Category: Wangaratta

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.

Line Drive presents The Voodoo Diaries 10th November 2022

Posted on by LineDrive
There is always one who doesn’t get the memo

Hello and welcome to the next instalment of Line Drive, “Voodoo Special” at the Pan Pacific Games on the Gold Coast. After a relaxing Monday off, the boys took to the field on Tuesday. In damp conditions, Voodoo defeated Wolfpack (Coffs Harbour) 8-0. Then, in a very good game of baseball, Voodoo fought back to draw 7 all against Surfers Paradise. On Thursday morning, after a few nervy moments, Voodoo defeated the Ray’s (Gold Coast) 11 to 5. A complete master class by John Kus steered the men through choppy waters, to make the Gold medal game on Saturday!
On Thursday afternoon, Voodoo came up against a red hot Good Bunts (Gold Coast).
Voodoo finishing on the wrong end of a 12-3 scoreline. At the end of the the day, you can’t win them all! But you can have fun, which the boys have a had a lot of this week.
Now that you’re up to date with all that, here is a recap of the past few days on the Gold Coast.

Seagulls…..
Long time readers of Line Drive know that Rob “Butts” Seymour has always been a source of real entertainment. Butts is a real foodie. Loves a good meal and has a real respect for others food choices around him. The seagull in Butts was out being his pesky self once again this week, asking the usual “Are you going to finish that?” Another trick he has now dded to his repertoire, is his ability to take a slurp of your drink. Many a person fell to this trick over the past couple of days, where it was said that Butts didn’t pay for a drink all night, but ended up very merry.
Even Luke Hornstra got the real Rob Seymour experience. Seagull Butts proceeded to hound and chase him down the street before Luke had a chance to even have a bite of his late night snack. Classic Butts!

Let me Explain.
There are those who use their words wisely and there are those who don’t. Some use creative language and some have a pretty lazy vocabulary. Line Drive (and his editor) pride themselves on accuracy and informing the reader in a way that all can understand.
Others, like to elaborate, embelish and give what we call in Voodoo speak as, a ‘Judetorial.’
To be able to ‘Judertorialise’, is only available to people by the name of Jude.

Shirts so bad they’re good.
A big talking point around the Pan Pacific Masters Games has been the Voodoo evening attire. Line Drive finds it hard to describe separately but as a collective, it looks brilliant. Many other competitors have complimented many a member of Voodoo on the choice of the shirt. Keep a keen eye out in the next few days on the Gold Coast as the shirts will surely get a run again.

Shigenauri shines bright.
Voodoo Masters is made up of many varied and wonderful individuals, coming from far and wide to put their hand up to play. Shigernauri Suzuki made long trek from Perth Western Australia, to play with his mates from Traralgon Red Sox. He may not have played with the boys for the good part of ten years, but it’s like he only left yesterday. In a conversation with Line Drive after Thursday’s game, Shiger said he is just so appreciative to have had the opportunity to come along, play with Voodoo, and share time with great friends, old and new.
We can’t wait to see you again in two years Shiger!

A team effort.
As part of Prattys playbook, Bradley Pratt spoke in a wide ranging email about the importance of helping out your fellow Voodoo. With the spa having heating issues at the resort, Owen Godenzi took it upon himself to warm it up himself. Kettle after kettle of hot water went in, so much so that it became an obsession.
Your effort was duly noted O!

Barker and Graham. Some kind of Voodoo magic!
With the Voodoo already assured a spot in the gold medal game, the squad had the opportunity to rest some weary arms and legs. Two such individuals took it upon themselves to see out the final round of matches on Thursday. Josh Graham was happy to throw some innings and Damon Barker, with a crook leg put his hand up to catch. As mentioned above there was no word of grizzle, they got the job done for the team.
From all who are part of Voodoo, your selflessness does not go unnoticed.

Stat’s that exist that do matter.
The word spreading around Voodoo, is that Josh Graham may have more strikeouts per 7 innings than Jude Power. Baseball just throws up so many curveballs. Isn’t that right Jude?

Voodoo vs Surfers – GOLD MEDAL MATCH
Saturday 12th November afternoon livestream. Yes that’s right. Voodoo vs Surfers 4pm VIC local time, if you want to see the legends if Voodoo in action for the gold medal game we would love you to tune in.
Link- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCM97QNmELUnkTa1rQJaBVvA

GO VOODOO!!

Just another day at Voodoo. Saturday watch the livestream.

Rounding Third by Line Drive Cods Edition April 2022

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to a special edition of Rounding Third; The Cods Masters Baseball Edition. Over the past weekend 22 players from Albury, Wodonga, Porepunkah and Wangaratta put their hand up to go represent the Cods in the Victorian Masters Baseball Championships held in Ballarat from April 1-3. This year the Cods were able to field two teams in the 35 plus and 45 plus age groups. It was nicely balanced with both teams having eleven players.

Day one saw the Cods 35’s win one/lose one while the Cods 45’s had a similar pattern with their two matches. On Saturday both sides put in a solid effort with the opposition proving much stronger, while on Sunday, similar theme with both sides having a dip but not getting over the line. Another enjoyable weekend had by all in Ballarat. Now with the formalities of how the sides went neatly wrapped up, I wonder what else happened?

Bulldog holds court.

This year’s Master of the penalties is one, Matthew “Bulldog” Carmody.  Matt is one who is born to lead a group of bottom feeders like the Cods. He made his presence felt by coming in white hot Thursday night. Great friend of Line Drive, Cam “The Soak” Scott copped the full force of cyclone Carmody after a 4 hour drive from the border.  The Soak was caught on the ropes and did not know what was going on. One thing for sure is that if Bulldog says hello to you, make sure you reply straight away!!! Isn’t that right Soak?

Mick’s greatest hits.

Mick Wyatt’s hit parade continues with a collection of some of his greatest hits. Early on Friday morning, Wyatt was a ball magnet. He was hit by the ball in his first two plate appearances! Many of the Cods were hoping he would be hit again in his third plate appearance, but instead he got a base hit instead. However for Wyatt, the day just continued to improve, as he hit the ball to all parts of the field in the second game. Lucky for Mick he was not hit by a pitch again for the rest of the weekend.

