Category: victoria

Rounding Third By Line Drive May 10th 2017

Posted on by LineDrive
Welcome to this week’s edition of Rounding Third, your insight into the life and times of the boys and girls who turn up week in and week out who represent the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club. It has been a while since Line Drive has been down at the club. He returned Sunday to watch Rangers Orange tackle Benalla Bandits followed by Rangers Black playing Porepunkah Panthers. In the early game, a new look Rangers Orange could not get the win against a well drilled Benalla. The final score was 8-1 the home sides way. In the late game Rangers Black hitters jumped out of the box and backed up some good pitching to run out winners after seven innings 18-2. More about these games later. Like last edition there are many tales to be told. So let’s get started.
Dropsy does it again
During the past month many of the Ranger men had a good time celebrating the marriage of Line Drives good mate, Cam “The Soak” Scott and Lauren “Mrs Soak” Grenfell. After the speeches had finished a natural hush had fallen over the crowd. Then smash! Kelsey “Dropsy” Burder shattered the silence by standing on his wine glass. This sent the rest of Nambrok along with two thirds of Loz and Cam’s wedding guests into hysterics and a good old Bronx cheer rung out across the venue. Daniel Griffin summed it up best to Line Drive…..”Ahhh Dropsy what a guy!”
 
Scotty MC
Scott Jenkins is a man of many talents. Apart from being the all round great guy he is, Scott is an excellent Master of Ceremonies. This was definitely the case at Cam and Lauren’s wedding up at Gapsted Wines. Scott rolled with it all and delivered as per the norm a very polished performance. If you wish to see Scott MC in action come along to the lucky ticket draw in July. More information about Lucky ticket draw in a future edition. Lauren especially appreciated Scott’s attention to her ‘itinerary’…. THANKS JENKO
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Ranger faithful supporting the boys and girls at Benalla
Catchers…need we say more
If you know baseball, one of the hardest positions to fill is the catcher. Lucky for the Rangers Orange, Brent “Plugger” Miller has  arrived. Once the domain of Dropsy Burder, Plugger has parked himself behind the plate and is doing a great job handling the veteran staff of Jason “The Game” Jonker and Brendon “Freeze Frame” French. Welcome to the Ranch Plugger!
Hard game baseball with no training
     Returning to the line up this week after his marriage to Ranger fan Lauren Grenfell, Cam Scott looked very short of match fitness. In the first inning “The Soak” took an accidental knock to the face and his base running looked, well, lets be blunt…horrible. It looked like every 90 feet was more a thousand feet. His excuse? Too much cordial in the past month. He has sworn he will turn up to training this week ready to get some match fitness back for the rest of the season.
The emergence of a new Spaniard
     It was great to see a debut for Ranger Black over the weekend, Alex “Barcelona” Gouveia. For those who did not know Alex appeared at training a year or two ago but it was the wrong end of the season. However, over the past couple of weeks Alex has caught the baseball bug again. He debuted on the mound for Ranger Black against Poerpunkah Panthers and threw four solid innings of ball. This included a pick off move to first which surprised the runner and also the first baseman in Cam Scott. The runner was caught short of his base by a fair margin. Gouveia was backed up by the ever solid defense of Rangers Black and looked to throughly enjoy himself on the mound. When you see him you will notice he has a small resemblance to Ranger favorite Angus “Spaniard” Young.
Rangers wager 2017
Over the off season avid tacticians of the punt, Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo and Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool have had a crack and came out even. It was decided while at the Alexandra Races that punters club will get off the ground again in season 2017. Pooly has been particularly vocal for this to get off the ground. It must have something to do with his beloved Essendon Bombers actually being competitive and winning games this year. On another note one wonders if Dan “Chopper” McCullough was happy with messenger notifications at strange hours of the morning from others bantering about a multi that was placed. Anyhow if you want in part of the fun and to hopefully fund your end of season trip or cash out, see master bagman Cam Scott for more information. The more numbers the more we bet. The more we bet hopefully the more we win. Disclaimer: Gamble responsibly.
Jacko goes Whacko
     Over the weekend, new Ranger, Jacko Wright went whacko and had his best game yet for Rangers Black. He hit and ran the bases hard. As Jacko learns the game, his speed will be a great addition to the power hitters in the line up.  Look for him to leg out a few more infield singles over the course of the year. He is also a high sock convert which is pleasing to see too.
Team Samuels 
     As mentioned in the must read of each week President’s Prattle, Jamie Samuels has put her hand up to be Rangers Orange team Manager. Maybe a new nickname is in order to reflect Jamies new position. Jamie the Gaffer? Jamie the Governor? What ever guys and girls come up with they are rapt to have you part of the team.
Juniors 2017
     It was great to see over the weekend how the clubs of the North Eastern Baseball Association have banded together to help develop the future of baseball in the North East. Players from Benalla Porepunkah and Wangaratta respectively had a hit and a modified game between the senior matches. Let’s just say there is some serious talent in there. Let’s hope more boys and girls get involved in the upcoming junior games over the season.  For more information about juniors check out the Wangaratta Rangers on Facebook.
Lep 2017 (How Tetsu says it)
     There seems to be a lot of reference to 2017 in this edition. Must be the year or something. Anyhow time has come for those who wish to challenge themselves against the other winter associations from around the state. North Eastern Baseball association are calling for players to represent them in this year Winter Championships to be held in Geelong. If you are interested please let the club know so your name can be passed along. As always it is a great weekend with baseball and good times in order. For those who like to go and tailgate it is a very fun weekend and plenty of good baseball is played too. All are welcome.
Ranger Ramble 2017
     Yes it is early to talk about this as the season is only four games old but ever the organised Daniel “The Griff” Griffin has organised this years trip. The Rangers are getting back to traditional trip values and heading to Bendigo. The cost is extremely reasonable and payments are now being taken. Where the accommodation is a mystery and there could be a raceday involved too. If you want any more information see Griff. I am pretty sure he will not say much else apart form where to be and where the trip is going.
One very happy Canadian
     Head coach Bryan “Moose” Wilson was very chuffed last week. He was rapt to hear that last week at Ranger training eighteen were out on the track, warming up running, fielding and hitting the ball hard. Must have something to do with the Tony “Spinner” Smith’s amazing Thursday night meals. The word has spread near and far about Spin’s Kitchen and the public are responding by heading to training. This week, it looks like it could be an old fashioned sausage sizzle. Remember training starts at 6pm sharp. Cleats on and head for a run before a throw. See you all there.
Relax got to training!
Relax and go to training boys Thursday Nights from 6pm
Show me the Merch!!!
     Plenty going on in this department. Recently “Boston Rob” Seymour has organised new playing caps which look sensational while man of beard Scotty “MC” Jenkins has organised some very swish looking beanies. These will go on sale very soon. Don’t forget we have ranger shoe bags, stubby holders and a new playing shirt are also on the way. Once again The Wangaratta Rangers will be the trend setters of the North Eastern Baseball Association. If you would like some of this great looking merchandise let the club know and they can hook you up!
Now for the club stuff
Fees are due see Scotty Jenkins for payment.
All games are at Wangaratta this week Rangers Orange vs Bears Green while Black tackle Bears Gold
Family day 28th May at Tagoora Park Wangaratta.
Training Thursday night, boots on 6pm sharp
Punters Club on again see Cam for details
Lucky ticket draw in July more information to follow
Playing caps available from Rob Seymour $25
Beanies on the way
Download the app Search for Wangaratta Rangers on http://www.teamapp.com
Congratulations to Mr and Mrs Scott on your nuptials
Juniors welcome if you are interested contact the club.
Been a big edition till next time. Just remember……
Go Rangers!!!!

