2012 Annual Report - Softball Australia

ANNUAL Report2012DIVERSITY COMMUNITY FUN EXCELLENCE ENGAGEMENT TEAMWORK

Purpose• be the dynamic and innovative leader of Softball in Australia• engage, support and inform all softball stakeholders• raise the profile and standing of and participation in softball• support and deliver quality competitive and recreational softball opportunities locally, nationallyand internationally.VisionWe will be the world’s number one Softball nation, providing exciting competitive andrecreational opportunities to a rapidly expanding and diverse membership and to communitiesacross Australia.Level 1, Suite 2, 273 Wellington Street, Collingwood VIC 3066T 03 9417 0022www.softball.org.auSoftball Australia Ltd ACN 092 181 318

ContentsHighlights ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 1Chairman’s Report .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3Acting CEO’s Report ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 5Message from the Australian Sports Commission ................................................................................................................................................ 10Softball Australia’s Strategic Plan ................................................................................................................................................................................... 11Organisational Structure ................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14Our Committees ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 15High Performance ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 17Membership ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 21Member Recognition ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27Coaching.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 38Scoring..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 40Umpiring .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 45Technical Delegates ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 53Community Participation ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 54Softball Community Coaching Program .................................................................................................................................................................... 58Softball Batter Up .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 60CRM Project Update .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 63Teams ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 64International Results .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 72Australian Championship Results ................................................................................................................................................................................. 76Other national results ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 83Softball Australia Life Members ................................................................................................................................................................................... 85Softball Australia Hall of Fame inductees ................................................................................................................................................................ 85ISF Hall of Fame inductees .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 88Member States ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 89Partners and sponsors ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 90Glossary ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 92John Reid Shield image courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012

HighlightsHighlightsISF Oceania Men’s QualifierIn the lead up to the 2013 ISF XIII Men’s World Championship in New Zealand, 1-10 March, the ISF Oceania Men’sQualifier was held at Hawker International Softball Centre, ACT in December 2011. The Aussie Steelers qualified for theWorld Championships, finishing the Series undefeated. Samoa and Papua New Guinea participated in the Qualifier, withSamoa also qualifying for the World Championship.Strike Out Breast CancerDuring the U19 Women’s Championship (Perth) and the U17 Girls Championship (Hobart), Softball Australia, Softball WAand Softball Tasmania joined forces on the Strike Out Breast Cancer campaign to raise awareness for the NationalBreast Cancer Foundation. A total of $8,800 was raised for the Foundation.Men’s Argentina TourIn September 2011, the Aussie Colts travelled to Parana, Argentina for the 2012 ISF IX Junior Men's World Championship.The tour gave the Aussie Colts a chance to visit and familiarise themselves with the venue and region where they wouldbe returning for the 2012 ISF IX Junior Men’s World Championship in November 2012. The Aussie Colts will be looking towin their fifth consecutive title.The Aussie Steelers Squad also travelled to Argentina, providing the younger members with an opportunity toexperience international competition.NSW FirestarsIt was a clean sweep for the NSW Firestars, winning the Gilley’s Shield, Edebone-Weber Shield and McLaughlin Cup inthe Open Women’s Championships. Congratulations to NSW Firestars for being the first team to achieve this result.New Softball Australia Award – Player of the Grand FinalAfter reviewing the Softball Australia Awards process in 2010/11, a Player of the Grand Final Award for each of ournational events was introduced.Australian U19 Men’s Squad – Aussie ColtsAs part of the preparation for the 2012 ISF IX Junior Men’s World Championship to be held in Argentina from 1-10November 2012, the squad participated in the John Reid Shield, Australian Open Men’s Championship in February,picking up wins against Victoria and New South Wales.New association and club websiteFollowing a review of the website and feedback from users, the ‘new look’ association and club website was released inDecember 2011. The new format provides administrators with a more user-friendly, flexible environment which can betailored to suit association and club requirements, while still offering generic content provided and maintained bySoftball Australia.New branding for National TeamsIn May, the new team logos for our national teams were unveiled. The graphic components are unique to each team.They have their own style and energy and represent the values of each national team with a refinement of existingshapes (Aussie Steelers and Aussie Colts) and the creation of new logos (Aussie Spirit and Aussie Pride).SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 1