Barker: Just doing Barker like things

One of Porepunkah’s finest, Damon “Barks” Barker had a chance at a rare feat on Friday at Vic Masters. The chance at the fabled cycle. For those who are reading for the first time, a cycle is a single base hit, double, triple and a home run.  Barks got the single, home run and the pesky triple out of the way.  However Barks got “peacocked” by one, Tetsuya “Mr Chow” Kamiyama. With the game almost done and dusted, Tets failed as Nathan “Fomo” Pool called out to “READ THE ROOM!!!” to give Barks a chance at a rare feat. Tets got a base hit and that ended the chance as the Cods were far enough in front.

In true humble Barker style, he just moved on. However Barks got the ultimate prize. He was awarded the pufferfish for best Cod in 2022. Congratulations to Barks. Great stuff

Everyone hits at Cods

When you decide to put your hand up to play masters, there are two basic principles to play Cods by. For yourself, get a hit. As a team, score a run. Amazing to say that ALL 22 cods have achieved the first principle on day ONE! Over a conversation with a couple of fellow Cods, it has been ticked off. Through all the years of attending the masters, this scribe cannot think of a year that every single Cod player got a hit in for the weekend.

Nice socks men!

One for the Cods history books.

One Seymour is better than none

It was bit of bad luck that perennial Cods favourite, Rob “Butts” Seymour was a notable absentee for the latest edition of Cod Ballarat 2022, with some commenting it was not the same without Butts there.  However, a Seymour was still in attendance. Buttsy’s brother, Tim “Brother Butts” Seymour donned Cods colours for another year. Year in and year, out Tim just slides into the team like a well fitting old baseball mitt. As usual, he ran fast, caught fly balls and hit the ball to all parts of the field, doing his job like a typical Seymour does. Tim had such a good time he finished in the placings for the pufferfish award This made Ash Meyers “I didn’t know the Seymour’s had teeth! Then i saw Timmy smiling. Who knew! A happy Seymour! Sure we will see him once again in Cods colours in 2023!

Whiteman has a new shiny toy

Sean Whiteman bought himself a new shiny piece of equipment. A very nice looking blue and white baseball bat. Many a Cod player commented on how nice and shiny the gloss white paint and blue handle looked but were wondering, are there many hits in it? Unfortunately for Shaun in his first couple of at bats with the new stick, he neglected to use it for its intended purpose. It was more of an ornament while up at the plate. By Sunday this had been rectified and to all concerned the bat was being used for it’s intended purposes.

Nice play gents

Scoot on down the road. Just watch the face.

Many of the Cods players decided to try a new mode of transportation around Ballarat over the weekend. No Uber’s, no taxis, no bicycles. The scooter became the ‘go to’ ride of choice to get between places. Some Cods were adventurous enough scoot back to the rooms from the baseball diamonds.

From Nathan Pool ripping a skid (with the attitude to match it) into the accommodation, then Tetsuya Kamiyama almost riding into a sign, scooters were going everywhere. Some just rode them around town before they went back to their rooms. The talk around masters on the Saturday and the Sunday was that there was a player from one of the teams who had come off their scooter and tasted the pavement. The person involved had a nice reminder on their face. Ironically the player almost achieved a matching one on Sunday after a baseball jumped off a bump and hit the other cheek. Now who would that be?

“Oh No…”

The phrase no one wants to hear when the ball is hit in your general direction on the baseball diamond, is a player calling out “Oh no…!” before it even reaches them. This happened to Nathan “Fomo” Pool, who had the misfortune of knowing what was going to happen next after the “oh no” was verbalised. The ball trickled out of the glove and behind Pooly at shortstop. In all the years Pooly has been playing baseball, he says it’s up there with one of the worst errors he’s ever made. Still he stuck with the next few and made amends for his first audible “oh no” moment in a long time.

Cods and Saturday Quaddies are not friends.

Ash Meyers said this was the year. This was the year the Cods will get the first leg and get into the Saturday Sydney quaddie. He proudly proclaimed this while at the local establishment Saturday morning. He gathered 12 hardy souls to go into partnership with picking the numbers. The boys were feeling good until Meyers let everyone know around the table that NO ONE had picked the favourite in the first leg, but taken the field in the second leg. Problem is, the first leg is more important than the second in this matter. Meyers probably shouldn’t have told us what was left out. So, what happens next? Yes you got it, the favourite wins and, for the 6th year in succession, Cods fail to get the quaddie out of the gate. Cods will try again next year.

Is there something in the water in the North east?

A few other sides were shocked to see so many left handers in the Cods 35 plus lineup. So were the Cods! The distribution through the lineup was one that was most interesting. Instead of right ,left,right,left…….let’s just put them altogether. At one point the lineup read as follows first six hitters were-

  1. left handed
  2. left handed
  3. right handed
  4. left handed
  5. left handed
  6. left handed

Many an opposition side were wondering what was in the water in the North East? It was observed that most of the leagues lefties were in Ballarat for the weekend. The reason for clustering them altogether? No reason. Maybe the managers were amusing themselves. Back when the season starts, normality will return to the batting lineups.

Just an image of some average left hander from Cods

Spinner can do it all

Tony “Spinner” Smith is the ultimate team man. From gathering all the players date of birth, data entry and organising two sides for entry, to scoring his first game of baseball in 20 years (he did it twice) and being a clutch hitter off the bench, Spinner did the jobs that need to make Cods the well oiled machine many have become accustomed to. It’s a big job to organise blokes from different clubs to come together and gather the data required for entry. From everyone involved in Cods in 2022 they are very appreciative of the efforts Spinner put into make this happen. Great job Spin.

Cods baseball would like to thank

It has been a big effort by many people over the past six months to make sure the Victorian Masters Baseball carnival was a great success. A big shout out to the hosting clubs of Ballarat Royals and Alfredton Baseball clubs who coordinated and made the weekend an extremely enjoyable one. To Rick Tresize who took on the job of coordinating the draw and all that goes with that task, a big pat on the back. To the umpires, players of all teams, scorers, photographers (yes KC Line Drive saw what you did!) a massive thank you to you for making it another fantastic weekend of baseball, stories and revelling in the fact we are getting older but we still love the game like when we were young.