Rounding Third By Line Drive April 11 2017

Posted on by LineDrive
Another week has passed and it’s time for another insight into what has been going on down at Targoora Park. Home of Wangaratta’s only baseball club. The Wangaratta Rangers. Over the past weekend the weather was a bit wild and woolly for baseball. But it was still played none-the-less. A good crowd turned out on Sunday to battle the wind and infrequent showers, followed by periods of sunshine but then more passing showers came back through. In the early game, a new look Orange lineup jumped out of the gates early and raced to five to nil lead over the Porepunkah Panthers. However, to Porepunkah’s credit, they  knuckled down and ground the Orange ladies and gentlemen into the ground, to end up running out winners 13-6. More about that game later on. In the late game, Wangaratta Rangers Black welcomed Benalla Bandits to the ranch. The Rangers hitters got on top early and combined with a solid pitching and defense behind Bryan “Moose” Wilson and Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool, recorded a ten to nil win. Benalla really brought it to the Rangers, and it was a good hard competitive game of baseball. All stuck around for a drink and a laugh after the days play. It was really great to see the camraderie between the clubs. The season is going into a two week hiatus now with Easter weekend, and with ANZAC day falling on a Tuesday the following week, many may take the chance to get away for an extended break. Or get married.
As Cam ‘The Soak’ Scott will do on April 22nd. Congrats to Cam and Loz on their upcoming nuptials. But fear not! Baseball and this correspondent will be back on deck in the following weeks. Now down to other Ranger musings.
Surprise Dino! Look who’s come to play!
     Nothing much seems to surprise the seeimingly unflappable Ian “Dino” Dinsdale at any time. However over the weekend he was very unaware that two of his daughters Leah and Lauren had been playing baseball over the summer for Essendon Baseball Club. All to get ready to have a season with their father at Wangaratta. As Master of ceremonies, Tony Spinner Smith was giving a speech, the ladies hid out behind the club room waiting for the right moment to come around the corner in Rangers uniforms. When the moment was right the girls appeared and a very unsuspecting Dino had a lovely surprise. Nice work ladies!  A special thank you to all who came down and was a part of this lovely occasion.
300 to French
     A big shout out and congratulations from all of us in the North Eastern Baseball community to Brendon French, who is the first Wangaratta Ranger to play 300 games for the club. When you think the club has been in it’s present form for less than 20 years, that is a lot of games played by the loyal club man. His 300th was spent behind the plate, and as usual he did a sterling job. And even after his first game, he wasn’t done for the day. Frenchy put his hand up to line umpire the Rangers Black vs Benalla game. Another moment for the French family as it was Damien “Damo” French’s first game in the orange and black. Another special moment for one of the clubs great servants. Congratulations French, and  Damo, from all of us at the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club.
Better call the RACV Tets.
     Word has it that Tetsu, “Yes Chef” Kamiyama, had a little bit of car trouble on the way home from Wodonga last week. Many other rangers heading home from the game witnessed Tetsu’s misfortune. Word had it that Tets typically took it all in stride and continued on in his own very unique way. As usual Rob “Butts” Seymour was there to help out Tets and help get him back home. Good on you Butts!
O’Neil has not lost it
     Shaun, “Flashback” O’Neil, has returned to baseball for the first time in many years. Already he has made an impact both on and off the diamond. In the first game of the year against Wodonga, my spies tell me that he hit and chased down everything thrown and hit at him. Over the weekend, against Benalla, this hot start to the season continued. Flashback hit nearly everything including a big home run that hit an air conditioning unit on of the buildings over at Cathedral College. Flashbacjk has even set the trend on fashion by modeling an old Saint Blue and gold silky baseball jacket. It would be great to see if any other old ball players and current members of Wangaratta have any old uniforms or jackets hiding away in their cupboards. Get them out show off the heritage of North Eastern Baseball Association. Line Drive’s good mate, Cam “The Soak” Scott, has already got out his old Tyabb Bulldogs jacket out. He is looking forward to showing it off at a later date. Maybe a heritage week of old jersey and uniforms could be put in place? Just a thought.

Chicks dig it
     Yeah that’s right, they dig playing baseball. It has been a great sight over the past couple of weeks, the number of ladies donning the Orange and Black of Wangaratta. As mentioned earlier, Leah and Lauren Dinsdale are playing the year with Dino but let’s not forget that the newest Nambrok member, Robyn “RPG” Percy-Goulding, has begun playing after being an avid supporter last year. Another lady has made a great impression too. Welcome to Jamie Samuels who has just fitted in seamlessly. Enjoy it ladies.
The Wright Stuff
     Another new player this year, Jackson “The Flash” Wright, is ready to make his mark on the North Eastern Baseball Association. He has already joined the High Sock Sunday squad as he likes the look of showing off the calves in the big high socks. He has the flash batting gloves and the bat to match. Watch for this kids speed on the bases, joining other known speedsters, as Azza “The Driver” Parker, and Shaun “Flashback” O’neil in tearing up the diamond. Exciting times ahead for Wangaratta Rangers.
Wyatt on the Hill
     The big Mick “Skipper” Wyatt, was like a kid in a toy shop over the weekend. He was excited to play baseball and was even ready for his turn on the mound. Mick got off to a ripping start getting a hit and then throwing out another returning player Steve Bryant who showed great sportsmanship to play for Porepunkah,  as they were a man down. When it came for the skipper to get on the hill and pitch for Rangers Orange, he stepped up and threw a fantastic three to four innings. He then made himself available if required for Rangers Black,  against Benalla. Once again another “A plus” effort from the man who will forever known as “The Skipper”.
The Prophet is all about the Cuts in the Cage 
     A little note came across this scribes social media accounts over the past week. Good friend of Line Drive, The Prophet, is running his eye over what is going on down at Ringwood Baseball Club. The Prophet’s first edition was an absolute cracker. There was a bit of name dropping which was very entertaining. The old Cod’s got a mention too. If you have not read it yet, check it out at https://cutsinthecage.wordpress.com/ It will be great to read the next installment.
Thursday Tea’s are here
     Chef, Tony “Spinner” Smith, will be hobbling around and cooking his famous savoury mince for dinner this Thursday night. The cost of the meal will be between $6 and $10 and you get a drink with that too. Come along, have a hit and a run around and get around your Ranger brothers and sisters. Stick around and learn to play some poker against Moose and all the other usual Ranger suspects. Have fun, share a laugh and ease yourself into a lovely Easter. An invite has been sent out on the team app so please accept it or reject there. If you do not have the app yet download it on-line and look for Wang Rangers. Team app has all your Wang Rangers news and events for season 2017.
Juniors 2017 
It has been great to hear on the radio this week about how North Eastern baseball Association are being proactive in the recruitment of juniors for the future. All clubs are working together so this year the association can send away an Under 12 team to the winter championships. Below is an excerpt from the Wangaratta Rangers website written by the President Tony Smith.
T-Ball and Under 12 Championship Training:
Under 12 training starts this Saturday 8th April from 3pm till 4.30pm at the grounds. Run by Kevin and some of the other players the aim is to get enough players to put in a representative side for the North East at the State Championships at Bendigo in late June. Kevin Pool is looking at players in the 8-11 years age brackets. A perfect opportunity for your youngster to get in to baseball and develop some skills and interest at an early age.
NEBA T-Ball Games: As an aside to the U12 training, NEBA are introducing T-Ball games to be held during the break between senior games on a Sunday. Due to start in Round 4, Sunday 7th May. The aim is to pool all available players to form sides to hold a proper
T-Ball Game. This is aimed at the 8 – 12 years bracket.
So if you know anyone who is interested please contact wangarattarangers@hotmail.com for more information.
Now for the club stuff
  • Fees are now due. See Scotty “The Big Show” Jenkins for more information
  • Thursday night Tea Spinner is the Chef. Get around it and cook too
  • Punters club is back. See the Soak for details
  • Happy Wedding Day Soak and Loz
  • Training 6pm Thursdays.
  • End of season trip date yet to be determined
  • Follow us on team app Wangaratta Rangers and on Twitter @WangRangers and http://www.wangarattarangers.baseball.com.au/
  • Frosty to return in the next couple of weeks
NEBA on a break
   Now games are scheduled for the next couple of weeks. Enjoy the time with your families and friends. Keep checking team app for updates and information in the meantime. Line Drive is off to watch the nuptials of Cam and Loz. Good luck to them..
Oh and Go Rangers