HighlightsTransitionsAussie Steeler, Josh Davison, announced his retirement from international competition.AchievementsDarryl Clout, former President of Softball Australia, was recognised as a Softball Australia Life Member and Bob Harrow,Australian Open Men's Head Coach, Paul Maisey and Peta Edebone (former players) were inducted into the ISF Hall ofFame.Two of our umpires were appointed to the final of the 2011 ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championships gold medalgame: Helen Strauss (Qld) was appointed the plate and Yvonne Kahler (Qld) was appointed second base.Helen is the first Australian umpire to plate umpire a World Championships gold medal match. She is also the firstperson to represent her country as a player and an umpire. Congratulations Helen!Bob Harrow receiving his ISF Hall of Fame plaque from Darryl CloutImage courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 2

Chairman’s ReportChairman’s ReportThe highlight of the year was our national teams' performances on the internationalstage. Congratulations to Kere Johanson and the Australian Open Women’s Team,Aussie Spirit, on finishing 3 rd and 4 th respectively at the Canadian Open InternationalWomen’s Fastpitch and the World Cup of Softball VI in the USA. Supported by a 4 thplace from the Australian U19 Women’s Team, Aussie Pride, in the IX ISF JuniorWomen’s World Championships in South Africa, it makes future successes on the worldstage look very promising for our women's program. Australia maintains its place as theWorld’s Number 1 Softball nation, due to the success of the Australia Open Men’sTeam, Aussie Steelers and the Australian U19 Men’s Team, Aussie Colts. Withinternational achievements in mind, we also recognise three outstanding individualcontributors, Bob Harrow, Peta Edebone and Paul Maisey, who were inducted into theISF Hall of Fame for their outstanding performances in the elite realms of Softball.Operationally, the past year for Softball Australia has been challenging. We saw the resignation of our CEO, Sue Noble,after 3½ years of service to Softball Australia, the departure of Julie Anderson, Manager High Performance Pathways andMatt Cairns, Business Development Manager. There was also the resignation of two Board members, Ashley Klein andVicki Lahey. We thank them for their contribution.Financially also, Softball Australia has experienced its most demanding year. Two world championships to attend in theone year along with staff changes resulted in a significant financial loss. While a sizeable operating loss was budgeteddue to the timing of the new world championship calendar, the magnitude was greater than anticipated due to manyunforseen events and circumstances faced. Having now put all of these issues behind us, we can look forward to abrighter future for Softball as we continue to address the many legacies, and restructure the organisation for improvedoutputs whilst aligning to stakeholders’ needs and minimising operational costs.The Governance Committee has met bi-monthly over the past 12 months to review Softball Australia’s policies,guidelines and regulations, as well as confer on governance matters raised by the Softball Australia Board. This year hasbeen particularly productive for this Committee with the revision of administrative and governance policies and thereview of existing documents. All documents were made available as a resource tool for use and adoption by SoftballAustralia and Member States. By the conclusion of 2012 we anticipate the completion of a revised eCommunicationsPolicy and Risk Management Policy and operating documents will also be reviewed. A refined Membership Policy willbe developed to reflect the recommendations of the comprehensive membership review, including new membershipcategories. Work continues to align Member States Constitutions, purposes and objectives with Softball Australia. Inaddition, the Softball Australia Ambassador program continues to provide support for Member State Boards as requiredand a direct line of communication between a Softball Australia Director and State President.Internationally, significant steps have been made for the inclusion of women's Softball back onto the Olympic Gamesprogram. At the XXV World Congress in 2011, the ISF committed to a strategy of a joint bid with Baseball in an attemptto regain admission into the 2020 Olympics. The position of the Softball Australia Board and other ISF members,supported by feedback received from IOC members, was that Softball had an improved chance of inclusion with a jointbid with Baseball, rather than standing alone. The ISF Congress overwhelmingly voted to pursue this strategy and aWorking Party was established to progress this direction.Albeit slowly, the framework is being prepared for a joint legal identity internationally and targeted strategy developedfor presentation and formal consideration at a World Softball Special Congress scheduled for October 2013. Softball,together in a joint bid with Baseball, is one of seven sports bidding for inclusion in the 2020 Olympics, the decision toSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 3