To the Cods crew of game day managers 35 plus of Mick Wyatt and Heath Anders and Damon Barker and Tetsuya Kamiyama for guiding the 45 plus. Nathan Pool for coordinating accommodation, to those who drove down from the north east and to all players who had a ripping time. If I have forgotten anyone I apologise! And for spelling names wrong too!

Cods 35 plus for 2022 were

Mick Wyatt, Heath Anders, Scott McCallum, Cam Scott, Brendan Cameron, Shaun Whiteman, Shaun O’Neil, Ross Johnson, Nathan Pool, Brendan Simmons Paul Meddings

Cods 45 plus for 2022 were

Damon Barker, Tetsuya Kamiyama, Ash Meyers, Randy Skippen, Jason Jonker, Tony Smith, Steve Peruzzo, Tim Seymour, Adam Rosser, Adrian Quinton, Rian Banks

Not to forget no 1 ticket Cods holder Matt Carmody for his role as master of penalties.

Hope you enjoyed the read. These are only some of the stories from a great weekend. All is in good fun and faith. Till next time

Go Cods.

Rounding Third By Line Drive August 2021

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello to all out there and welcome to a late winter edition of Rounding Third. A few months and a couple of lockdowns have passed since we last caught up with the goings on at Wangaratta Rangers, but we are lucky that some baseball has been managed to have been played over the past month or so. This week, there will be two games with Rangers juniors and seniors in action at Targoora Park. At 12pm, the under 15’s will play against  Porepunkah in the grand final while at 2:15pm the A grade Rangers will be tackling a very determined Porepunkah for the right to play Albury Bears in the Grand Final. More about this and that later. Let’s get down to business!


Junior Rangers make the grand final

As previously mentioned in past editions of Rounding Third, one of the success stories of 2021 has been the reintroduction of  the junior baseball season, with all clubs being represented in either the under 11’s and under 15’s age groups. Line Drive was watching the young Rangers being put through their paces last night under the tutelage of some of the best, and the way all have developed over the season has been absolutely sensational. This was evident over the past weekend when they managed to get over the line against Wodonga in what Line Drive understands was a highly entertaining affair. This week at 12pm will see them take on Porepunkah on Sunday at 12pm. Good luck!


Shout out to all of those little things!

A big shout out go to all those who has assisted with the development, implementation, enthusiasm and commitment to the North Eastern Baseball Association Junior League 2021. From coaches each week at training, on game days, to parents and guardians for making the effort on some cold Sunday mornings, to those volunteers who do the canteen week in week out. To all those across the association who do the one percenters to showcase and spread the word about baseball in the North East of Victoria. A BIG THANKYOU!


Rangers Canteen. What an effort

It has been a big year between lockdowns for the club. With the ability to host more than one game at a time at Wangaratta, this has seen an explosion in the number of games at Targoora Park. This has put a little bit of pressure on superstar two sport athlete Daniel “The Griff” Griffin. Griff has been fantastic this year once again getting the the canteen stocked, restocked and restocked once again to feed the hungry baseball fanatics young and old. Not to mention the variety and the kindness of others to make up treats each week for the players and supporters of all clubs to enjoy. If you see Griff around the grounds let him know his efforts are appreciated.


Two B grades. No problem

With the introduction of a second B grade side in 2021, the club was taking a leap of faith in that by going bigger, it would encourage more players to the club and also give everyone more game time. This was most certainly the case in 2021. With two very even sides, both were highly competitive throughout the season, with Rangers Grey finishing on top of the ladder, while Rangers Orange were third. The percentage difference between second and third was 5 runs! Rangers Grey have secured their spot in the grand final and unfortunately due to current restrictions, the higher ranked team on the ladder, Albury Bears will play off in the Grand Final (to be determined at a later date.) Sadly this means Rangers Orange season is over. To paraphrase President Nathan “FOMO” Pool sums it up beautifully;

“I would like to thank Steve Peruzzo, Mick Wyatt and Sean Warfe for their coaching efforts this year with orange, grey and all players, new and old. It has been an awesome effort to split out one B grade into two sides and have the results we have had this year. I’m extremely proud of our club and the way it carries it self on and off the field. Please get behind our juniors for their grand final this weekend and A grade in their preliminary final”

Rangers Orange

Moose returns. Old School mouths off again!

A late season inclusion into the Rangers A has been Bryan “Mr Pickleball” Wilson who has returned to playing after taking a break from the game. He has been a welcomed inclusion in the lineup and for the first time in a long time Rangers had a full compliment on a Sunday. Another luxury which has seldom been enjoyed in season 2021, is having impact player Shaun “Old School” O’Neil come off the bench and in his words against Wodonga a while back, “Show you how to do it as you shown nothing so far (sic)”He did and the the rest of the lineup then got into the groove of the game. Lets hope this continues on Sunday against Porepunkah.

Scott’s talk goes to another level.

Also during the above mentioned match against Wodonga Cam “The Soak” Scott decided to play word association games with last names of the Rangers A grade. With no spectators in attendance, some would say good, others would say rather horrible word play was the order of the day, with even the Wodonga boys getting involved. Most of it centred around the exaggerated Bryyyyyyaaaan and the Nathan “Fomo” Pool’s last name. Phrases such as “put a fence around it” was back, and also, “a game played on a green table in pubs” was bellowed between plays. Then it turned to what goes with Pool. It even brought a smirk from Nathan who was pitching at the time. You do a lot of standing around on the diamond so may as well enjoy it between plays!

Goggles forget something?

Good to see Sam “Googles” Grigg has returned to his forgetful best. His glove was last seen sitting on a concrete table out the front of the clubrooms a week or so back. Would Goggles have collected it yet? This scribe thinks not, but I am sure one of his crew would have had his back for him. Where’s the tin when you need it!?