Rounding Third By Line Drive April 5th 2017

Posted on by LineDrive
Welcome to this weeks edition of the goings on of the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club. This week saw the start of the 2017 North Eastern Baseball Association season. The men and women of the Rangers headed up the Hume highway to take on the Wodonga Warriors at Gayview Park Wodonga. In the early game, Rangers Orange were competitive but were out gunned by a very good Warriors White outfit. After viewing the score book, it seemed the game was quite close to begin with, but in the end the Warriors White got on top  In the end the score line was 23-7. In the late game, those wily Rangers Orange veterans hit the ball hard and had day out in the field running out victors 31-0. Once again thank you to all those Ranger supporters who headed up the Hume to enjoy Wodongas hospitality. Now the season is here what else is news on the Ranger front?
Coach Moose is making his mark.
     Bryan “Moose” Wilson is giving the coaching caper a real crack. He has taken on the role with great gusto and enthusiasm. His little anecdotes each week are great to read. His enthusiasm about the future direction of the club is hard to ignore and all us in the Ranger family will get behind him and help him out. More clubs need guys like Moose to step in and lead with new ideas and philosophies. It will be a cracking season not matter what the end result for the Orange and Black.
Wanna know the news get on team app.
     Yes yes Line Drive does go on about this each year but if you are unavailable for a game could you please place it on team app. This will help out Moose and his merry men each and every week to know exactly who is available and who is not. How do I join the Ranger team app you ask?  It’s easy. Download the ‘team app’ look up Wangaratta Rangers and join. Once you are confirmed you are in! Voting is being done via the app too, so when it is your turn to vote on a game just enter your votes and submit. For more information regard team app or anything on line please contact Cam “The Soak” Scott. Everyone should spread the gospel which is North Eastern Victoria Baseball.
Game changer returns for season 2017
     As like last year statistics will be done to the best of Line Drive’s score book reading ability on Game Changer. It has taken a bit of time to set up and will be updated as regularly as possible. Search for Wangaratta Rangers on Game Changer to have a look. Rangers Orange is a 2016 season while Rangers Black is 2017. Clicked the wrong year on one. Apologies for that but it will still work. It’s a game changer!
Thursday night training.
     Finally it’s happening. After years of discussion training is moving to Thursday nights. This has pleased Yarrawonga resident Cam “The Soak” Scott no end. It means he can play Wednesday night golf then go to training on a Thursday! Training will be at the normal time of 6pm and if you are unable to attend please let Moose know. Thursday night dinners soon to be announced so keep your eyes and stomachs open for some cracking meals!
New Rangers
     It’s great to see some new Ranger faces this year. Already many of them are making an impact. Nice to see the return of Shaun O’Neill to the club, he has fitted back seamlessly. Who would have thought otherwise. Over the next few editions Line Drive will have some more information about how the new recruits are traveling.
One game in and time to talk about the trip
     If you saw the Rangers Facebook site the other night, the man of many talents Daniel “CFA” Griffin has already put his thinking cap on about this years Ranger Ramble VI. As all of you know the fines tin is back in action this year, and as usual it is an honor system. You stuff up, you pay! Trip is open to all who play for the Rangers and the minimum qualification is to play three games. Already it looks like there could be some trip rookies to add to the motley crew of regulars who look forward to this weekend away each year.
Was that Murdoch in Monday’s paper?
     Speaking of Griffin, his good mate Brad “Undies” Murdoch and his magnificent moustache were in Monday’s Border Mail. Both were representing Springhurst CFA with distinction in the country fire championships. Now my question is, is that a fine to the tin for being in the paper Brad? Or maybe just half the usual five dollars for a photo? It will be up to the fines master to decide that one.
Griff and the tin. That you put your fines in.
     Yes the tin is back this year. Over the summertime some of the older heads were schooled in how to run a fines meeting. Wonder if any of those fines will make it into the Ranger vernacular this year. Only Griff and his merry men of the Wangaratta’s number one boy band Nambrok can ultimately decide upon that one.
On the punt.
     Avid tacticians of the punt Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool, Steve “Fernando Chompers” Peruzzo and Cam “The Soak” Scott have been having a red hot crack on the punt over the past few weeks. They have been up then they have been down and now they sit…exactly where they started. Still this will not deter the boys for the coming season as they know a big win here and there could make the end of season trip a little cheaper. Maybe Rubberam you could back Essendon all year to win the flag? Maybe??
Bunnings BBQ another success.
     Special mention to those who helped out with the Bunnings BBQ a couple of weeks ago. Once again it was worth the effort especially getting our name out in the community once again. Spearheaded by Tony “Spinner” Smith the club gained some valuable dollars towards future ideas and plans. Nice work ladies and gentlemen.
A picture tells a 1000 words!
     This year it would be great to see more and more photos of baseball from all games out there. Post them and share them and show that we do have a presence here in the North East of Victoria. From training to working bees to just being at the game the more exposure the better. You never know you might get your picture used in this esteemed publication too.
Ranger men
Just looking for another photo opportunity gentlemen. Thanks to Tania Pool for the image
This week in baseball
     This coming weekend will be a cracker. All games are going to be played in Wangaratta this Sunday from 11:30am. Rangers Orange play host to Porepunkah Panthers while Rangers Black will be playing Benalla Bandits in the late game starting at 2:15pm. Over on diamond two, Wodonga Warriors will be play Bears at the same corresponding times. Full canteen and bar facilities are available all day. Come buy a meat raffle ticket to win a meat tray supplied by our valued sponsor Londrigan Meats. Once again the Ausport van will be in attendance so give them a call if you need anything before they come up the Hume so you can make sure you have it there this Sunday. Come along and enjoy a day out at the Ranch.
Good positive vibes.
     Line Drive is tipping the hat to those at other clubs in the North Eastern Baseball Association who are working hard to recruit players and develop junior programs. In the past couple of weeks the good folk down at Benalla Bandits have been out and about running t-ball clinics in Benalla and getting their name out there. It’s nice to see Porepunkah have got new uniforms and both Wodonga and Bears are promoting the game within their communities. It is great to see the clubs are looking to enter an Under 12 team in the winter championships and if this happens then it is a massive step in the right direction of baseball in the north east. Keep talking the game, up keep writing articles and most importantly let’s all get behind the great game of baseball. As a collective we can make it work and grow the game we all love to play.
Now to the club stuff
  • Rangers Orange vs Porepunkah Panthers 11:30am Targoora Park Wangaratta
  • Rangers Black vs Benalla Bandits 2:15pm Targoora Park Wangaratta
  • Check out Presidents Prattle on Facebook Team app and at http://www.wangarattarangers.baseball.com.au
  • Follow Wang Rangers on Twitter
  • Working bee this Saturday 9am. If you are free come along to help out.
  • Training Thursday night 6pm come along all are welcome
  • This is the first mention of Rob “Butts” Seymour for the week. Hi Rob.
  • Subs are now due. See Jenko for more information.
  • Merchandise available from the club check out Facebook for more details.
Well that’s it for this week. Have a great week please share and spread the word. Just remember you never know where Line Drive may pop up next.
Oh and…………….
Go Rangers

Rounding Third by Line Drive Cods edition 2017

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to the yearly wrap up of the Cods trip to the Victorian Masters Baseball Championship. This year’s carnival was once again hosted by those wonderful group of volunteers who year in and year out put on a great event in Ballarat. The boys headed off full of beans Thursday night ready for three days of baseball. After day one the Cods were sitting at one win and one loss. A competitive loss to the Big Cat’s Tomatoes. They boys were able to reverse the result by over hauling a fast starting Traralgon 9-4 Day two only one game was played by the boys where they were comprehensively outplayed by a hard hitting Doncaster 16-1. They boys headed off out for the day and were able to regroup on Sunday and defeat Tassie 7-0. At the end of the weekend Cods finished with an even ledger of two wins and two losses. Now that is the playing side of things done. what other shenanigans did the Cods get up to?