Chairman’s Reportbe made at the 2013 IOC Session scheduled for September in Buenos Aires. Other sports bidding are Climbing, Karate,Roller Sports, Squash, Wakeboard and Wushu. While there is never any certainty, we remain quietly confident that ourjoint proposal is an enhanced and attractive proposition for Olympic Games inclusion if that is the direction taken bythe ISF at Congress.RecognitionI would like to acknowledge the contribution and achievements of the volunteers who support our sport and make itpossible for many Australians to participate, day in and day out. As in most sports, the majority of recognition isbestowed upon front-line personnel and the elite. Whilst their contribution is certainly noteworthy and deserved, it isoften the volunteers behind the scenes who make it all possible. There is a plethora of coaches, scorers, umpires,grounds-personnel, administrators, committees, parents and supporters who donate huge amounts of their personaltime to make this sport possible. These volunteers contribute enormous amounts of work-time freely to enable theregistered players to participate in officially organised and recognised Softball.I also take this opportunity to thank the Softball Australia Directors, our Member State Boards, and association and clubcommittees for giving their time freely to support the running and development of our sport. Being a volunteeradministrator in sport can be a thankless task, attracting as it does the brunt of criticism for decisions made for theoverall good of Softball, rather than parochial interests.Following the departure of our CEO in June 2012, Chet Gray was appointed Acting CEO. A restructure of all SoftballAustralia operations was immediately conducted with a view to streamline operations and reduce expenditure, whilemaintaining focus on resourcing key deliverables. As a result, a number of portfolios were amalgamated to develop anew operations team.We thank Chet for the job he has done during this period and to the Softball Australia staff who have collectivelysupported and contributed to achieving these endeavours, and now, we look forward to the New Year with renewedvigour and enthusiasm. The recruitment process for the CEO position will be contemplated early in 2013.Thank you also to the remaining Softball Australia Board members for their persistence and resilience for not onlyaddressing the many challenges we faced, but remaining unified and steadfast in our conviction of creating a better 'goforward position' for the sport. Board numbers remained at a minimum during this period and we are now in theprocess of recruiting and increasing our numbers back to full complement for customary operating levels.Finally, we would like to thank our Principal Partner, the Australian Sports Commission who supported Softball Australiaduring this difficult period. Without their ongoing support and offered assistance we would have struggled to endurethis period. Softball Australia appreciates the support of the ASC as we look to the future.Dennis CullenChairmanKarina Cannon (NSW) with the Gilley’s ShieldImage courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 4

Acting CEO’s ReportActing CEO’s ReportOur five year strategic plan has provided the sport with a foundation for sustained growth and reform.The past 12 months has seen a number of changes instaff and structure at Softball Australia. Sue Noble(CEO), Julie Anderson (Manager High PerformancePathways), Matt Cairns (Manager Membership andBusiness Development), Lauren Boland (Membershipand Business Development Coordinator), Phil Hazlett(Schools & Club Development Coordinator), Nina Xu(Finance Coordinator) and Raelene Jeffrey (NationalCommunity Coach) departed Softball Australia seekingnew challenges.In particular, I would like to acknowledge Sue Noble’scontribution to Softball Australia over the past 3½years. Development of a five year Strategic Plan,improving the governance structures, quality assurance,instigating marketing, membership and event researchand review remain a strong legacy of Sue’s tenure withSoftball Australia. Sue’s contribution has enhanced thestrategic direction and governance standards of theorganisation.Following Sue’s departure, I stepped into the positionof Acting CEO. The Softball Australia Board and staffhave been very supportive during this time oftransition.The departure of several key staff members resulted innew appointments. We welcomed Joanne Paez(Softball Batter Up Coordinator), Trisha Bennett(National Community Coach Coordinator) and HariPrasad (Financial Coordinator) and the return of KylieBloodworth (Membership and Marketing Coordinator)and we look forward to their contribution.In February, Jenny Cassidy was appointed as the ActingManager High Performance Pathways to oversee theHigh Performance area until a full review of theprogram has been completed in early 2013.Internal staff restructuring was undertaken to addressadministrative and operational requirements.In October 2011, the Softball Australia office relocatedfrom Hawthorn to Collingwood. The purpose was toreduce costs and improve the office layout andfunctionality.During 2011-12, our finances recorded a deficit, due to anumber of unforeseen circumstances.Recognition of successA highlight in 2011 was the induction of Bob Harrow,Paul Maisey and Peta Edebone into the ISF Hall ofFame. Their contribution and achievements on and offthe Softball diamond have now been recognised at thehighest level. Softball Australia congratulates theseworthy individuals on such an outstandingachievement.In December, the Australian U19 Women’s Team, AussiePride, coached by Paula McGovern (Vic), competed inthe ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championship inCape Town, South Africa. The Team finished 4 th , goingdown to Chinese Taipei 3-2 in a thrilling encounter inthe bronze medal game.The Australian Open Women’s Team, Aussie Spirit,competed in the Canadian Open InternationalWomen’s Fastpitch tournament where they finished in3 rd place. The Team then moved on to Oklahoma (USA)for the World Cup of Softball VI where they finished in4 th place.The Australian Open Men’s Team, Aussie Steelers andthe Australian U19 Men’s Team, Aussie Colts, travelledto Parana, Argentina. The Aussie Colts competed in theIV International Men’s Softball Tournament, while theAussie Steelers competed in a separate tournament.Both teams finished 1 st in their divisions. This eventprovided our Aussie Colts with valuable experience inthe lead up to the ISF IX Junior Men’s WorldChampionship to be held in Parana in November 2012.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 5

