Category: Wangaratta

Rounding Third By Line Drive. Cods Masters edition 2025.

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to the 2025 edition of Cods Capers. The Cods tested their baseball stamina in the Victorian Masters baseball Championships, which was held from 37th to the 30th of March 2025 in Ballarat. This year the Cods were in the 35B division. It was another solid performance from the Cods over their four games. Here are their results….

Thursday 27th March

Cods 11 defeated Baulking Dead 2

Friday 28th March

Cods 2 lost to Bald Eagles 9

Cods 7 defeated Rebels 4

Saturday 29th of March

Bendigo Dragons 9 defeated Cods 4

So after the four games played, the Cods finished third with a record of two wins and two losses, 24 runs for and 24 against. What amazing symmetry by all. A massive thank you needs to go out to all the volunteers and organisers of the tournament. It was the biggest one yet and from this scribes point of view, it was once again expertly organised and run. To all the Cods who made it at some stage over the three days for laughs and baseball, thank you again. One is sure that it will be done again in 2026.

Now enough about the baseball content,  Line Drive knows many of you are here to hear about what the characters of the Cods have been up to on, and off, the diamond. There is a lot to write about, so settle in and enjoy the read.

Scootle Butts shenanigans

The Cods were back again in Ballarat on Thursday, and already the boys have made themselves known to the establishments and the pavements of Ballarat.

There are many ways to navigate the streets of Ballarat. Taxis  buses, Uber and the old Cods favourite…. Scooters. Those long time readers of the Cod Capers, would remember one Brendan, “Camma” Cameron had a bit of a fall from a scooter, with some bark taken off his face around 5 years ago. One would think we would have learnt our lesson. Enter Rob, “Duke Kaboom” Seymour. On the way to get a late night snack with Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burder and Brad, “Undies” Murdoch, Duke took it upon himself to commentate his ride on Snap Chat, riding a scooter down the street. Unknowingly documenting his ride with the phrases, “I’m scared! I’m scared!” Duke then decided to go stuntman mode by attempting to ride the scooter one handed while recording with the other. Unwittingly, Duke recorded his demise into the pavement.

4 metres Duke?

Not to outdone, Duke jumped to his feet and made sure he sent the video to at least three or four different groups. For many who were not even in Ballarat yet, waking up Friday morning to watch this video of some of Duke’s best work was surprising and concerning. But Duke was ok, a little bark off his face wasn’t going to stop him! When Line Drive caught up with our favourite stuntman on Friday night, you wouldn’t have guessed that he had not stuck the landing. Good to see the helmet did its job Duke.

Safari Friday night

Line Drive rolled into town on Friday night and was greeted with the sight of two Cods who decided to go on a safari. Dropsy Burder and Matt, “Bulldog” Carmody. The ivory polyester was resplendent and both Bulldog and Dropsy were very happy with their work. Dropsy did say a bit later on in the evening it was not the best outfit to wear while dancing and it was not the most breathable. The price you pay to look good Kelsey.

Tetsu makes a funny. Hot baseball Jonker didn’t get it

Testsu, “BOG” Kamiyama has had a big week. Spies tell me that he had an absolute blinder for Wodonga Softball Wednesday night. So one would think he would carry that form into Thursday’s game for Cods. How wrong Cods were! The very first play of the game The “BOG” decided that the ball was too small and very hard to field booting the first play of Cods 2025. However he was fast with his mouth to make up for it on during Friday’s win against the Rebels. Jason, “Sunscreen” Jonker, had a rough outing and after a long ball which many say was one of the biggest home runs hit against Cods in years, Tetsu fumbled the ball back to Jonker. “The ball is too hot still. Very hard to handle!” Unfortunately Sunscreen didn’t get the reference. Mind you, everyone else there did.

Kelsey Dropsy. Warfe blinders

There were tales of many a play throughout the three days of baseball. Many Cods were quick to alert Line Drive to two differing styles of catch. It ridiculous that one was actually caught, and the other was absurd with how they caught it.

