Chance to get runs on board

By Casey Neill
UPWEY Ferntree Gully Baseball Club is inviting kids of all ages and abilities to give the sport a go.
The club will run an Aussie T-Ball program each Friday night for 10 weeks starting on 3 February.
The safe, fun introduction to baseball will teach children the fundamentals of throwing, catching, hitting and team play, and is inclusive of kids with disabilities.
Come and try days are on from 6pm to 7.30pm on Friday 27 January and 10am to 11.30am on Sunday 29 January at Upwey Ferntree Gully Baseball Club, Kings Park, Willow Road, Upper Ferntree Gully.
Club secretary Denis Dalzotto said baseball participation dwindled with the original Australian Baseball League’s demise in the 1990s, but people were returning to the sport following its return with a new format in 2010.
“It’s about getting kids back out there,” Dalzotto said.
He said they’d learn hand eye co-ordination, didn’t need to be ‘super fit’, and would receive help to improve their skills no matter what their ability.
Once kids learn the basics in T-Ball, baseball sides are open to them from under-12s.
“There’s nothing to stop them from going further,” Dalzotto said.
Three players from the club have gone on to play major league baseball in America – Brad Harman, Justin Huber and Micheal Nakamura.
“There’s a great pathway for them,” Dalzotto said.
Aussie T-Ball fees are $80, and include a baseball pack with glove, club cap, baseball, sweat band, Aussie T-Ball pop-up tent shelter, Aussie T-Ball binoculars and drawstring bag. A club uniform will also be provided to each registered child. Concession and health care card holders are eligible for a 25 per cent discount.
Call Denis Dalzotto on 0418 387 694 or Chris Harman on 0427 715 975, or email secretary@ upweyftg baseball.com for more information.