Warm up’s are overrated

     After a big Friday of baseball Cods turned up Saturday full of confidence that they were able to get another win on the board. All there in uniform early. Had a throw to stretch the arms. That was nothing out of the norm. However the next part came to a shock of some Codsmen. A bit of a warm up hit. When it came to game time this tactic did not pay off. Doncaster ran hot with the bat where the Cods were playing more like goldfish than Cods. In the analysis after the game there was a motion passed that we do not have a warm up hit before the game. Who’s idea was that?

Short stop who would be one?

     Seems to this writer that short stop is a cursed place. The Cods in three game have tried numerous shortstops and still no one is able to field a ball cleanly there. Cam ” Showtime” Rogers even dragged himself out of the position yesterday. Next to have a crack at it on Saturday was Rob “Butts” Seymour. who picked it up cleanly but throwing it was a problem. Finally by Sunday Cods had sorted their issues out with the position with Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool turning two unassisted double plays. One of them was like a stretching first baseman with the side arm throw. Looked very pretty.

Making mistakes, paying the price

     This year second year Cod Mark “Scoota” Farrow was charged with the job of leading the nightly fines meeting. Plenty was offered up to the panel and many fines were paid. Brendon French’s fine was triple as he decided to “glove” pump  the ball three times before her threw it to first. Still he threw him out by a number of steps. No one was spared with close to $200 being handed over the the Cods Masters Trust. It has been speculated that the money sill go towards new Cods playing hats and maybe new socks for all.

Office burn

Who would have thought that at this time of year you would get sunburn in Ballarat! After the past couple of years of adverse conditions Ballarat put the weather on for the weekend. After a windy start Friday morning the day turned into one that was quite harsh on the skin. Jason “The Office” Jonker felt it more than most. His head and face were beetroot red with that lovely sun-glass line. Of course he paid the price for it. He did take it all in good jest saying well he is an office worker.

The wild pitch

Speaking of Jonker he did have an interesting outing on the mound on Friday. There was talk in the dugout about how many batters you are allowed to hit. Jonker thought he would test it. He managed to hit three batters with the ball. However he did hit the same batter twice! The first time Jonker hit the batter he was in shock, the second time round it was just hilarious. He was not along to the hitting a batter illness. Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool managed to hit one or two too. At the end of the day we are masters and I am sure they would not have hurt too much.

Cods 6
Was this a straight one Jason? Image courtesy Brendon French

Virtual Golf Superstars

     What to do after an early game Saturday? Play some golf. But we don’t want to walk and we don’t have clubs? Oh lets play Virtual Golf. Not much walking but the thrill of hooking and slicing the ball none-the-less. The boys headed out to the Golfers Lounge and enjoyed the afternoon punting having a laugh and for Steve “The Hulk” Maggs breaking stuff. After a tough opening hole where The Hulk and Cam “The Soak” Scott pressed the wrong button and took a +9 Maggsy looked to belt the cover off his next drive. He made solid contact but the driver decided to separate from the shaft, leaving Maggsy holding the stick. In the game of ambrose Pooly and Barks took the choccies much to the annoyance of Robe “Beaker” Barbour and Rob “Butts” Seymour. If you get a chance head out to the golfers lounge for darts and virtual golf. Afterwards the darts came out and from memory Shane “Tatts” Tatterson was showing a dead eye for the big scores. As long as you beat Butts then it’s a good day!

Who wants to be the Golden Pufferfish?

    There were a few making a play for the title of Golden Pufferfish 2017. Big Cod Mick Brownlie was not there to feend his title so both Ash “Metalhead” Meyers and Rob “Beaker” Barbour made a play for the title. Both presented their cases very strongly but only one could win read on to see who it was.

Real Men Pitch day four

     Ash “Metalhead” Meyers had been spruiking to anyone who would listen that real me pitch day four. Meyers had played some good ball and was thrown the ball to pitch Sunday. backed up by sparkling defense and good offense Meyers threw four innings of shut out baseball. He made a final play for the “Golden Pufferfish” for the best Cod for the weekend. He won by a clear margin for his hitting, his defense and his all round sportsmanship on and off the field. Meyers did it all. Congratulations Ashley Meyers. I heard the Big Cod Mick Brownlie will be looking to regain the trophy in 2018. Meyers will be looking to go back-to-back.

Cods 3
The hard task of voting for the Golden Pufferfish. Image courtesy of Brendon French

Beaker in the clear

     After last year’s misadventures Rob “Beaker” Barbour was able to stay out of the path of mis hit baseballs. Instead him and Tony “Spinner” Smith did a sterling job of managers for the weekend. On behalf of all Cods thank you Beaker and Spin. Special mention to Brendon French for taking photos and documenting how the weekend unfolded. Hope to see more images on the Cods page soon.

Tassie Hospitality

     A big thank you goes out to those great blokes at Tassie Tigers Baseball. Friday night Chris “Chalky” Chalker invited the Cods to dinner at the Park Hotel and for a few beers. The Cods took up the offer and had a good feed and a punt on their behalf. At the end of the day this is what masters is about. Meeting others and having a laugh a beer and having a good time. Always good to see good people.

Ballarat Thank you

     A big thank you needs to go to Kingsley Collins and the Ballarat Baseball community for the work and effort putting on a wonderful weekend of Masters Baseball. We all love coming down the Hume and participating in a well run professional competition. The links we make with other teams makes the trip all worth it. We look forward to 2018.

Future Cods

     It has been floated that there may be two Cods teams next year. There is an idea that a 45+ team could be entered as well as 35+. Now it’s up the fellow Cods and new Cods to put their hand up and don the teal and black in 2018. We want you the former ball player. It’s not a huge commitment as well all enjoy just playing the game. If you are interested to be a Cod let us know via the Cods Masters Baseball on Facebook.

 

Cods 4
This could be you next year Image courtesy of Brendon French

To all Cods 

Brendon French, Tony Smith, Ben Barker, Shane Tatterson, Nathan Pool, Rob Seymour, Cam Rogers, Steve Maggs, Mark Farrow, Rob Barbour, Steve Peruzzo, Jason Jonker, Ash Meyers and Cam Scott hope to see you all again in 2018. To past Cods and future Cod we hope to see you on the diamond soon.