Acting CEO’s ReportCongratulations to the NSW Firestars for taking outboth the Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shieldwith a nail-biting finish against the ACT Diamonds 2-1.This is the first time a team has won both the Gilley’sShield and the Edebone-Weber Shield in the same year.ACT retained the John Reid Shield (Open Men) whileNSW successfully defended the Elinor McKenzie Shield(U19 Women) making it six in a row. Qld was this year’swinners of the Nox Bailey Shield (U19 Men). NSWcontinued their domination in the junior age groupswinning both the Esther Deason (U17 Girls) and ArthurAllsopp Shields (U17 Boys). Congratulations to allparticipants!Congratulations to Helen Strauss (Qld), the firstAustralian umpire at an ISF World Championship to beappointed as the plate umpire for a gold medal game.Helen is also the first Australian to represent hercountry as a national player and umpire at an ISF WorldChampionship. Congratulations also to Yvonne Kahler(Qld) who was appointed second base umpire in theChampionship final.Capacity buildingA significant decline in membership was again recordedin 2011-12. To address this major issue, workcommenced with the establishment of theMembership Review Project Team. The purpose of theProject Team is to address the decline in participationand membership by developing a more inclusivemembership model. Through extensive consultation,the Project Team identified individual and institutional(associate) membership categories which couldrealistically be implemented.Some of the key achievements of the Project Team inthe past 12 months were:• development of individual and associatemembership categories• development of a new membership model to bepresented to the Member States• preparation of Memorandums of Understanding(MOUs) with key national partners – the AustralianDefence Force, Special Olympics Australia, SchoolSports Australia and Australian University Games• ensuring alignment of the new national databasewith existing and proposed Softball programs andmembership model• initial work to implement opportunities identifiedin the Market Insights Project, 2012 NationalSoftball Survey and Segmentation Final ReportThe next phase will be to achieve short term prioritiesto maintain momentum and progress inclusion of thefollowing categories:• finalise the new membership categories with ourMember States• sign-off MOUs with key national partners identifiedabove• finalise key processes, such as registration, revenueand data flow• finalise member benefit packages and fee structuresfor each category of membership• draft a Membership Policy (consistent with clause5.5.7 of our Constitution) that supports theexpansion of Softball Australia’s membership model• develop a communication plan to explain thefeatures and benefits of the new model to allstakeholders; to demonstrate value for money andto encourage eligible potential members to join• ensure the National Membership Database andother relevant programs (SBU, SCCP, Social Softball,etc) will accommodate new membership categories• apply the knowledge gained from the MarketInsights Project, for example, optimal price points,preferred benefit packages and communicationchannelsSoftball Australia, in partnership with the ASC, engagedthe services of Sport Business Partners to conductsubstantial market research in identified high priorityareas. The research aimed to provide information toSoftball Australia to strengthen the delivery andcommercialisation of the sport. Sport Business Partnersprovided their final National Softball Survey andSegmentation Report. The report providedconsiderable insight into the perceptions andexpectations of the Softball community, includingcurrent and former members, and the broaderAustralian community.Softball Australia is now utilising the information toidentify strengths and weakness within the Softballmarket when we address our new membership model.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 6

