesday night number 9.

Got the tricks here Tets! Photo courtesy of Lauren Grenfell.

Lucky ticket is a week away

The 2023 Rangers Lucky Ticket draw is on again on Saturday 29th of July. It is the one big function we have each year and it would be great for all to get behind it. From selling some tickets to helping out on the night, every little bit helps. Kelsey “Dropsy” Burder has done a power of work again to get the night up an running, and from those who have been before, it is always a great night. Tickets are $25 and drop the club a message if you are looking for a ticket.

Kelsey OMG!

It is hard enough to hit a moving ball. As mentioned above, it is very hard to catch a moving ball. However Kelsey “Dropsy” Burder has out done himself once again. Dropsy was his usual laconic self behind the plate, even throwing out a runner or two. However he saved his best work for in the batters box. At one point while a pitch was coming towards the plate. Kelsey let out a rather audible OMG! and in the next movement, he proceeded to hit the ball! A very interesting skill to demonstrate there Dropsy. One thing is for sure, you never cease to surprise us all at the Rangers.

Look up! Photo courtesy of Lauren Grenfell

The Soak a threat on the base paths

Well not really. If you have seen how Line Drive’s good mate Cam “The Soak” Scott runs it is no where near lightning pace. However a little useless stat for you people who like all things statistics, it may be the most bases The Soak has swiped in over 15 years! How many you may be wondering? The answer is two. Note this information has no real fact in it. Line Drive just though it would be of some interest to those who have known Cam over the years and knows how he runs! In a word, Poorly.

Sunday dinner at the Town and Country

Don’t forget after the games against Porepunkah on Sunday that the club head to our great sponsor the Old Town and Country Tavern for dinner. From a report which came across Line Drive’s desk over the weekend, the last one was the biggest one for the season. More surprisingly this was after all games were cancelled in Wangaratta due to the state of the grounds! Maybe see you there for dinner on Sunday.

The Club is the sum of its members

Again the weather has played havoc on the fixture, with grounds being waterlogged hampering the ability to get continuity into the season. All clubs throughout the association work very hard behind the scenes week in and week out to get their diamonds prepared and playable. All volunteer time and money from the clubs own pockets. If you have been down to Wangaratta recently, you can see a home run fence, and off diamond pitching area has been completed. Also to mention the undercover area in front of diamond one and the extension of fences on diamonds two and three. The club is only as strong as all of you who give up your time to help out after work on week days and the weekends. Remember when it’s your turn to help out, just get in and get it done. By doing that one little bit makes the club run all the more smoothly.

Late in the day vibes at Wodonga July 16th 2023 Photo Lauren Grenfell

Now onto the club stuff

Rangers welcome Porepunkah Panthers Sunday Targoora Park

Rangers Orange vs Benalla at Benalla.

Lucky Ticket July 29th

After home games dinner at Old Town and Country Tavern.

Training from 6pm Wednesday. Dinner next week brought to you by B grade.

If it reads a little different this week, Line Drive’s proof reader is having a break this week. Please like and share.

Till next time.

Go Rangers

Rounding Third by Line Drive June 2023

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to another monthly installment of Rounding Third. It has been a busy six weeks since the last edition. The weather has turned for the colder and many a player in the North East certainly felt that over the past weekend.

The many characters of Wangaratta ventured up to the picturesque Ovens Valley to a winter time Porepunkah. It was a big day of baseball in very wintry and slippery conditions, but all players who braved the conditions equipped themselves exceptionally well. 

C-grade were thereabouts once again, with a win just around the corner one feels. In B-grade it was an old school day, where it was a real team effort to get the win. A complete masterpiece from the veteran, Jason “Sunscreen” Jonker helped be the anchor for the Orange men.

In A-grade, a stellar outing on the pitching rubber from Aaron Parker, and plenty of hitting especially from a returning Ross Johnson and Brendan “CammaaaaaH” Cameron, saw Rangers grind out a win against the Panthers. 

This week, is a week off with the under 18’s winter championship being held in Wangaratta. Let’s hope the weather improves over the week. What else is news?

Results from Sunday June 19th

Below are the results from all teams Sunday June 19th 2023

Under 12’s

Rangers 18 defeated Porepunkah 17

Under 15’s

Rangers 7 defeated Porepunkah 2

C grade

Porepunkah 10 defeated Rangers 5

B grade

Rangers Orange 20 defeated Porepunkah 3

Rangers Grey Washout

A Grade

Rangers 16 defeated Porepunkah 1

A great week from all at Wangaratta. Special mention goes out to Josh Wells, who is the current owner of the Ranger homerun hat in under 15’s. How about that score in the under 12’s game!? A fantastic result for the youngest Rangers, by all reports they are getting better and better with each passing week. Line Drive ran his eye over the C-grade side, and there is a lot to like! Good to see the veteran, Ian “Dino” Dinsdale still plying his trade at first base too. That elusive first win is just around the corner one feels!

Winter has arrived up the Ovens Valley.

It’s been a while Nambrok.