Cods baseball stuff

  • New hats next year
  • Want tape see Scooter
  • Tatterson racks up the hits
  • Chalky thinking he was barred from Cods page Saturday night
  • Beaker does not go out past 11pm
  • Fernando Peruzzo claims pop ups for hits
  • Jonker invests in sunscreen shares
  • Pool flies under the radar AGAIN!
  • Butts missing Mick Brownlie
  • Who will be new Cods in 2018
  • Meyers Golden Pufferfish 2017

Hope you have enjoyed the read and most importantly

Go Cods

Rounding Third By Line Drive March 14th 2017

Posted on by LineDrive
Hello again and welcome to this weeks edition of Rounding Third. Another week has passed and this means another week closer to the opening round of the North Eastern Baseball Association 2017 Winter season. But first there is one more very important event happening which one member of the boy band known as “Nambrok” love talking about and discussing…Cod 2017 is upon the North East. More about that in the upcoming insights into the goings on around the club. So let’s get down to it.
Coach Moose is here
     It is with great anticipation and excitement that Wangaratta’s favourite Canadian Bryan “Moose” Wilson has put his hand up to be in charge of the Rangers this season. Moose is already making an impression with his work on Wednesday nights. He has installed the every happy-go-lucky Rob “Butts” Seymour as his right hand man. Now it is our job as Ranger players and supporters and get behind him and help him out as much as possible. Good stuff Moose we all wish him the best for the 2017 season.
Bicycle..Bicycle..I want to ride my Bicycle
     Over the past weekend Cam “the Soak” Scott and Scott “The Beard” Jenkins went on a ride out to Oxley. All very sedate and a nice 15km trundle for a coffee and home again. It was all going very well as the boys rode along the bike path, talking and solving the problems of the world. The boys closed in on Oxley where The Soak saw a little bit of a dip through the dirt. Soak accelerated toward it thinking he could go down it. As he got closer he realized he could not. It was all too late for the Soak and he toppled over the edge and off his bike into the ditch. The Beard was reaching for his phone but The Soak recovered quickly to laugh it off and keep riding. He said it did not hurt. But this scribe knows him too well. Let’s just say he should stop thinking he is 21 when out riding like that!
Wake up Kelsey
     How’s the new car Kelsey? Miss an alarm did we? Typical Kelsey took it all in his stride and got the car at a later stage after a minor setback.  The minor setback was only 1500 kilometers to the north in Queensland but what’s a plane hop or two away for this guy. Not much. Wonder if he has fixed his alarm now?
Master Cods 
     Well it has been a while since anything has been said in substance about the Cods. So here is the time to get up-to-date with all the comings and goings in the Cod squad. This coming weekend we will see a collection of “legends” suit up in the teal and black and test themselves against others of similar ability and ideals. Ballarat is once again hosting the Victorian Masters Championships and the Cods look to hopefully win a game and more importantly catch up with some old friends and have a good time playing baseball. There have been a few personnel changes with Brendon French returning to the squad after a year off. Injuries have played havoc with the men too. Rob Seymours legs should be good to go for the weekend while Porepunkah superstar Heath Anders will be sorely missed. Big Cod Mick Brownlie is unavailable so his title as best Cod is up for grabs.
Look for a big weekend from “The Ringwood Connection” of Cameron “No highsocks” Rogers and Steve “Maggsy” Maggs. Theses cod brothers are fired up and ready to roll. Rob ‘beaker” Barbour has bought a new bike helmet to wear while walking around the diamond so the sky won’t fall on him. Tony “Spinner” Smith has done a power of work in the back ground and is looking forward to get out on the diamond. Steve “Chompers” Peruzzo is biting at the bit to have a hit. While others Like Shane Tatterson and Ben Barker are just keeping it all on a slow burn. What will the Wodonga Wizard Ashley Meyers bring to the table this year? Can Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool be elastic in nature for the entire weekend? So many questions.
So what will the Cods expect this year? Same as past years. This year we will not see a battle on the diamond against Tassie Tigers. however rest assure there will be plenty of verbal battles off the field, particularly, Tassie will look to try and get one over the Codsters. Will it happen though? There will be plenty of updates throughout the weekend of how the Cods are fairing as Line Drive will wander down and cast an eye over yesterday’s heroes.
Bunnings BBQ
     In a couple of weeks the club have another opportunity to spread the gospel of Baseball by manning the BBQ at Bunnigs Wangaratta. If you are available for a few hours please get in contact with Spinner or anyone else on the committee as every little bit helps. Check out the Facebook page for more information.
The Numbers game
     Now playing numbers are a very personal thing. Wangaratta Rangers needs your help to chase down who has played and is playing in what number. So far the club have a vast majority of playing numbers but they know there are a few more out there. So if you have played in the past few years and have a number please let the club know. They don’t want double ups as the club are ordering new shirts with names and numbers. If you want a name and number as a supporter then let the club know as this can be arranged too.
The training game
     With Cods soon to be over for another year, training will be on Wednesday nights down at the Ranch from 6pm. Come along and watch the future of the club with t-ball and then have a throw and a hit. All are welcome. If you are not going to make it please let Moose or Buttsy know. More communication the better. Dinner will return soon. Wonder who can cook the best this year??
Insurance matters
     This is more so for the older brigade who may be out playing this weekend but you are able to pay your insurance through the Wangaratta Rangers Website. If you need help with this please contact Cam Scott for more details on how to pay your insurance.
Club stuff
  • Cods Masters This coming weekend Ballarat 17-19 March
  • Bunnings BBQ Saturday March 25th
  • Season Opener April 2
  • Training 6pm Wednesday let Moose know if you are available or not
  • Soaks Wedding 22nd April…..
Anyway enough this week. Have a good weekend Cods. Should be a blast as usual oh and more importantly…..
Go Rangers

Rounding Third by Line Drive February 21 2017

Posted on by LineDrive
Hello and welcome to another summer snapshot of what is going on at Wangaratta’s one and only Rangers Baseball Club. Over the past week we have begun training, devised some big plans for the club rooms and even had a throw and a hit for good measure. We have welcomed some new faces around the club and all the usual suspects are gearing up for another season in the North Eastern Baseball Association. Before that there are plenty of things to discuss and other newsworthy items. Let’s get down to it.
T-Ball is a tearaway hit!
     Each Wednesday night the sultans of swing Bryan “Moose” Wilson, Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool along with Tony “Spinner” Smith and Kevin “The Legend” Pool have been putting the junior rangers through their paces. Last week saw over twenty kids running the bases hard and learning the skills of Rangers Rookie ball. In the next few weeks look for some exciting announcements about what the Ranger Rookies will be receiving. In the meantime look for Moose’s recaps on the Facebook site along with the clubs website. If you want to get involved head down to Targoora Park each Wednesday night from 6pm. All are welcome.
CODS update.
     Yes again some peoples favourite topic, CODS is almost here. The Older blokes have had a run around for the first time together for 2017 on Monday night. Looks like Rob “Butts” Seymour does not know when or how to slow down judging by his gravel rash on his leg. His excuse? He forgot he was wearing shorts. Good start to the cod season there. Since when have the cods boys slid in to base anyway? Bet you won’t see Rob “Beaker” Barbour doing that! In other Cod news, looks like all the usual suspects are gearing up for another trip the Victorian masters games in Ballarat. The carnival runs from March 17-19. Roll those arms over gentlemen they are going to get a workout!
Anyone seen the Big Cod Brownlie
     It has been a few weeks since Mick “the big Cod” Brownlie has been seen. Rumor has it he has put in a solid summer in preparation for his return to the Cod uniform in 2017. Brownlie has much to prove on the diamond this year. Wodonga’s Ash “Rockstar” Meyers is ready pumped and primed for the campaign ahead. Once again most eyes will be on Brownlie to see if he can defend his mantle as “The Big Cod”.
Wednesday night training
     Yes the Rangers boys and girls are back in training on Wednesday nights from 6:30pm down at Targoora Park. There are some new faces young and old looking to wear the orange and black this year for Wangaratta. Already the comments on some abilities to hit a ball have come into question. Jason “The Game” Jonker was questioning Cam “The Soak” Scott’s ability to hit the ball.  Later on while down in a short bit of infield work, Jonker failed to pick one ball up cleanly. This delighted the Soak taunting him “Just wait till you pick the ball up cleanly then how good will you be!” Once again the banter has started early.
Pres’s Prattle
     Tony “the master of Spin” Smith is a busy man once again leading the club from the front. In conjunction with line drive he is one of the main mouth pieces for this little club we call ours. Contrary to his name Spin is to the point and pulls no punches. He is a master grounds keeper over the summer time making sure the  surface of Rangers diamonds will be up to scratch once the season begins. Make sure you check out his posts on both the Rangers Facebook page and on the Rangers website. http://www.wangarattarangers.baseball.com.au
Spaniard living the summer siesta life.
     Well not entirely….. Angus “The Spaniard” Young has been plying his trade this summer with the Footscray Baseball Club. Talk is he enjoyed it so much that he is going to extend this to the Melbourne Winter season. Good luck Gus keep swinging and connecting.
The Rams are coming
     Saturday 4th March pencil it in Rangers and Codsters alike Croydon Rams will make a visit for a game and some true country baseball hospitality. If you are available for the game please let the club know and there will be a spot for you waiting and ready to go. More the merrier. Come down get involved and be seen around the club early on.
Rangers want you
     It takes many hard working individuals to make a club run smoothly. From chasing sponsors to cleaning up the diamonds, every little bit helps. Remember we play baseball because we love it and we love our club. We are all busy but come down get involved do a little bit to help out. Have a look, grab a rake, cook a meal, no matter what it is the club is always grateful.
Now for the Club stuff
  • Cods training next Monday night 6pm
  • T-ball Wednesday nights 6pm. Training 6:30pm
  • Practice match vs Croydon Saturday 4th March get along and get involved
  • Victorian Masters Games March 17-19 Ballarat
  • Bunnings BBQ if available let the club know
  • Start of season 2nd of April (oh wow wee)
  • Follow us on Twitter @Wangrangers and on Team app.
More in the next few weeks. Thanks for reading and
Go Rangers