Goggles using the aforementioned glove

Peruzzo goes swiping left

This is a recollection from about a month or so ago (who can remember!!) but while reading the recaps from Game Changer an interesting statistic caught the eye of Line Drive. Multi talented farmer Steve Peruzzo swiped three bases in a B grade game! Going back through the records of the past few years, one thinks this is the most bases he has stolen in the past three years! When asked about his penchant for on pinching bases, Peruzzo put on his coach hat. “I had to lead by example”. It worked as Orange went on to win the game!

Getting the extra work in

Great to see Nick “The Rookie” Jonker getting some tips from a Ranger legend at training last night. From out on the field with Rob “Butts” Seymour to working with Butts in the batting cage on his hitting. Coupled with another young Ranger out there on the field last night, it is great seeing these young men want to improve their game like the rest of us. The season may soon be over but let’s stick together and continue to enjoy one another’s company into the warmer months no matter by just having a throw or a hit in the cage. Being connected through the club is one way to keep healthy and happy.

Jonker demands the return of Line Drive

Resident male model for sunscreen, Jason Jonker was asking The Soak about the whereabouts of Line Drive. He was demanding it was time he got off his backside and wrote something. The Soak assured him that he’d been in contact with Line Drive and that something was in the works in the past few days. Rest assured Jason, Line Drive even has some photos this week too! Line Drive is present and always looking to mention whoever for something good or something amusing.

Game face Jason Jonker

Now onto the club stuff

  • U/15s vs Porepunkah from 12pm Targoora Park (maybe a livestream for you all out there)
  • A grade Rangers vs Porepunkah 2:15pm.
  • Got your fees in? See Spinner and sort it out please.
  • Presentation penciled in for Saturday 11th of September for both Juniors & Seniors.
  • Rangers 21 + 1 is postponed till a later date. Was slated for 18th of September. More details to follow in the warmer months.
  • Got a personal sponsor? Line Drives’ friend does. Make sure you get around local businesses and show your support for them.

The final word. Look after one another, get around the club and the banter in the following weeks, no matter what happens. Stay awesome and Rounding Third will be back sooner rather than later,Go Rangers

Rounding Third by Line Drive May 2021

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello there and welcome to the May edition of Line Drive. The North Eastern Baseball Association season 2021 is well and truly in full swing with both the juniors and the seniors now well into their seasons. Over the weekend, the Rangers walked away with three wins from three games against Porepunkah and Bears respectively and our juniors had mixed fortunes with the under 15’s recording a win and the under 11’s fighting hard but not quite getting over the line. What else is news around the club? Hope you enjoy the read. (Note much has been written over the course of the week, and my editor was not available to edit so it may ramble on in sections. Apologies)


Pool is renewed!

If anyone has watched President Nathan Pool play baseball over the past ten years, many would notice the old style pants he has been rocking out. Well they are no more!!! A discussion between ultimate Old School Shaun O’Neil and Cam Scott made the observations with his new looser fitting baseball pants and the his grey style baseball cleats, no undershirt, Pool looks like a new player.  Maybe a few new tricks on the diamond too might be in the offering. 


Tetsu sees red

There are many things that this scribe has seen on the diamond over the years, but there was a new over the weekend at Porepunkah on Sunday. Tetsu made an error. Surely many of you readers out there will say, that’s not unusual but the manner of the red error 6 was what made it stand out. Straight through Tetsu’s legs tunnel ball style. Skipper Aaron Parker was walking off, Porepunkah boys were stunned, but as usual Tetsu offered up all sorts of excuses. The ground, the ball. We all know what it was Tets. Red means error.

Late in the game on a beautiful sunny Sunday in Porepunkah

Busy times down at the Ranch.

It has been a very busy start of the year with a lot going on on and off the field. It has been great to see so many people getting in and helping out in the canteen and throughout all areas of the club. Many have been coming to training early, to cooking a meal on a Thursday and to umpiring and scoring all the games we have across the Sunday each week. To all of you who volunteer your time and make the effort to make training, take training help out wherever, thank you.


Was that Bailey at Porepunkah on Sunday? 

Line Drive rocked up to have a look at the Rangers grey game vs the panthers on Sunday when there was a person who played with the rangers a few years back. As the person got closer it was the one and only Bailey Bell who had donned the Rangers colours for the first time in a while. Asked about how he felt about pulling on the cleats once again Bailey remarked “It felt good!” Good to have you back on deck Bailey.

Enrique in full flight on the mound


Din Dins returns to Thursday (well when I wrote this it was)

Yes dinner has been on the menu down at the Ranch for a couple of weeks after training and for those who travel the kilometre’s such as the Team Jonker, the aforementioned Tetsu and Yarrrawongian Cam Scott do sure enjoy it. This year we have already seen Spins special,  and Azza’s Burgers. It doesn’t matter what it is could be toasted sandwiches, to a plate of pasta and sauce these meals are certainly appreciated by those who travel to play for the club they love. Wonder what is next on the menu in the future? 


Johnson is red hot

Resident lego man Ross Johnson is off to one hell of a hot start to season 2021. Rossco has just let his bat do the talking and this was the case again over the weekend in Porepunkah. Johnson collected another four hit game. So in five games so far he has already had 14 hits for the season. Nice work Rossco!


Thrillmore opens the account    

Great to hear that Kyle Gilmore thrilled supporters of North East baseball with his appearance for Rangers Orange a week ago. Gilly was back to his best getting a hit being hit and and ol fashioned Gilly strikeout. Rumor had it that Brad Murdoch got in his ear and got him to get one of his four games up to qualify for Ranger Ramble 2021 wherever that may be. 


Juniors are go!

The best thing to happen in the North Eastern Baseball Association this year has been the return of the junior competition with all competing clubs working hard to make sure they have junior representation. This already has given the competition and new dimension and one feels this push will continue on. With renewed focus on all areas of social media websites, it feels like the association is making traction in a very busy sporting arena. A big thank you to all the parents, supporters and coaches of all the juniors across the association. Let’s keep the momentum going!


A baby Warfe!  

From all of us at Wangaratta a huge congratulations to Sarah and Sean Warfe of the safe arrival of Thomas Alexander Warfe, Great news in another great week for the club. Hope to see you all down the club in the near future! 