Acting CEO’s ReportSustainabilityOur national events provide an opportunity toshowcase our sport, promote the sport and enhancespectator involvement. Last year we established theEvent Review Committee to evaluate and review allaspects of the current national events program. Theintention of the review was to develop an effective,commercially viable and sustainable national eventsprogram.Michael Shields, Softball Victoria Board Member, wasappointed to conduct interviews throughout Australiawith coaches, officials, administrator, participants andspectators to seek feedback regarding our nationalevents program. The report indicated a need for similarstandards across all tournaments, provide a betterfocus on our volunteers and to improve the overallatmosphere of these events to engage and attractmore spectators.The Event Review established short, medium and longterm goals that need to be finalised in consultationwith our Member States, such as:• trial combined events (eg U17 Boys and Girls samevenue) or Gilley’s Shield and U17 Girls• a review of the national events calendar, includingall Softball events (international, national and state)with the purpose of improving the current schedule• trial a proposed event model at one event, eg U17• develop a full working document for a centralisedevent program which includes procedures,processes, costings and case studies• identified and recruited volunteer SCCP Coaches todeliver the pilot programs in each state andestablished baseline numbers for FY12 and FY13 (aspart of planning/pilots)• finalised the national ISP strategy and themembership model for remote Indigenouscommunities, launched the ISP program in Canberraon 23 March with MOU sign-off in NorthernTerritory, South Australia and Western Australia• 7,896 ISP participants through various initiativesIn High Performance:• delivery of six National Catchers and Battery Campsin ACT, NSW, SA, Tas, Vic and WA• development and implementation of a nationalStrength and Conditioning program for Open andU19• review and restructure of the National EliteDevelopment program with the focus on the DailyTraining Environment (DTE)• establishment of a National Coaches Leadershipgroup, which includes the formation of theNational Coaching Committee and establishmentof the Battery Reference Group with workcommencing on the National Softball CoachesGuidelinesOur deliverablesOver the past 12 months we have achieved many of ourKey Performance Indicators (KPIs).In participation:• finalised the Softball Batter Up (SBU) program andKids Zone for associations and clubs and delivered25 pilot programs, with 1,517 SBU participants takingpart• appointed a National Community CoachCoordinator and three coordinators to develop theSCCP resources• conducted four Softball Community Coach pilotprograms to compile feedback on the inductioncourse resources and delivery methodology.Stacey WebberStacey Webber (Qld) was one of the standouts for theAussie Pride team with impressive statistics that included abatting average of 0.556, a huge 14 RBI display from 6 games(6 singles, 1 double and 3 home runs) and a slugging averageof 1.111Image courtesy Donkin Gook Photography.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 7

Acting CEO’s ReportBuilding partnerships and engagement of stakeholdersOur partnership with the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and engagement with our Member States is vital toSoftball Australia’s future growth and viability in this ever change sporting environment.I would like to acknowledge the ongoing support and assistance of the ASC’s David Crocker, Kim Williams, AndrewPratley, Peter Topp, David Simpson, Jonathan Grady, Michael McGovern, Holly French, and numerous others who,behind the scenes, continue to support our many programs and initiatives.We continued to work closely with the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet to deliver our Indigenous SoftballProgram to remote communities in rural and regional Australia.I would also like to acknowledge the staff and volunteers of all host associations who conducted nationalchampionships and events during 2011-12. An enormous amount of hard work goes into providing the facilities andinfrastructure for such events to take place.It would also be remiss of me not to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful band of loyal partners and sponsors:• Australian Sports Commission• Australian Institute of Sport• Easton/Addlon TradingOur peopleMy appreciation is extended to the directors, staff and volunteers of Softball Australia and our Member States whocontinue to make an invaluable contribution to the management and governance of the sport in Australia. Their hardwork, dedication and passion cannot be underestimated and will continue to be required as we take Softball forwardtogether.Softball is heading into a new era both on and off the diamond. While we wait for a decision regarding the jointBaseball/Softball submission to the International Olympic Committee for the 2020 program, it is the responsibility ofall stakeholders to unite and tackle the immediate challenges confronting us.These challenges include ensuring that the game stays relevant for the next generation and provide quality participationand pathway opportunities for both the recreational participant and future national team representatives.Looking forwardIndigenous Role Model, Jeff Goolagong (ACT), Open Men’s Team, Aussie SteelersOur five year strategic plan has provided the sport with a foundation for sustained growth and reform. We willcontinue to deliver our KPIs over the next 12 months:• implement the first stage of the revised or new national events programSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 8

Acting CEO’s Report• deliver the initial stage of the new inclusive membership and participation model• provide a new Member State website and updated national website• deliver a fully integrated national membership database• full implementation of the Softball Community Coach and Softball Batter Up programs in every state and intoschools• deliver a nationally coordinated Daily Training Environment which achieves National Coach expectations• achieve top three results at ISF World Championships• deliver a National Battery program• expand the social inclusion program to include recreational and corporate slow pitch opportunities• achieve a budget surplus and transparent financial reporting processes• develop and implement the first stages of the National Community Umpiring ProgramWe are now focused and determined to achieve the challenges before us!Chet GrayActing CEOSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 9