Rounding Third by Line Drive Summer Edition 2017

Posted on by LineDrive
Hello and welcome to the Summer edition of North Eastern Baseball favorite publication. It has been a quiet off season for the men and women of Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club but this will all change pretty soon with the season fast approaching. Once again this year the club will be professionally run by the master of the prattle President Tony “Spinner” Smith along with the motley crew of characters which make up the one and only baseball club in the rural city of Wangaratta. So if you are a first time reader I welcome you and for all you returning readers welcome back and hope you enjoy the insights into what is going down at “The Ranch”. Enough of the introduction let’s get down to what is going on and what is coming up.
Ranger Ramble another smashing success.
     It has been quite a break since our last little correspondence. Since then, twelve intrepid souls headed over to Adelaide for 2016 edition of Ranger Ramble. Now thinking back to then the weather was not kind to the South Australians. Cam “The Soak” Scott and Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo went a day ahead as a scout party and found out the op shop game in Adelaide is not nearly as good as Melbourne’s. When the other men arrived their outfits were pretty impressive. Though all agree wearing op shop shoes is not a great idea. Anyhow the highlight of the weekend was most certainly the AFL Grand final on the balcony down in Glenelg. A great day was had by all. To the organiser Daniel “The Griff” Griffin well done. Where to next men?
Happy Trails Dylan
     Over the summer the club waived goodbye for the time being to Dylan “Pickle” Cowan. Dylan and his lovely wife Marnie have headed back to America as Dylan got a offer for further study. He will be sadly missed by all of us at the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club and along with the wider sporting community. It was a very good article in the Wangaratta Chronicle highlight how much of an impression Dylan has left on countless people. Good luck on the studying Dylan. We will see you soon.
Nambrok take on the world.
     Over the Holiday period four intrepid members of Wangaratta’s favorite boy band “Nambrok” took what looked like one amazing trip overseas taking in Hawaii, Canada and the United States. From the pictures the boys posted on scoial media all were having a great time and left one Daniel “Hank Scorpio” McCullough behind for the year. Have a great year abroad Chopper. This writer is sure you will.
Golfing conundrums
     Now there are quite a few at the club who do like a hit of golf. Some play better than others. This was clearly evident one Novmeber morning with Testu “Iron Chef” Kamiyama, Rob “Butts” Seymour and Cameron “The Soak” Scott. The Soak was never in the hunt all daty at black bull where he once again gave a up a few golf balls into the numerous water holes around the course. Each time one of the others had a laughr at someone else expense they too would fall foul of the golf gods and their ball would disappear. By the end “The Soak” was clear winner with a ball score of six under. That’s six balls into the water, with four balls lost on on the one hole. If you play bBlack Bull, make sure you hit the ball straight. A wonderful but very unforgiving golf course.
Cods update.
     Yes Kelsey Burder’s favorite topic. CODS. The boys are suiting up for the annual trek to Ballarat from March 17 to 19. Already many of the boys are getting a bit excited for renewing acquaintances with old mates and the possibilities of new friendships. Big Cod Mick Brownlie is very psyched and is looking forward to renewing his friendship with Rob “Butts” Seymour. Not sure how Buttsy is felling about it. The boys will be getting together for run soon. Some specific training will be in order for Cod brother Rob “beaker” Barbour who is going to learn the art of where not to stand to get hit by a ball.
Let’s get together for a run
     Wednesday 15th February it has been decided to come down dust off the glove and shoes and come down for a hit and a run around. T-ball will be on as well so come along have a look at our future> Coaches Moose and The Legend Kevin Pool are doing a terrific job with the young guys and girls and more to help out the merrier. So be ready Wednesday 15th from 6pm. If you want to come down for a throw and a hit you are in!
Short one so here is some club news
  • Training 15th February
  • Possible game 4th March TBC
  • Victorian Masters Games March 17-19 Ballarat
  • Bunnings BBQ 25th March
So in all welcome back and most importantly spread the word about Wangaratta Rangers
Go Rangers