During game two on Friday v the Rebels, Sean, “The Doc” Warfe decided to do his best superman impression while playing centre field. The ball was drilled to the left centre alley where The Doc proceeded to track it and make an outrageous dive to make the catch 5m from the home run fence. Both sides were in awe of what they just witnessed.

Now here is the difference in two plays. Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burder was at it again. This time he was playing 3rd base, where he has the knack of making the routine look extremely difficult. Here’s the play. Hitter pops the ball up towards Dropsy at 3rd base. All he has to do is take 3 to 4 steps to get there and catch it. However, Kelsey completely misread it and somehow catches the ball back behind his head in a most contorted manner. Again the Cods were in amazement that somehow Dropsy had been able make an easy play so difficult. One remarked that one play was top shelf, while Dropsy’s attempt looked like it had come from a play from Temu. Never change Kelsey.

Side note, it has been the fifth year in a row that Dropsy has knocked over Rob Seymour’s drink at some stage over the weekend.

Who took the last lamb cutlet? Mixed grill Murdoch and Pooly.

The Cods thought it would be a good idea to have a spot of lunch at a different place on the way to Saturdays’ game, and it was lamented by many that the good old mixed grill had gone by the wayside on many pub menu. Enter the Queens Head Ballarat! A classic mixed grill with lamb cutlets. King Cod Nathan, “FOMO” Pool, was quick to order followed by Brad, “Undies” Murdoch. However, it was discovered that the cutlets are off the mixed grill menu. One would think, that without the lamb cutlets, should drop the price by ten dollars. However it did not. Both men tucked into the impressive mixed grill with Pool polishing it all off. Undies was struggling. Enter Rob, “Duke Kaboom” Seymour, who swopped in and helped out Undies. What a guy!

Where are you Cods?

There was a bit of a miscommunication on Saturday afternoon. Half of the Cods went for a catch up right next door to the accommodation while the other four decided to venture yonder. When it came time to catch up the five Cods went to where they thought the others were, while they thought to come back to where the five were. Cue the music. Nathan, “FOMO” Pool, then made veiled threats against the rogue five Cods who were having a sophisticated evening at another venue. “Big fines” was the threat. The rogue five all agreed that was all good, and it was an enjoyable evening none-the-less.

Griff goes missing again

Daniel “The Griff” Griffin is beginning to make a habit of going missing. After playing the first three games of the weekend, Griff confided to Cam “The Soak” Scott that he would not be making an appearance at Saturday’s game. He was off to play Marvel “Crisis Protocol” for the day. Now, over the years we have had Cods not play due to weddings, birthdays, being ill and heck even for playing the pokies, but this was a first and one of the most random reasons for not playing. When Chief Cods Nathan, “FOMO” Pool heard, his face was one of shock and surprise. The last time Griff was sighted was going off up over the hill to his secret handshake society. Wonder how it all went?

Welcome back Mr Whiteman

It was great to see Shaun, “Pronger” Whiteman return to the Cods fold. Over the weekend Pronger was thereabouts giving out advice on a few occasions at others misfortune.  On Saturday against the Bendigo Dragons, things took an turn. Pronger was tasked with the difficult job playing left field with day three pitching specialist Ash, “The Game” Meyers. Now from the first few plays, it looked like it was going to be a busy day in left field. The first couple went through the cones for two bases, the next, straight to our man Pronger. The pick up no problem, the throw in to his great mate Fomo Pool, basically spiked into the ground and reached Fomo rolling along it. This had the Cods infield in stiches, or was it the mixed Grill that Nathan had eaten that had him doubling over in pain? Who knows!

When you are having an unlucky day, the ball tends to follow you and this continued for Pronger. With his parents looking on, Pronger went for a flyball, turned the wrong way stumbled, composed himself and turned the wrong way again to drop the flyball. The play had a start, a middle and an ending. It was a sight to behold. From there, a change was made and our man of the moment wandered over to centre field. The ball followed him over there, but this time it was a home run. That was it for Whiteman, he was happy to sit on the bench to see the game out. In all, the Cods are absolutely wrapped to have him back out there.