Old School returns

Great to see one of Line Drive’s favorites Sean “Old School” O’Neil is back out on the diamond this season. He did mention over the weekend that Line Drive was looking for any means just to mention his name in this little blog so all will be said it is good to have you back. 


Godenzi goes Gavel banging 
Man about town and all round good bloke Owen Godenzi has been hitting the ball a long way this year. One must think it comes down to the lumber he is swinging. This was evidently the case after last weekend where he snapped his favorite Gavel bat and was swinging something else that resembled a railway sleeper. O has a few more on order and Gavel products are very well finished too. Check them out online via Facebook at Gavel Baseball Bat co.

Skipper Aaron Parker looking on with purpose


Now onto the club stuff

Merchandise available for purchase, drop the club a message and secure your gear!Training WILL return after the latest lockdown. Check us out on all the socials, and give us a like and spread the word about the great game
Most importantly right now keep connected, be kind to yourself and others.
Till next time 
Go Rangers

Rounding Third Cods Edition April 2021

Posted on by LineDrive


Hello and welcome to Aprils installment of Rounding Third. This time around there is much to discuss around the return of Cods to the Victorian Masters Baseball Championships. This tournament was held over the weekend of April 9th to the 11th at the Geelong Baseball Center. Thirteen Cods were dug up from the murkiness of the waters in the North Eastern region and went off to test their mettle over three days of baseball and other things. It was another cracking weekend of laughs good times and some good and bad baseball! Well let’s get into it! Where to start?


Cods finish all square.

Starting a bit different this week with a quick recap of all four games. A typical Line Drive take on them once again. 


Game one Rebels vs Cods 

Let’s start with the actual games. On day one Cods got to start their 2021 round with a match against Rebels. Cods were relaxed and loose before their first game together in over 2 years. So much so, Cods jumped out of the gates and raced to an early 3-0 lead. However a close double play curtailed the innings and it was the Rebels turn to slowly but surely chip away at the Cods lead. The wind was playing havoc and many a ball looped over the heads of Cod fielders. One such ball saw Ash Meyers get his feet about 2 inches off the ground! A couple of errors then followed and the Rebels were on top. Cods tacked on another run late but to no avail with Rebels recording a 7-4 win. Good performances on the mound from Jason Jonker and a quick cameo from Tetsuya Kamiyama before time expired. One game for the Friday. 


Game 2 vs Tip Rats

Day one early start Geelong Baseball Centre

The Cods basked in the glory of a late sleep in for two games in challenging conditions on day two in Geelong. Game two stat was Steve Peruzzo who’s cameo appearance was one to remember. It was unfortunate the Cods were not on the scoreboard early as Peruzzo cracked a double into left field for it to find the only small gap under the fence and for the ball to roll under for two bases. With that, Cods were unable to take an early lead.  Starting pitcher Ash Meyers in four innings of guile and the use of rain, wind, hail and good looking socks held the Tip Rats to 3 runs. Cods slowly but surely got on top and again Peruzzo was at the front of the charge. He cracked a ball that went to the deepest part of the field and looked to leg out a comfortable triple. However as the fuel light came rounding third on he was asked to head for home and was thrown out of at the plate. In the end it was the Cods who prevailed on a home run by Brendan Simmons to win the game in a walk-off for the Cods who were quite surprised they had won. End score was 4-3.

In action play from day 2. Pity cannot see those wonderful socks!


Game 3 vs Sloths 

The weather was continuing to play tricks on everyone present in Geelong as sun, then wind, then rain,  then more sun greeted all those who were playing in the match against the Sloths. Much action was taking place before the game as many were trying to organise the quaddie for the day. Game three starter was Ross Johnson who looked in command for most of his 3 and 1/3 innings of work. One Sloths player remarked that it was difficult to pick his off speed stuff with the rubber wrist Johnson possesses. Sloths got a run here and there but the Cods stuck to their task. Tony Smith couldn’t pick up the ball in sunny conditions earlier vs the Tip Rats, but he had no problem looking into the sleet and hail an murkiness to get an important out at a critical moment in the game. Now from here, things got a little weird. Rob Seymour came onto pitch. After maybe one or two warm-ups Seymour was ready to go. One hitter remarked after he had thrown the ball behind the hitter to hit him as he has been hit there in the previous two games. Seymour obliged and managed to hit the poor batter in the same spot for the third time for the weekend.  Seymour continued to find it difficult to find the zone and the Sloths capitalised. Brendan Simmons was then brought in to get out of the inning but Sloths held a comfortable lead. More power hitting from Steve Peruzzo helped garner a late run but to no avail going down 6-1. 


Game 4 vs Doncaster

A rather bleary eyed, tired and puffed Cods outfit got the job down in a very cold and blustery Sunday morning. Jason Jonker got the start and Cods just hit the ball and scored runs. A big shout out to Tim Seymour who jumped in and played for Doncaster to help them fill all nine positions on the diamond. Nathan pool came in for relief and finished the game off. In the end the Cods won by the score of 10-3.     So in the end Cods won two lost two. All square once again in 2021. A special mention to Jamie Samuels who came and score the games over the weekend. To Rob Seymour who took charge for the weekend and filled in the paper work and rung the changes. The small tasks but none-the-less the tasks that need to be done. it was greatly appreciated.


Scott has a Stinker

Good friend of Line Drive Cam Scott had a weekend to forget from the baseball point of view. From the first at bat to the last, not much really went right for the man from Yarrawonga. Usually quite astute at playing his preferred position, Scott made it look rather difficult and at times quite comical. From dropping pop ups in the diamond to routine plays, nothing looked fluid for him. In the final game against Doncaster a car alarm went off in the middle of his plate appearance and he remarked to the umpire “well that just sum’s it up. Not much else could go wrong” However there was still something else with a ball bouncing a different direction by hitting the only stone on the diamond. All Cam could do was shrug his shoulders and put his arms up despairingly. Maybe next year the wheel may turn. Maybe……


Jonker rules the court

Jason Jonker is this year’s Cods master of indiscretions. From all accounts he took to the role like a duck to water. No one escaped the wrath of the fines master. From Tetsu not wearing a cap to go out and field and thinking there were three outs after rolling a double play to those who happened to turn up at a meeting, he did not miss the mark. Suffice to say there was quite a collection by the end of the weekend. To Jonker’s credit he did chip in his own cash too. One thing is for sure, new merchandise could be on the way! 