ASC MessageMessage from the Australian Sports CommissionThe Australian Government is committed to increasing participation in sport and for our high performance athletes toexcel on the world stage. Sport not only inspires and unites; it also promotes community involvement and activelifestyles.The Olympic and Paralympic Games is an exciting time for Australians and highlights the substantial contribution ofsport to the Australian community, from athletes competing in the Games to those involved in weekend clubcompetition and social play, as well as parents and volunteers.Australia’s performance at the London Olympic and Paralympic Games is the culmination of extensive long-term effortsacross the Australian high performance sector. Following the Games, there will be opportunity to celebrate our successand critically review our next steps to ensure we focus and align our efforts to deliver the best possible results on theworld stage.It is two years since the Australian Government delivered its new vision for sport through Australian Sport: The Pathwayto Success. As a result the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) received an increase in recurrent funding. Since then, wehave focused on implementing our new plans, delivering key programs, supporting national sporting organisations(NSOs) to deliver participation and high performance outcomes while also assisting with building there capacity andimproving collaboration, alignment and effectiveness within the Australian sport sector.The 2012 Budget delivered a continuation of the Active After-school Communities program. This will enable primaryschool-aged children across the country the opportunity to embed sport and physical activity into their daily life. Wewill continue working with sporting organisations at all levels to ensure the program provides maximum value to sportsand supports the transition of program participants into local clubs.The Prime Minister’s Olympic and Paralympic Challenges were a unique way for primary school children to capture theOlympic spirit and create their own Olympic journey. This initiative encouraged and inspired children to get active,have fun and earn rewards. This, coupled with participation programs delivered by NSOs, continues the AustralianGovernment’s commitment to ensuring greater access to the benefits of sport.The support received from the Australian Government for Australian sport is essential and plays an integral role inconnecting our young sporting participants with their dreams of podium success in the future.This is an exciting and challenging time for Australian sport. The Australian Sports Commission looks forward to workingwith sporting organisations, state and territory institutes and academies of sport and departments of sport andrecreation, to promote access to, and participation in sport. Together we can promote an active lifestyle and developsporting champions now and into the future.Mr David GallopActing ChairmanBoard of the Australian Sports CommissionSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 10

Strategic PlanSoftball Australia’s Strategic PlanPurposeSoftball Australia's purpose is to:• be the dynamic and innovative leader of Softball inAustralia• engage, support and inform all Softballstakeholders• raise the profile, standing of, and participation inSoftball• support and deliver quality competitive andrecreational Softball opportunities locally,nationally and internationallyVisionWe will be the world’s number one Softball nation,providing exciting competitive and recreationalopportunities to a rapidly expanding and diversemembership and to communities across Australia.Values• collaborative & cooperative• supportive & responsive• inclusive & equitable• open & transparent• innovative & creative• flexible & dynamic• professional & respectful• proactive & enthusiastic• accountable & ethical• competitive & tenaciousStrategic themesSoftball Australia will achieve its purpose and vision byfocusing on the following strategic themes that willunderpin all our objectives and initiatives. We will:• build a vibrant, diverse, satisfied and growingmembership, Softball community and other keystakeholders (our market)• adopt an innovative and integrated ‘whole of sport’approach to Softball (our product)• demonstrate governance and managementleadership, excellence, accountability and goodstewardship• deliver marketing and business developmentexcellence (promotion, communication,information and commercial acumen)• provide quality people (staff, volunteers, players,coaches, officials), facilities, equipment, technologyand other non-financial resources• establish a robust and sustainable financial basethat enables us to invest in the future of SoftballStrategic objectivesBy 30 June 2014, we will achieve the following strategicobjectives:• Membership of more than 60,000, with an annualgrowth rate of 10%• A high level of member awareness, engagement andsatisfaction with the performance of SoftballAustralia and their Softball experience• Significant growth in participation and take-up ofSoftball Australia and Member State activities,including competitions, social activities, andtraining, development and accreditation programs• A high level of positive awareness, recognition,understanding, support and engagement fromfunding-bodies, the media, general public, sponsors,commercial partners and other sporting bodies• Staff and volunteers who will be highly engaged,motivated, skilled, respected and service focused• An Australia-wide network of international,national and community facilities to enable us todeliver a great Softball experience• A portfolio of successful and viable competitions,programs and services• Up-to-date technology in place to assist with:• our knowledge and understanding of ourstakeholders• efficient development and delivery of ourprograms, products and servicesSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 11