Now for the short of it from Cods 2025

  • Brendon, “Frenchy” French’s favourite number? Is it the number 6 or the number 7, or number eight ah ah ahhhhhhhhhhhhh (Enter the Count from Sesame Street)
  • Have a great trip Damon “Barks” Barker. Barks drove down for the day on Thursday, goes 3 for 3 and heads home before going straight to the airport to jump on a plane to Europe. Cods commitment right there.
  • Fair trade? Cods checking out Friday night Jason Jonker, Tetsu Kamiyama, Michael “Bill” Clear. Cods checking in….Cam “The Soak” Scott!
  • Calling a fines meeting at 10:30pm? Maybe the fine was paying to get into the venue in the first place!
  • Wandering Cods. Cods were seen at many a different venue. But not all in the one place at once. The way the Cods roll.
  • What is the adequate number of spas one can have in a day? Also, how long does it take to fill? Enough time to go out for breakfast? Ask Bulldog for an idea.
  • New shirts for next year Cods? Watch this space. The new hats are good too. Well done to Duke Kaboom.
  • Meyers goes yard. One of the longest home runs hit on Diamond 6 at the footy ground ever seen. 450ft Ash?
  • Want another Guinness Doc? Peruzzo maybe? Maybe a bottle of Vino is more our style.
  • Pufferfish 2025? Watch this space……………………..
  • Well done to all players, volunteers, vendors, and anyone who assisted in the running of their teams compete in the 2025 Masters Baseball. The biggest yet.
  • Line Drive only had a limited time there this year, but look for him to return for the whole event again in 2026.

Cods 2025 were-

Nathan Pool

Rob Seymour

Brendon French

Damon Barker

Ash Meyers

Matt Carmody

Steve Peruzzo

Kelsey Burder

Daniel Griffin

Tetsu Kamiyama

Jason Jonker

Michael Clear

Shaun Whiteman

Sean Warfe

Cam Scott

Line Drive is sure not everything has been covered, but if you are still reading now you are always in the for long haul. Thank you to all out there who share read and enjoy.

Go Cods.

Rounding Third By Line Drive March 2025

Posted on by LineDrive

It’s a new year, a new season, and that means Rounding Third returns for its 12th year in 2025.

Hello, and welcome to Rounding Third for year 2025. Line Drive is back to look into the stories and characters that make up the largest baseball club in the North Eastern Baseball Association. The Wangaratta Rangers.

Rounding Third has always been at places online, and easy to find. This will continue to be the case. However, those with a short 45 second attention span (or 200 words) have probably already given up reading (Mikayla Jonker, just wondering if you are sticking with it?)

However for the rest of you, Line Drive welcomes you back and hope you are all well.

It has been a while, and to be honest Line Drive has certainly been soaking up the sun around the North East, amongst other pursuits, but now his mind has turned to what has been going on around the Wangaratta Rangers baseball community. One thing is for sure, what he does not know, he will certainly make it up and make it sound pretty plausible!

Let’s get to it.

New website.

The time had come, all things Wangaratta Rangers needed a refresh. It required a new spin on things! A new spin on the story of Wangaratta. The new and improved Wangaratta Rangers website is now live and taking hits. Candice Jones has spent a considerable amount of time talking to members of the club, getting the right feel and spin to propel the club forward. So, it’s time to update your bookmarks (Line Drive readers generally do bookmarks) and checkout Wangarattarangers.com

Cod season 2025

Cod season is only a mere a week away, and the King Cod, Nathan Pool has been busy once again making sure there are enough of his codlings migrating downstream to Ballarat over the March 29th weekend. It will be a bit of a different Cods line-up in 2025 but there will be some heavy hitting veterans appearing once more. It was declared last week to Line Drive that Ash,”The Game” Meyers is looking for puffer-fish award number four. Line Drive is aware that Meyers has put in some pre-season work and is itching to play.