As mentioned above, Rangers Orange had a solid win over Porepunkah. Excellent hitting from Mick, “the Skipper” Wyatt and a complete game on the hill from Jason, “Sunscreen” Jonker, helped reinvigorate the group and spurred them on to deliver a complete performance.

Special mention goes out to the members of a group once know as “Nambrok….” A name that has not been seen in these writings for some time.  The boys from Nambrok wound back the clock and put in a performance not seen for some time. Highlights included Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burder throwing out a runner, Sam, “Goggles” Grigg getting a very rare hit to the catcher and legging it out to first.

For those who don’t know that would be scored as a hit to 2!  Let’s also not forget Brad, “Undies” Murdoch who played with a clear mind and a clearer stomach. I think that will be left there. Where was it left Undies?

Ross Johnson light it up!!!!

Ross, “Rossco” Johnson was back in Rangers colours for his first game of the year on Sunday. There was plenty of musings about Rossco from Cam, “The Soak” Scott and Shaun, “Old School” O’Neil about his numerous mentions on a baseball podcast. The funny thing was that Rossco had not even heard, nor known there was a podcast. Well there is a reason why the number 18 has been mentioned a lot in the local media. When on, he can really hit a good ball. When reflecting on the book after the game on Sunday, it was noted that he had had 5 hits from 6 at bats. He even managed to hit it into his own ankle as well. Good day on the diamond number 18.

CammaaaaaH

After a slow start t the season, Brendan, “CammaaaaaaH” Cameron is swinging a hot stick as of late. After breakout hitting against Wodonga, single handily getting the Rangers over the line, CammaaaaaaH continued this over the weekend in Porepunkah. Another three hits for Cameron. However, he did have to pay his dues for taking off for 3rd base late in the game. The tin graciously accepts your monetary donation. Stay swinging a hot stick CammaaaaaaaaH.

The upgrades continue at the Ranch

A few more upgrades down at Targoora park over the past month. The issues with the lighting have been fixed, while a new bull pen area has been put into use with lighting and all, giving extra flexibility and opportunities to refine ones skills. A new PA system has also been installed ready to go for lucky ticket evening on July 29th. Speaking of that if you wish to get a ticket, they are only $25. Please see someone from the club and they will be more than happy to sell you one!

North East finish fourth.

Big shout out goes to all the players and families who headed down to Geelong over the Kings Birthday weekend to represent the North Eastern Baseball Association. They boys once again acquitted themselves well over the six game being competitive right until Monday. Line Drive heard the new uniforms looked great too.

The tin is a rattling.

The past weekend in Porepunkah saw another sighting of the fines tin. This time some weight was definitely added to it. From strike outs, to errors, to people not recognising players in their own team, there was a gold coin donation or two going on. The usual suspects paid their dues but Line Drive suspects there are a few out there who are dodging the tin. Now who would that be????

Dinners have returned

A very welcome return this season has been the Wednesday night dinner.  After a bit of a false start last month with a wonderful Lasagna supplied by Lauren”Mrs Soak” Scott, dinners in the past few weeks have returned with a vengeance. Last week was team Orange turn, Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burders chicken and pesto pasta, and this week Tony “Spinner” Smith will represent team Grey. For $10 it’s a great feed with a drink. Most  importantly, a great chance to get together for a chat and a laugh after training.

Clubs are always better when you get involved!

Who is Line Drive

Yes, there was a voice of Line Drive on the latest Rangers podcast, but who is to say that it’s the only person who looks over these notes? Maybe as noted in the Rangers chat, just a mouthpiece and a bit of deepfake technology? Just food for thought. Those in the know, know the real story!

Now to the club stuff

  • Training Wednesday. Juniors 5pm, Seniors ready to roll at 6pm
  • Dinner after training. Spinners specialty this week $10 with a drink from 7:30pm on-wards.
  • Under 18’s winter championships on 24th and 25th of June. If you can spare an hour let the club know to help out.
  • Please make sure you are all paid up on the club fees front.
  • Rangers Lucky ticket on Saturday 29th of July. $25 a ticket. Talk to someone at the club for your lucky ticket.
  • Nothing to do Sunday? The Rangers are heading to the Wangaratta derby on Sunday 25th of June. Magpies vs Rovers. All are welcome to come along and spend the afternoon watching the local footy. Wangaratta showgrounds.
  • Lauren ‘Mrs Soak’ Scott will soon be hitting you all up to buy a ticket and a shirt, in support of Project 365, who are putting on another show at the Wangaratta Rodeo on Saturday November 25th…. potential end of season / pre Xmas gathering? Tickets will be available soon via their Facebook page, ‘Project 365 Wangaratta, U Can Cry’ All in support of positive mental health!

Well that’s it for this edition. Another enjoyable piece of writing. Till next time….

Go Rangers

Rounding Third By Line Drive May 2023

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to another installment of Rounding Third.

Season 2023 is now underway with the first two rounds in the books. All clubs converged on Wangaratta over the past weekend with a real festival of baseball on the cards.