Rangers represent

The men and women of Wangaratta Rangers braved the chilly conditions to watch the Cods in action on Saturday. Armed with all the trappings of home, the men enjoyed watching some interesting baseball in some very trying conditions. Maybe Daniel Griffin should pay a little more attention when an errant foul ball nearly cleaned him up while he ate his chops beside his vehicle. From a players point of view it was greatly appreciated. The men and women of Wangaratta made the effort to come have a look and enjoy Geelong as much as the Cods did. Maybe they will be future Cods in the years to come. 


The Silver Pufferfish Award

This years award went to Ash Meyers who enjoyed himself immensely as he always does at Cods. After three days of baseball he beat out another previous winner Rob Seymour for the award. The reasons for him winning were his on field description of his Friday night. If you really want to know maybe just ask Ash. 

Whiteman wiffs at one and snap!  

It was great to see Sean Whiteman finally dirty his new cleats he had bought over twelve months prior. He had a good weekend playing solid ball and being the boss he is in right field.  Whiteman also broke the first bat of the weekend. A nice blue number purchased the previous day by Nathan Pool. After Pool could not decide what bat to buy and was told to “just buy both” so he took the advice of the peanut gallery and did so. The ball that did the damage was on the hands, and from the first sound it made, the bat is now firewood. Lucky for Pool the bat did come with a warranty. Sometimes the bat last longer than the day! 


Good to see some familiar faces.

One of the highlights for Line Drive is to catch up with old friends at Masters. This was the case on the weekend where it was great to see former team mates from the clubs he once played for. Talking baseball and about how to grow the game and working together was a common theme. Also talking about how good they once were as well. Maybe just maybe there are some good times ahead working together to grow the game in the North East of Victoria. 


All about the socks! 

Yes there is always something to discuss about socks but over the weekend it was especially strong. Friday black socks, Saturday old school stirrups followed by high sock hoop Sunday. In an amazing turn of events all sock colours matched the playing tops. Once again those leading the sock charge: Jason Jonker, Ash Meyers and Cam Scott. Now to get it right at old Ranger land! 


Cods 2021 were

Rob Seymour, Nathan Pool, Steve Peruzzo, Tony Smith, Ash Meyers, Brendan SImmons, Jason Jonker, Tetsuya Kamiyama, Damon Barker, Tim Seymour, Cam Scott, Ross Johnson, Sean Whiteman. Line Drive thanks you all for a great weekend. He heard about it all and enjoyed writing this one for you. 


Now onto North Eastern Baseball stuff

North East Baseball returns for 2021

 After all the excitement of the past weekend, baseball returns to the diamonds of the North Eastern Baseball Association. Well done to all clubs who have been working hard in difficult times for all sports to put sides together for juniors and seniors for season 2021. Round one will be played at North Albury and Wodonga respectively. Like to know more? Follow North Eastern Baseball Association on Facebook, and Instagram. Just look up North East and look for a bushranger logo. 


One photogenic guy!

Some other eagle eyed masters followers found a recent image of Owen Godenzi playing masters over the weekend. One must note this seems to happen year in year out for the Rangers number 51. One guesses there could be a little fine coming up. Retrospectively, Azza Parker may need to cough up too for a nice image from a few weeks back after his man of the match performance for Wangaratta in the country cup! All in good fun gents. Why would you not want to be photographed? It means more publicity for the Wangaratta Rangers out there!  


Grounds Keeper Wyatt is happy! 

A big shout out to those at Wangaratta who gave up their Saturday afternoon who help sow and sand the diamond. It has already made a massive difference and will be ready for the first home game in May. Groundsman Mick Wyatt is one very happy individual in how it has come up. Well done Rangers.


Want a hoodie? We know a guy! 

Does not do it justice. I am still adjusting to new layouts!

New hoodies are available to purchase form the club. They look great and are big and warm too. I know Brad Murdoch was keeping warm in one over the weekend in Geelong. Check out the image below and then drop the club a message to get one. Hats, beanies and caps are all available as well. Come along to Thursday night at training from 6pm and grab one.


Junior news

Junior training will return after the school holidays on Thursday  22nd of April. Numbers have been really good so far for the return of junior baseball. If you are around and can spare an hour, Owen would be very appreciative for your time, as would the new pupils of this great game. If you know of anyone who is interested in giving it a go please spread the word and feel free to come down and check out Rangers Baseball from 5pm Thursday. 


Now for the club stuff

  • Training 6pm with committee meeting to follow Thursday night.  Juniors to begin next week.
  • Follow us on all the socials to keep up to date.
  • Bears vs Rangers Grey Springdale Heights Sunday.
  • Warriors vs Rangers Orange Gayview park Wodonga Sunday 
  • Warriors vs Rangers Gayview park Wodonga Sunday
  • If you are unavailable at any stage please let the club know as soon as possible as it makes planning much easier. 

Well that was a big one. Once again thanks for taking the time to read and please like and share it around everywhere! 
Bring on season 2021 for the North Eastern Baseball Association.
Go Rangers!