Jessie Meyers (NSW) celebrating her home run at the IX ISF Junior World Championships, South AfricaImage courtesy Matthew HorneSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 13

Organisational StructureOrganisational StructureSoftball Australia DirectorsDennis Cullen (Chairman) Vicki Lahey (resigned 28 June 2012)Annette FidgeMichelle NancarrowJohn HollingsworthSelwyn WilliamsAshley Klein (resigned 14 May 2012)Helen LangenbergManagement teamChief Executive Officer Sue Noble (left June 2012)General Manager Operations & Technical Chet Gray (commenced Acting CEO 28 June 2012)Manager High Performance Pathways Julie Anderson (left January 2012)Jenny Cassidy (commenced as Acting in February 2012)Membership & Business Development Manager Matt Cairns (left June 2012)Marketing & Business Development Coordinator Lauren Boland (left October 2011)National Events CoordinatorMichael ChardFinance Coordinator Nina Xu (left November 2011)Replaced by Hari PrasadAustralian AIS Women’s Program CoordinatorKylie MouldseCommunications CoordinatorHelen DavisSpecial Projects ManagerRafael MartinsSchool & Club Development Coordinator Phil Hazlett (left September 2011)Social Inclusion CoordinatorTim HatziAdministration CoordinatorTracey DuscherNational Community Coaches Jenny Cassidy & Raelene Jeffrey (left June 2012)Honorary SAL HistorianMargo Koskelainen OAMAustralian AIS Women’s Head CoachKere JohansonMembership & Marketing Coordinator Kylie Bloodworth (commenced November 2011)Softball Batter Up/National Community Coach Joanne Paez (commenced May 2012)National Community Coach Coordinator Trish Bennett (commenced October 2011)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 14

Our CommitteesOur CommitteesHigh Performance CommitteeJulie Anderson (Softball Australia staff)Jenny Cassidy (Softball Australia staff))Chet Gray (Softball Australia staff)Selwyn Williams (Softball Australia Director)Michelle Nancarrow (Softball Australia Director)Kere Johanson (AIS/Open Women’s Head Coach)Sue Nisbet (Qld)Bob Harrow (Open Men’s Coach)Paula McGovern (U19 Women’s Coach)John Neilsen (U19 Men’s Coach)Terry Downes (Qld)Participation CommitteeSue Noble (Softball Australia CEO)Lauren Boland (Softball Australia staff)Matt Cairns (Softball Australia staff)Selwyn Williams (Softball Australia Director)Vicki Lahey (Softball Australia Director)Evelyn Seabourne (Tas)Nikkie Molander (Qld)Lindy Rattigan (SA)Raelene Jeffrey (Softball Australia staff)Marketing & Business Development CommitteeSue Noble (Softball Australia CEO)Lauren Boland (Softball Australia staff)Matt Cairns (Softball Australia staff)Helen Davis (Softball Australia staff)Ashley Klein (Softball Australia Director)Selwyn Williams (Softball Australia Director)Roger Maddern (Vic)Membership CommitteeSue Noble (Softball Australia CEO)Matt Cairns (Softball Australia staff)Dennis Cullen (Softball Australia Director)Vicki Lahey (Softball Australia Director)Susan Rindfleish (NSW)Noelene Elvish (NT)Mark Jeppesen (Qld)Roger Maddern (Vic)National Scoring CommitteeMichael Hannelly – Chief Statistician (NSW)Carolyn Buttsworth (NSW)Ngaire Huston (Qld)Lindy Rattigan(SA)Chris Trengove (Vic)Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)National Events CommitteeJulie Anderson (Softball Australia staff)Michael Chard (Softball Australia staff)Kylie Bloodworth (Softball Australia staff)Jenny Cassidy (Softball Australia staff)Chet Gray (Softball Australia staff)Mike Hannelly (NSW)Jodie Bowering (Qld)Tricia Sibraa (Qld)Sheryl Burnie (Tas)Shirley Schneider (WA)Technical CommitteeJulie Anderson (Softball Australia staff)Chet Gray (Softball Australia staff)Dennis Cullen (Softball Australia Director)Ken Culpitt (ACT) (resigned November 2011)Mike Hannelly (NSW)Tricia Sibraa (Qld)Margo Koskelainen (Vic)Ray Carter (Vic)National Umpiring CommitteeTricia Sibraa – National UIC – Operations (Qld)Leigh Evans – UIC – Technical (Vic)Debbie Grove – UIC – Development(Vic)Yvonne Kahler (Qld)Darren Sibraa (Qld)Bridget Cameron (Qld) (November 2011)Kyira Cox (NSW) (November 2011)Amanda Houison (NSW)History & Recognition CommitteeKen Culpitt (ACT)Cathy Kerr (NSW)Neville Lawrance (SA)Audrey McLaughlin AM (Qld)Margo Koskelainen OAM (Vic)Lorraine Ireland (Vic)Shirley Schneider (WA)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 15