All up 18, games of baseball were held down at Targoora Park on Sunday, ranging from Under 12’s all the way through to Seniors A grade in the afternoon. It was a huge day on an off the diamond for all involved at Wangaratta.

Mixed results from Rangers.

Under 12’s – Rangers 9 defeated by Bears 21

Under 15’s – Rangers 15 defeated Bears 2

C grade- Rangers 6 defeated by Warriors 12

B Grade- Rangers Orange 4 defeated by Bears 24

Rangers Grey- 21 defeated Warriors 11

A Grade – Rangers 16 defeated Warriors 4

In all the years of writing Rounding Third, Line Drive cannot think that the results have ever been listed like above. It’s a real testament to the determination of the North Eastern Baseball Association and its member clubs, to grow the game and give more exposure and opportunity to play baseball in country Victoria.

More to come about that later.

So what have the humans of Rangers been up to lately?

O’Neil is slowly adjusting

Shaun O’Neil likes to stay out of the limelight, or so he says, but he just continues to bring great stories to Line Drive’s attention. After another great weekend in the cold of Ballarat, it has been suggested that “Old School” was so pumped to get back to the sun of Wangaratta that he left all his baseball gear behind in Ballarat.

After plenty of posts, messages and comments later, he was reunited with his gear before the start of play. On another matter, O’Neil was upset with his belt not fitting his pants. Until someone let him know that those belts were adjustable. Old School could not believe it! Many a year playing baseball and not once had he looked at the belt and thought to adjust it. Don’t change Shaun O’Neil. There would be so much less to write about!

Cods Masters Baseball Pufferfish 2023

After play finished on Sunday, The Cods gathered to present the Pufferfirsh award. The votes were counted and were read out by “The Big Cod,” Nathan Pool. In the end it came down to two individuals, and for highly contrasting reasons.

In one corner there was the master of the slow cooked meats Daniel Griffin. Griff definitely left a lasting impression on many team mates after training, for his meals of smoked and slow cooked goodness over the three days at Masters.In the other corner, Matt “Bulldog” Carmody, from all reports had a good time on and off the diamond while at Masters.

In the end, this was the main difference with Bulldog polling 32 votes to 17 to get the chocolates and the adulation from his fellow Cods. Bulldog is already looking to go back to back in 2024 and has thrown out the challenge to all as “I was only in second gear!”

Good luck for anyone who is looking to wrestle the trophy off Bulldog in 2024.

Ossie has one very hot Bat

A rather poor choice of words for a sub heading, but how else can you describe the start of the season Ossie Osbourne in Rangers grey has had?

Against Rangers Orange in week one, Ossie had three hits in their 16-10 win.

On Sunday he was at it again, racking up the hits against Wodonga Warriors. Keep throwing the bat in front of the ball Ossie. We all hope your hot form continues.

Heath likes the hot corner

Young Heath French got the nod to start in the A grade game at third base against Wodonga on Sunday. From balls hit down the line, to going out to get them, French was clean throughout. A highlight was his double play by stepping on third, and throwing a strike to Cam Scott at first. “Silver service” was heard over and over by Scott, with each play French was involved in. Nice work kid. It looked like you enjoyed that game!

JT in the house

It was great to see dancing man Johnno Taylor over at Wangaratta on Sunday, using his vast knowledge of the game to help out as third base coach with both B and A grade games. Taylor is unfortunately injured at the moment, but is still a valued part of the Wangaratta machine.

A few older heads loved his enthusiasm and his calling of plays throughout the day, picking up on little things that others might have missed.

Looking for more players

This year the North Eastern Baseball Association has introduced a C grade competition. This is open to young players who are making the intermediate step between junior and senior competition. Included in C grade are players learning the game of baseball, and those new to the sport.

Wangaratta Rangers are on the look out for anybody who has ever thought of giving baseball a go, but were not sure about how to go about it.

This is open to those who are 16 years old and above.

Game times are Sunday mornings from 10:10am to 11:40am. If interested, head down to Targoora Park Wednesday night from 5pm for juniors training and 6pm for seniors. Also, feel free to message the club via the Wangaratta Rangers Facebook page. Spread the word!

Podcasts, media shows but Line Drive is still here.

It has been great to watch and listen about all things North East Baseball over the past few weeks. From the Friday night Baseball Show, featuring the characters of the North Eastern Baseball Association to the weekly Rangers Podcast by one, Owen “The Big Table” Godenzi.

A special mention to Benalla Bandits and Porepunkah Panthers who have been working really hard to grow the sport in their own areas too. This was prevalent with the growth of the game as mentioned above with 18 games being played at Wangaratta. As a long time writer on baseball in the North East, it is pleasing to see all these other avenues of media being used to grow the game.

Now onto the club stuff

Please make sure your fees are paid as soon as possible

Lucky Ticket 29th July See the club for your Ticket

Training Juniors 5pm, Seniors 6pm Wednesday

Draw is available on Rangers Facebook page and www.wangarattabaseball.com

There was a lot to write about and there is a lot still to write about in the coming weeks. Till next time

Go Rangers.