Rounding Third By Line Drive Presentation Edition 2016

Posted on by LineDrive
Hello and welcome to the presentation edition of Rounding Third. The ranger family got together over the weekend to celebrate season 2016 at their valued sponsor Cafe Martini in Wangaratta. Plenty of laughs were had with all in attendance having a good chance to mingle, chat and joke with one another. Most awards were given out and received graciously, some awards were in good jest and won by deserving recipients. More about that later.
MVP Matters
This year The Rangers decided to use teamapp for all voting purposes, to award the ‘Most Valuable Player’ award. Ranger IT guru and good friend of Line Drive, Cam “The Soak” Scott was busy each week lining up four players, scorers or supporters  to vote on who they thought played well in the Orange and Black. The votes were then tallied and presented on Saturday night. Two very deserving winners were announced. In the Rangers Orange the award went to Jason “JJ” Jonker by a clear margin from Kelsey Burder and Brendon French respectively. For Rangers Black, ol Rubberarm Nathan Pool was crowned MVP for season 2016 in front of Aaron Parker and Scott Jenkins, who had a breakout year with the bat. Congratulations to all winners
Who spat the dummy?? It was a suprise!
    One of the more prestigious trophies awarded each year is to the person who had a a bit of a breakdown. Cam “The Soak” Scott, surprisingly, was awarded the dummy spit for his meltdown up at Porepunkah. By all accounts from the man with the poison pen, Kevin Pool,  it was a beauty. When asked about the award Cam did respond with “oh yeah it was well deserved. Gee it was a good dummy spit. One of my best”. It looks like he spared Scott “The Beard” Jenkins from being given the trophy.
Seymour goes back to back on the fly!
     Merchandise guru and wannabe DJ Rob “Buttsy” Seymour was rapt with going back to back in the annual fly ball award. Butts won this award by a short margin last year, but this year he opened up a gap on his opposition that could not be bridged. He is already talking about a three-peat for next year. In the off season look to see Buttsy wanting to spin some decks on the local pub scene.
Strike outs shared
     The annual whiff bat was taken out by both, Kyle “The Thrill” Gilmore and Tony “Spinner” Smith, for season 2016. Their strike outs came in batches of multiples which placed them at the top for the award. Both were not surprised by being declared joint winners. Never mind boys it will be time for someone else to step forward next year.
Coach Burder a man of many words
     Kelsey “mini bus” Burder can be a man of many words, or actually no words at all. When quizzed on any aspects of games and the season, Burder trotted out the line “uhhh I don’t remember this game” followed by the next line when asked about another game of “uhhh I don’t remember this game either”. One has to question if he remembers winning the B grade premiership this year? The one thing he does remember is how poor he threw on the mound against Porepunkah and still managed to get votes for the game!
Ranger Ramble in Radelaide 2016
     This weekend the boys are off to Adelaide to watch some footy, baseball and celebrate the end of another great season. All the usual suspects will be in attendance. Ably led by Daniel “The Griff” Griffin, the boys will enjoy the sites and sounds which Adelaide is known for. The day is always one to look for, being the main theme day. The theme this year is $25 Op Shop. Anything spent over the amount is into the tin for all to enjoy. Looking at the weather forecast, it is going to be cold. I wonder how that will affect the fashion icons such as Brad “Undies” Murdoch and Daniel “Chopper” McCullough? Not to mention Nathan “Rubberarm” Pool who goes all out year after year. All will be revealed at 7am Friday at the airport.
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Last years dress up. This year is Adelaide and Op Shop.
Cods news
     Victorian Masters will be held once again in Ballarat March 17-19 2017. There has already been strong interest shown by past players and reigning Cod master Mick “Big Cod” Brownlie. The one condition if he goes is that Rob Seymour must go too. Masters is open to all  who are north of the age of 35. Check out Cods Masters Baseball on Facebook for more details over the next few months. Once again as the Cods get older they still think they are as good as they once were!
Ranger Club news
Committee meeting in October .
Stubby holders available for purchase from the club. See Butts for one
Cods Masters information. More to follow
Ranger Ramble in Radelaide is on 30th-2nd of October. Good luck boys!
Check out the photos on our Facebook page.  Thanks to Brendon French for the pics.
Make sure you are available for the game in Benalla Mick Wyatt!!
Well that’s about it this time round. Once again thanks to all our valued sponsors out there and most importantly, you the readers and supporters of the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club. Till next time,
Go Rangers!

Rounding Third By Line Drive August 24th 2016

Posted on by LineDrive
Greetings and welcome once again to another week of news and stories about Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club. The grand finals have been run and won in the North Eastern Baseball Association. All Finals were played in Wodonga at Gayview Park. Benalla and Wodonga Warriors started the day off with Benalla winning 12-0. In the morning final the men from Wangaratta Rangers Orange jumped NASC Bears Gold early and ran out winners 11-3. In the last game of the day after five tight innings bears opened the throttle and ran away with the final 17-3. It was a great day of Baseball in the North easy and special thanks needs to to go to the Wodonga Warriors Baseball Club for getting the grounds looking great and to all supporters who came down to watch throughout the day. So what else is news?
Orange go from strength to strength
     The Wangaratta Rangers Orange men have shown great improvement throughout the season. After a rough start early on, the boys knuckled down and were able to string together some wins for the end of the year. This was evident in the elimination final against Porepunkah Panthers. In the decider the following week, The orange bats came alive from the first inning and behind some great pitching by Brendon “#59” French the boys got the job done. Man of beard and memeber of the Nambrok crew Daniel “The Transporter” Griffin had a day out with the bat racking up hits at will. Griff has been in a purple patch of form with the bat and glove the past few weeks. Not to be out done Ranger cult hero Kyle “The Thrill” Gilmore lived up to his name and was instrumental in getting the out to end the game. The crowed roared for Gilly and was a fitting end to a great game.
Orange winning 2016
Winners are grinners Ranger Orange. Thanks to Tania Pool for the image
Kelsey “The mini bus” Burder steps up when it counts
     The last few weeks has seen Orange manager go through some tough times with his chargers. It all started with the savaging as mentioned in the previous edition of this column when the doyen of the Rangers, the man with the poison pen Kevin Pool savaged Burder for his pitching ability against Porepunkah. This has not stopped since with his men calling him “The Mini Bus”. A few members of the club could not work it out why he was being called a mini bus. The boys enlightened those who did not understand that he is only half a coach! So hence the name mini bus. This had stemmed from him forgetting gear amongst other things on gamedays. However when it came to grand final day Mini Bus  Burder was able to be upgraded to a fully fledged 57 seater coach. He called a great game from behind the plate and chased down every foul fly ball. He hit the ball hard and was constantly heard throughout the game. He was the leader of his pack. His pack responded by playing hard and fair. Congratulations Coach on a great job in 2016 with Wangaratta Rangers Orange.
Chopper Wiggle
     When standing in the batting box many base-ballers have habits that they do to get ready. Multi sport athlete and all round great guy Daniel “Chopper” McCullough has the bum wiggle while getting settled up at the plate. With the high hoop socks and always immaculate appearance it has become a ritual at each Ranger game. The wiggle worked as Chopper hit and had a day out at centre field. Now he is chuffed to have played in a winning final with his great mates The Nambrok Boys. It has been great having you down at the Ranger Ranch this year Chopper.
On base machine Doc
Sean “The Doc” Warfe mentioned that this is his first grand final win in a very long time and he was proud to be a Ranger for it. He should be as Sean has been in white hot form as an on base machine. In the past couple of weeks he racked up walk after walk and hit after hit. This gave the rest of the lineup a perfect launching pad to score the runs they did. Great stuff Sean!
Rangers Black fall short.
     With The Orange men winning in the curtain raiser, rangers Black were looking to defend their title against a very determined Bears Green. It was a game that had it all, great hitting, good defense but someone always has to win. In this case it was Bears Green. No matter what the Ranger men tried it just was not meant to be this year. After five tight innings the floodgates opened and Bears Green were never in trouble after that. The score does not give a true indication on how long the game was tight for. At the end of the day Bears Green was just too good. The Ranger boys stuck around and had a drink with their fellow baseball brothers after the game as it always should be done. Win lose or draw always stick around have a chat and a drink with the other clubs who worked hard to put on a great grand final day. That’s one thing Rangers should always be proud of. There is always next year gentlemen.