Best of Rounding Third by Line Drive the Rob Seymour Edition part 1 (2014-2016)

Posted on by LineDrive
Hello and welcome to the first in a series of special Rounding Third editions.
With baseball currently placed on hold for the foreseeable future it was time to delve through the mountains of words and editions of Rounding Third. This week’s edition is all about Rob “Butts” “Boston Rob” Seymour. Reading back through the first couple of Line Drives musings it shows that Butts was always going to be a great source of a story or two.  Now it may sound a little disjointed and a bit more than usual but this will hopefully give you a little insight into the history of what has been going on at Rangerland since 2014. Looking at it it might have to be a two part series! All the writing is taken word for word from the past editions in the archive of Line Drive.  Hope you enjoy this edition all about Butts.
Rob Seymour is the new man of of the tin! (2014)
     Local Wangaratta Rangers identity Rob “Butts” Seymour is now in charge of the tin. This has been decided as this week he purchased the tin under the blessing of past tin master Cam “Ideas Man” Scott. Seymour has already put his mark on the tin by placing a list of misdemeanors on the side of the can. The tripple play one is one definitely of interest. No one has been able to definitively say what is a tripple play? All we do know it is a $10 donation to the tin if anyone is able to achieve this. So look out Rangers faithful. Have your coins ready for this!
 Respect Boston Rob (2014) 
     New fine aficionado Rob “Butts” Seymour is not feeling the love right now. After taking over fines master he has copped a bit of flack for him trying to be “the man”. The penalties are pretty straight forward so you the ranger public should just pay up! The real question is did Butt’s pay his fine for going toward the plate with the catches gear on? Ask him Wednesday night down at the Ranger dome.
Butt’s get the credit he deserves. (2014)
     Local man of the tin Rob Seymour finally has got the credit he so richly believes he deserves. He has been crowned fines master of North East for this year’s carnival. He is pretty rapt with this accolade. Now it’s time to start collecting boss!
Rob Seymour mention number 15 for the season. (Line Drive cannot remember this one for sure) 
     Maybe it was mentions 14 and 15 in this edition but here is another mention. What was this mention about? Nothing really just felt like it had to be done. Happy with this one Rob?
 
That’s not to forget all the other volunteers over the weekend (2014)
     The Pres could not have done it without the work of fellow club members who gave up their time over the weekend to help rake diamonds, cook Barbecues and just generally make sure that all ran to plan. One of Wangaratta’s finest Rob ‘Buttsy’ Seymour informs Line Drive of a new set of catchers gear. What is so great about this? It is in new Rangers colours and will look sensational with our new uniforms. The photos of the new gear look amazing. Wonder if Rob is wearing it right now? Thanks to Ausport for the new gear and other goodies.
Seymour the hit machine (semifinal 2014)
     Wangaratta man of the tin, Rob ‘Butts’ Seymour, was on fire over the weekend. He was seeing the ball like it was a beach ball! It started quietly with just a single hit, then a double, then a laser shot of a home run. It hit a tree half way up, past the fence and ricocheted almost back to the mound. Total bases for the day? Too many to count. How many did Seymour run of them?…..about 5. Being the catcher as well, Butts had to put the gear on so the little master Tetsu Kamiyama ran the rest for him. Well done Tets for all your running. Butts appreciates it.
 
Ironman Rob Seymour (2015)
     Boston Rob “Buttsy” Seymour is ready and raring to go for the coming baseball year. He has been on the track all nights so far for masters and is shaping to be the x-factor for the Cods. For one thing I wish I could dive around at training as much as he does. More importantly bounce back up fro sliding around would be nice too. I am tipping big things for the Masters from Boston Rob.
 
Buttsy’s good luck charm (2015)
     Talking to another ranger favorite Matt “Colonel” Sanders about the good game of baseball over the weekend and he made reference to the fact that he is Rob “The Game” Seymour good luck charm. See each time he turned up to have a look last year, Buttsy hit a long ball. Colonel should continue to turn up more often!
 
Seymour Cods of steel (2015)
     During the second game Rob seymour took a bit of ribbing for his catching of the ball behind the plate. At one stage Nathan Pool asked the Tassy Tigers third base coach to roll it back to him as he was not going to catch it. So he obliged. Seymour’s response was to try and kick it back to him. That was not so successful either. He managed to stub it back in his general direction, much to the benchs howls of laughter. Not to worry Seymour will have his revenge at some stage this weekend.
Scott pays his dues (2105)
     Last week, good friend of Line Drive Cam “The Soak” Scott found out via twitter that his image was in the local Newspaper. On closer inspection it was actually a rather good picture of The Soak. He dutifully placed his five dollars to the tin as per the agreement for photos. Rob Seymour via Moose’s loss of glove decided to weigh in and say how he was not paying nor Azza for being in the background of the photo. In all honesty who noticed Butts in the background anyway?
Butt’s loses the crown (2015)
     During the week Brendon “Frenchy” French posted o picture of Rob “Butts” Seymour practicing his coin toss. He was supremely confident of defending his crown at this years event. Unfortunately this year’s field was red hot. There were some very professional coin tossers and Butts was unable to retain his crown. Never mind Butts, better keep practicing.
Rob Seymour is “The Game” (2015)
What is that old saying that you can’t keep a Rob Seymour down? Well maybe not exactly that phrase, but after a tough week last week against Wodonga Warriors, Buttsy was looking to put on a big one in the grand final. As mentioned last week, Buttsy is a big occasion player. Tough to get out and always attacks on the bases. None more so, than when he took home on a pass ball. Here is how it played out. Ball in the dirt past catcher. Catcher goes to get it, Buttsy sees his chance. Takes off for home. Pitcher coming in to cover the base looking for the tag, Buttsy dives head first into home plate spraying gravel everywhere. Call…SAFE! Buttsy gets up and then spits out half the diamond on the team mate Aaron “Azza” Parker. Face covered in dirt and the battle scars on his arm to prove to anyone he slid! He always has been and always will be, “The Game”.
“We are the navy….” what, Butts? (2016)
     Rob “Butts” Seymour is one very happy supporter at this present time.  The last few years have tested his mettle as a Carlton fan. However this year, he has shown his true blue colors. He is happy to show off his blues jersey after the game, which he wears under his first team Wangaratta Rangers jersey. Thing is though Butts, will you back them when it comes to your turn in the punters club? That will really test him then!
Now gotta mention his penchant for caps
Tip your hat to Butts (2016)
     Rob “Butts” Seymour is a man of many hats. He has worked very hard over the past few months perfecting the new look of the Wangaratta Rangers playing caps along with the North Eastern Baseball Association representative side. Finally he has put it all together and there are some ripping playing caps getting around. If you want one see Butts at training or on game day. He will let you know the price.
He also loves this award!

seymour run
Run Butts Thanks to Tania Pool for image

Seymour goes back to back on the fly! (2016)
     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 which 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.
Now that was from the first three years on writing. If you have made it right to the end of this then you have done really well. I mean we all love Rob but reading a whole edition dedicated to him is hard work isn’t it?
There is only one number 24 in the North East that’s for sure!
Stay safe and look forward to another walk through the writings of Line Drive next week
Go Rangers

Rounding Third By Line Drive March 10th 2020

Posted on by LineDrive
Hello and welcome to a March edition of Rounding Third. It has been a while since we last brought some news. Summer can be a busy time for all involved and this summer was no different. There has been a bit going on on and off the grounds around the Wangaratta Rangers. With the ground receiving some more sand, to a shed clean-out, to a wedding as well, much has been happening. The season is rapidly approaching and the club is looking to expand this coming season. More about that later.
 