There are a few new Cods swimming down south in 2025. Line Drive has been looking at the list and hearing the chat around the water cooler that Michael, “Bill” Clear is debuting this year. When asked about his preparation, Bill was happy with the schedule. He plans to play for two days then have a 35hr break for umpiring duties back on the border, then to come back to Ballarat.                                                                                                                                                                   For the Cods in the know, only one player in 12 years has gone back to the border and returned to the masters competition. This individual did go on to win the puffer-fish that year. Could it be done again?

Barks doesn’t miss

It has come to the attention of the Cods in the know, that since the inception of Cods, only two players have never missed a tournament. One being the Big Cod Nathan, “FOMO” Pool and the other, Porepunkah’s Damon, “Barks” Barker. It was looking like Cod trip 2025 was going to be the first one that Barks would be missing with other adventures planned. However, Barks had different ideas on this one and will be suiting up for at least one game on Thursday afternoon, keeping his streak intact before flying out to Europe. For that effort,  this deserves a vote in the Puffer-fish award. Safe travels Barks.

The Disco falls silent

Over the past month or so, Line Drive was informed that Shaun, “Old School” O’Neil, is having a sabbatical year in 2025. This has caused a bit of a stir in the office of Rounding Third due to Old School being a rich source of content over the years of Rounding Third. It looks like others are going to have to fill the big concrete holes left behind by number 2. Enjoy your season off Old School. You will be missed by this Ranger.

Trip away footy tipping

There is a little pocket of the Rangers playing and support cohort who have been on many an end of season trip away over the years. There have been many reports about masters weekend too. This year, the trip crew are going back to basics and looking for ways to raise revenue. One way that cohort decided raise a bit of cash, was to enter the footy tipping at a local establishment. The real test is that each member of the trip will be asked to tip a round.     Kelsey, “Dropsy” Burder offered to tip the last round. Line Drive will let everyone know when they will be tipping, so don’t worry! 

Training returns to Wednesday

It has been warm in the north east for the first three weeks of Rangers training. This has not stopped the numbers from being impressive. Coach Owen, “Sits at the big table” Godenzi, has been impressed with the attitude and the willingness of everyone to be involved and learning how to improve. So if you are yet to attend, senior training is from 6pm on-wards on Wednesdays. You might even sight Line Drive there too.

Taylor terrorising twos attacks

Dancing man John, “Johnno” Taylor, has had a very good season of cricket with the Yarrawonga-Mulwala Cricket Club. On more than one occasion, Taylor has dug the Yarrawonga-Mulwala Lakers A reserve side out of a hole with some lusty striking. One wonders if Taylor will be gracing the diamonds of the north east this winter with similar lusty hitting. One could only wonder.

Rangers Bringing Light to the Dark

Big thanks go to Steve and Lisa Peruzzo, Mick and Taylah Wyatt, Jamie and Gus King and Frenchy for helping out at the Project 365 concert at Avian Park on February 22nd. They ran the merchandise stand throughout the night in some very warm conditions, and in true Ranger style, helped put a very important message out into the community. The crew at Project 365 loved having the Rangers involved. Remember, ‘it’s ok to not be ok’ You can get some help. Talk about your feelings…. Lifeline.org.au 13 11 14

A big thank you for all your efforts

Now onto the club stuff

Congratulations to Kate and Azza Parker on the arrival of their son Nelson. Nice work, what a ripper!! It’ll be great to see young Nelson join his brother Patty on the diamonds in the coming years!

Need to pay your registration? Head through the club website and click through to winter registration. Process is quick and easy. See the club if having difficulties….

Anyone seen Scott “Jenko” Jenkins? One heard he may be making a comeback in season 2025.

Good luck to Cods Masters who head to Ballarat for the weekend. Have fun and stay safe,

Well that’s enough from me. Try and stay cool and hydrated in the heat (if it is warm where you are reading this) and speak to you soon…….

Go Rangers

And Go Cods!

Rounding Third by Line Drive August 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soaks rambling dribble returns

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

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

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

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

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

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

Peruzzo and his new veneers.

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

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

Murdoch’s Moustache masterclass

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

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

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

Dropsy’s new trick

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

Always be Dropsy!