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Wodonga Warriors know how to style it at the Grand Final
     With Wangaratta’s ground being underwater again, the Grand Final was moved up the Hume to Wodonga’s Gayview Park. The ground was in much better shape than Wangaratta’s and was the perfect choice for the final. The boys had it looking tidy and sensational and the canteen was stocked. One more point of difference was their fire drum. It was portable. This does not sound any different to many fire drums around the state but the main point of difference as it was a washing machine drum in a shopping trolley. This made it very easy for the Warrior boys to wheel it around and keep warm wherever they were. Each year our Warrior brothers entertain and support the grand final in the best way possible. With good humor and fun. On behalf of Wangaratta Rangers, thank you for your hospitality all season with our ground being unplayable. All for the good of baseball in the North East.
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Ready for action Warrior style!
Seasons over Let’s celebrate with strange phone calls
     Sunday night the Ranger family gathered back at Targoora Park for Pizzas supplied by Cafe Martini and a catchup and debrief about the days play. All celebrated in style round the fire with some “interesting” conversations on the telephone. Thinking back over past grand final nights this is nothing unusual. In the past few years phones have been broken random strangers called, so in all was just another night at Ranger land really.
Presentation night Saturday 24th September
     Same place as last year upstairs at Cafe Martini Wangaratta, 6pm onwards Saturday 24th September. All are welcome and Annual general meeting will take place before the presentation. Come along celebrate a great year in true Ranger style.
Ranger Ramble 2016 Radelaide 
     Voted the best club trip by any club in the north east for another year is only a month and days away. A theme has been decided upon. It will be $25 best op shop with tags to be still on the garments. This is for authenticating the stipulations and conditions. A prize is awarded to the Ranger with the best choice of threads. Those who are going get saving and be ready for a cracker of a weekend. Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo and Cam “the Soak” Scott are so excited they booked an earlier flight and arrive on the Thursday! More details to follow.
Season may be over, time for T-ball
     In the coming months T-ball will begin again for another summer. Look for more details on the Wangaratta Rangers website in the coming weeks for more details. One thing is for sure Bryan “Moose” Wilson is raring to go with his budding ground of future Rangers.
Photos galore!!!
     It was great to see on the Facebook page an assortment of photos from both Wangratta Rangers Black and Wangartta Rangers Orange games. The photos that were shared were sensational. It gives a real picture of what Rangers are all about. A family. A friend  of Line Drive wished the club good luck on Sunday morning from London. Claire Smith may be on the other side of the planet but she had time to thinkk about the family that is Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club. On behalf of myself Line Drive and all other members of the club we thank our supporters, scorers, sponsors for season 2016. We hope to see you all out there cheering us on in 2017.
Ranger News 
  • Presentation 24th September pm Cafe Martini Wangaratta. All welcome
  • Ranger Ramble 2016 September 30th to October 3 Adeliade
  • If you have a community Raffle book please get it back to the club ASAP
  • T-Ball to begin after daylight saving start. More details will follow later
  • Follow us on twittter @WangRangers on Team App and on Facebook
  • New stubby holders available See Butts for details
  • Can we mention CODS yet? Please can we? Oh wait I did!
  • Note the editor is away so if it not makes sense apologies!
Well that’s it for this edition. Been another big season. I seem to say that each year. To all who I have thanked mentioned throughout the year or maybe not thank you. Till our next time thanks for reading and….
Go Rangers

Rounding Third By Line Drive August 11th 2016

Posted on by LineDrive
Greetings and welcome to this weeks edition of Rounding Third. Wow what a weekend the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball Club have had. It all started on Saturday night with the successful running of North Eastern Baseball function of the year; Wangaratta Rangers Silver Circle. The successes continued on into Sunday with The Rangers Black squad a few players down getting over a determined and dogged Benalla Bandits. The end score was not a true reflection of how competitive this game was. The Rangers Orange squad had he week off. Hope they had a nice day on the couch wherever that may have been. Next week It’s finals time at Springdale Heights Lavington. More about that later. What else is news? I hope you keep reading!
Silver Circle Lucky Ticket a smashing success
     Over the past weekend saw the holding of the annual North Eastern Baseball function of the year; Wangaratta Rangers Lucky Ticket Draw. There was a good crowd in attendance once again and Rob “Butts” Seymour thinks it was was the best one yet. Plenty of fun was had on the microphone, in the coin toss, and of course on the lucky ticket draw. All members of the club chipped in and lent a hand when it was needed. This enabled the night to be another runaway success. The roast beef rolls supplied by Londrigan Butchers was extremely well received. The bar staff led by The Pres Tony “Spinner” Smith were outstanding behind the jump. Now onto next years event where the club will be looking to keep the good vibe of the evening rolling.
Late night grooving at Targoora
     Once the draw was done and dusted, the lights were dimmed and many of the Rangers faithful let their hair down with some very amusing dance moves. Brad “Undies” Murdoch and Cheyne Gilmore were very impressive with their moves to Darude “Sandstorm” which left the crowd cheering for more. Kelsey “Burderonthedancefloor” Burder did not disappoint with his great rendition of Peter Garrett dancing. Very hard to top that. When the Club shut up for the night the Kelsey kept the good vibes rolling by playing Lowrider by War. A classic! Good taste in music Kelsey
Tetsu arrives!
     Late on Saturday night when the good folk down at Targoora were having a wow of a time Tetsu “IronChef” Kamiyama appeared out of nowhere! Sadly he missed the end of the draw but was enjoying himself at the wonderful dance moves that were out on the dance floor at Club Targoora Saturday night.
Black get the job done with eight players!
     Last Sunday While the Orange boys had the week off, the Wangaratta Rangers Black squad traveled down to Benalla once more to take on the Benalla Bandits. Benalla’s home ground has held up probably the best in the association this winter and once again thank them for their hospitality in getting a game of baseball in. Rangers Black only had eight players of varying fitness at their disposal after the previous nights festivities down at Targoora Park. However it did not seem to have any effect on the men as they hit and ran and played with greater intensity. They did not have it all their own way as Benalla hit the ball and made Rangers Black earn their win. Travis “Iceman” Frost was so relaxed in the batting box that he sent his bat into orbit over the fence and almost collecting a few spectators with it. For the record it was strike three too.
Hold onto that bat Frosty
Hips don’t lie
Wyatt the Ball Magnet  
     Seems to not be a week that goes by that Mick “The Skipper” Wyatt does not seem to get plugged by the ball. It happened twice on the weekend. There is one person who can solely sympathise with him being one Rob “Beaker” Barbour. Beaker can get hit by a ball when not even playing. Try that for luck.
KP the man with the poison pen
     A couple of weeks ago known Peter Garret fan Kelsey Burder decided to spice things up and bit and thought pitching looked quite easy. So he wrote the team sheet out and started himself on the hill for the Orange squad. After an inning where he failed to achieve an out for 40 minutes Burder decided to throw the ball to The reliable one Jason “Gamer” Jonker . This did not go unnoticed by ranger legend Kevin pool who is his weekly write up in the Wangaratta Chronicle was savage on his thoughts about Burder’s pitching abilities. When asked what he though of KP’s remarks, Kelsey in his usual laconic way said he agreed and Kev did not miss with his opinion that he should stick to catching. Check out last Friday’s edition of the Chronicle for the writeup (5/8/2016)
Finals time
     The season is done and now two weeks of finals. Rangers Orange will play Porepunkah Panthers at Springdale at 11:30am Sunday while Rangers Black will tackle Wodonga Warriors White at 2:15pm. Both must win to progress. These two games will not be easy and once again will be played in good spirit by all teams involved. If you go nothing to do Sunday come up to Springdale Heights near the Springdale tavern and come see some baseball North East style! Best of luck to all competing clubs.
Bunnings BBQ this Weekend
     This Saturday all the Ranger legends will be cooking a snag and saying hello at Bunnings in Wangaratta. Drop in say hi to the friendly Ranger folk grab a snag. Everyone loves a Bunnings snag. The season may soon be over but here at the ranger land there are many great plans in the pipeline for the club to improve upon. All are welcome.
Ranger Merchandise
      Coming soon new ranger merchandise. Most notably stubby holders. Everyone loves a Wangaratta Rangers Stubby holder don’t they!  Man of action Rob Seymour will be sourcing these from a good place soon. Look to get one. They always go quick!
T-Ball to return
     Watch this space ladies and gentlemen. Bryan “Moose” Wilson is already thinking of drills and skills the young future Rangers are going to develop this spring and summer time down at the Ranch. So sweet new Ranger tops are in the pipeline and more details about this will follow in upcoming editions. Make sure you keep up to date on Teamapp, Twitter and Facebook.
Ranger Club News
  • Finals this week Sunday Springdale Heights. All welcome spread it!
  • Bunnings BBQ August 13th, Roster up on Facebook page please have a look
  • Follow us on Facebook Twitter and Teamapp. Look for Wang Rangers.
  • Presentation Cafe Martinis September 24th
  • Ranger Ramble Adelaide Grand final weekend September 30th
  • T-ball to begin in coming months. More details to follow
  • HAPPY BIRTHDAY AZZA PARKER!!!
Well that’s it for this weeks edition. Big weekend ahead. Thanks for reading
Go Rangers