Farmer gets his wife!
It has finally happened.  The Farmer has a wife! A huge congratulations and shout out goes to resident farmer and all round nice guy. Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo married the lovely Lisa “Miss Adelaide” Cambareri out at Whorouly. It was a big Ranger affair with both Mick and Kylie Wyatt playing their roles with a place in the bridal party and Lauren “Mrs Soak” Grenfell taking care of the floral arranging. Another Ranger got to play his role to a tea. Kelsey “Dropsey” Burder was the Flower man on the day and rolled down the aisle to some considerable effort on his electric tractor. If you need a flower person at your weeding hit up Kelsey he is more than happy to do it.

IMG_0574
Some of your best work there Kelsey!

Minifigs are seeing the world.
    Well two of them were. This year the Rangers have introduced little Lego Mini-figs for all players, committee members and supporters. These little guys and gals have been up to all sorts of shenanigans throughout the summer time. Two of note, Cam “the Soak” Scott and Lauren “Mrs Soak” Scott were seen all over the place in Europe. From opposite the opera house at dawn in Copenhagen, Denmark to down town Galway and even in a cable car in Hong Kong, they saw the world. Some of them do have some life like characteristics. One for sure in Rob “Butts” Seymour who’s facial expressions are close to real life.  Look for them in the coming months and if you are a part of the club, keep it somewhere in your possession at all times.

The English Border
Garden in Hong Kong

Cods update
    Yes Cods is approaching at a rapid rate and it has been a bit of a Topsy turvy off season. Looks like the blue algae has got to the Cod stocks this year, however they will still be heading down the Hume to Ballarat in the coming weeks. This year sees the return of some seasoned Cods including the likes of “tap n go” while the Porepunkah boys are more than excited to head away again. The draw looks quite good for the Cods with two Friday games, an early Saturday and a game mid Sunday morning. Line Drive will be back in attendance at Ballarat this year and will be bringing you all the action from on and off the diamond in his typical style. If you need more information check out Cods Master Baseball for all your Cods needs.
Puffer-fish is wide open.
Line Drive caught up with previous Puffer-fish winner Mick Brownlie out at the cricket over the past weekend and he was asking if the trophy is still going around. He was happy to know and hear those illustrious names are slowly starting add up on the trophy. This year is wide open as reigning puffer-fish Matty Shennan and past winner Ash “Steel” Panther Meyers  are both unavailable to defend or take back the trophy. Maybe it’s time for a new winner. Maybe Tony “Spinner” Smith can wind back the clock or maybe the newly wed Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo can come from the clouds and take the trophy. The most open race in years at Cods 2020. Good luck to all players.
 
The boys run the Beer Mile
Over the summertime a few of the B grade men turned their hand to running the Wangaratta beer mile. Now for those who are not familiar with a beer mile, the concept is to run 400 meters, stop have a drink and then run another lap and repeat the process for four laps. Now I will not name anyone but the four hardy souls were definitely up for the challenge. The running was not a problem but the oppressive condition’s and choice of hydration made it quite a difficult task. Still they soldiered on and got through the event. Rumor has it they needed a year under the belt and will be ready for a repeat campaign in season 2021.
Rangers Orange Black and Grey! 
This year after good playing numbers in 2019, the club has taken the plunge and nominated three teams in season 2020. This will ensure that all are getting a good go of Rangers Baseball in season 2020. The club are continuing to look for anyone who may be interested in playing this coming season. So if you feel like coming to have a look training will begin this week on Thursday at 5pm for juniors and 6pm for seniors. Location – Targoora Park Wangaratta. All are welcome.
 
Club are seeking a few more coaches
The Rangers are looking for anyone who might be interested in lending their expertise to help out across training and game days. Particularly for the A grade.  Due to a variety of circumstances the Rangers are looking for any interested parties to help out with the running of the teams in the coming season. If you feel this is you drop the club a line.
Congrats Lauren and Matt
Congratulations goes out to Lauren and Matt on the safe arrival of their baby boy Theodore. From all of us at Wangaratta, “Congratulations!” He has already taken his first game of baseball in. Great stuff.
Butts and his Culinary oddessy
Over the past weekend Rob “Butts” Seymour got to do something he has wanted to do for a long time. After a day enjoying the hospitality of the Yarrawonga-Mulwala Cricket Club, Buttsy was keen to go to the Oriental Pearl over at Club Mulwala. Butts has sampled the Chinese cuisine far and wine throughout the North East and beyond and he was ready for a good feed. Butts set off at a cracking pace with the food but then started to slow late on. Finally he tapped out full and happy. He was impressed by the range of buffet and the food on offer. Once he had eaten he wandered off into the night and was not seen again. We think Butts will be back for another go at the Oriental Pearl at Club Mulwala.
Now for the club stuff
  • Training from 5pm for juniors Thursday 6pm Seniors. All are welcome
  • Need to pay your registration? Click on the link on http://www.wangarattabaseball.com click on members login to pay your registration or find Wangaratta rangers on teamapp
  • Season to begin Sunday 19th of April. Draw will be posted online soon.
  • Cods Ballarat Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd of March
  • Check us out on all the socials we are all over them!
It has been a while but the season is coming rapidly. Shaping aup to be another great season of baseball in Cods and the North east.
till next time
Go Cods
and Go Rangers