Mei see you around!

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

KK. The new queen of all things Rangers

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

What’s my name again?

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

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

Presentation time.

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

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

Happy trails Ryan Kenny

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

Anyone seen Old School?

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

Now onto the club stuff

Finals this weekend Sunday at Targoora Park. Murdoch road Wangaratta

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

Training Wednesday from 6pm for Seniors

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

C grade Rangers play Wodonga.

B grade  Rangers play Wodonga.

A grade Rangers Black play Bears Gold

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

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

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

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

Go Rangers.

Rounding Third By Line Drive April 2024

Posted on by LineDrive

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

Azza ties the knot

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

Cods 2024

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

Driving the Hume.

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

Juniors ready to go

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

New players a plenty

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

Hitting the Gym

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

Trivia time

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

Wangaratta Rangers Trivia April 19th 2024

Din Dins A doo dah

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

Doing the groundwork.

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

Now onto the club stuff

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

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

Have a good week and…..

Go Rangers!

Rounding Third By Line Drive July 2023

Posted on by LineDrive

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

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

Under 15’s Rangers 12 defeated Wodonga Warriors 6

C Grade Rangers 6 lost to Wodonga Warriors 11

B Grade Rangers Grey 15 defeated Benalla Bandits 8

B Grade Rangers Orange 19 defeated Wodonga Warriors 3

A Grade Rangers 15 defeated Wodonga Warriors 4

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

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

North East juniors represent.

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

With thanks to Field of View sports photography

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

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

Get well Keith Quinn

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

Tetsu did what?????

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

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

Lucky ticket is a week away

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

Kelsey OMG!

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

Look up! Photo courtesy of Lauren Grenfell

The Soak a threat on the base paths

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

Sunday dinner at the Town and Country

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

The Club is the sum of its members

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

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

Now onto the club stuff

Rangers welcome Porepunkah Panthers Sunday Targoora Park

Rangers Orange vs Benalla at Benalla.

Lucky Ticket July 29th

After home games dinner at Old Town and Country Tavern.

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

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

Till next time.

Go Rangers

Rounding Third by Line Drive June 2023

Posted on by LineDrive

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

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

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

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

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

Results from Sunday June 19th

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

Under 12’s

Rangers 18 defeated Porepunkah 17

Under 15’s

Rangers 7 defeated Porepunkah 2

C grade

Porepunkah 10 defeated Rangers 5

B grade

Rangers Orange 20 defeated Porepunkah 3

Rangers Grey Washout

A Grade

Rangers 16 defeated Porepunkah 1

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

Winter has arrived up the Ovens Valley.

It’s been a while Nambrok.

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

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

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

Ross Johnson light it up!!!!

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

CammaaaaaH

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

The upgrades continue at the Ranch

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

North East finish fourth.

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

The tin is a rattling.

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

Dinners have returned

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

Clubs are always better when you get involved!

Who is Line Drive

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

Now to the club stuff

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

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

Go Rangers

Rounding Third By Line Drive May 2023

Posted on by LineDrive

Hello and welcome to another installment of Rounding Third.

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

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

Mixed results from Rangers.

Under 12’s – Rangers 9 defeated by Bears 21

Under 15’s – Rangers 15 defeated Bears 2

C grade- Rangers 6 defeated by Warriors 12

B Grade- Rangers Orange 4 defeated by Bears 24

Rangers Grey- 21 defeated Warriors 11

A Grade – Rangers 16 defeated Warriors 4

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

More to come about that later.

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

O’Neil is slowly adjusting

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

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

Cods Masters Baseball Pufferfish 2023

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

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

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

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

Ossie has one very hot Bat

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

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

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

Heath likes the hot corner

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

JT in the house

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

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

Looking for more players

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

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

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

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

Podcasts, media shows but Line Drive is still here.

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

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

Now onto the club stuff

Please make sure your fees are paid as soon as possible

Lucky Ticket 29th July See the club for your Ticket

Training Juniors 5pm, Seniors 6pm Wednesday

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

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

Go Rangers.

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