New Branding for National TeamsSoftball Australia announces new branding for national teamsIn May 2012, the new team logos for our national teams were unveiled. The logos complete a review of the SoftballAustralia national team brand after the redesign of the team uniforms with new uniform supplier, Kukri.The graphic components are unique to each team. They have their own style and energy and represent the values ofeach national team with a refinement of existing shapes (Aussie Steelers and Aussie Colts) and the creation of newlogos (Aussie Spirit and Aussie Pride).The Aussie Spirit leadership group, Stacey Porter (NSW), Jodie Bowering (Qld) and Leigh Godfrey (WA) had a great dealof input into the design, with the logos representing the five core values of the team Aussie Spirit Vice Captain, JodieBowering says ‘The new logo compliments not only the values and objectives of the team and to be allowed the inputto the new logos gave the girls a sense of ownership to the Aussie Spirit direction moving forward.’The Aussie Steelers and Aussie Colts maintain the integrity of the previous logos with the images of the kangaroo andcolt, both formidable animals, strong and tough like our World Champion teamsSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 16

High PerformanceHigh PerformanceHarnessing the knowledge and expertise of our national head coaches to develop the high performance initiatives willstrengthen our vision for closer alignment of all programs.With change comes innovation and diversity.To ensure ongoing success on the international stage,Softball Australia is striving to create an eliteenvironment for our teams to achieve success. One ofour 2011/12 priorities was to provide a robust trainingand competition schedule to prepare our athletes,coaches and officials for their World Championshipcampaigns. Other priorities included:• establish a National Leadership Advisory Groupcomprising all national head coaches• closer alignment of both our men and women’sprograms• provide succession planning to ensure sustainablelong term success• review our National Elite Development Programimplementation plan• introduce a National Strength and Conditioningprograms for U17 boys and girls• in consultation with National Head Coaches andMember State, establish a DTE model to bedelivered to accommodate each program’srequirements• develop the National Coaching Guidelines for statebased DTE coachesNational Coaching Leadership AdvisoryGroupThe National Coaching Leadership Advisory Groupreplaces the formerly appointed High PerformanceWorking Committee. Committee members are:• Kere Johanson, Head CoachAustralian Open Women, Aussie Spirit• Bob Harrow, Head CoachAustralian Open Men, Aussie Steelers• Shane Hughes, Head CoachAustralian U19 Women, Aussie Pride• Gary Butler, Australian U19 MenAussie Colts• Vicki Bingley, Head CoachAustralian U17 Girls• Kathy Horton, Head CoachAustralian U17 BoysThe National Coaching Leadership Advisory Group hasappropriate leadership to provide effective programgovernance and management. They will assist with thedirection of our identified priorities for all nationalprograms. Harnessing the knowledge and expertise ofour national head coaches to develop the highperformance initiatives will strengthen our vision forcloser alignment of all programs. We would like toacknowledge and thank all members of the HighPerformance Working Group for their time andcommitment to Softball.National Head CoachesKere JohansonAIS Australian Open WomenBob HarrowAustralian Open MenShane Hughes (March 2012)Paula McGovern (December 2011)Australian U19 WomenJohn NeilsenAustralian U19 MenKathryn HortonAustralian U17 BoysVicki BingleyKere JohansonAIS Australian Open WomenSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Bob HarrowPage | 17Australian Open Men

High PerformanceElite competition2011 ISF IX Junior Women’s WorldChampionshipThe Australian U19 Women’s Team, Aussie Pride,finished 4 th at the IX ISF Junior Women’s WorldChampionship held in South Africa from 7 -17December 2011. It was a closely contested competitionwith the team only losing games to the three eventualmedal winners – USA, Japan and Chinese Taipei.Australia commenced the World Championshipcampaign with a 12-1, 5 innings victory against Russia infront of a strong crowd of Aussie Pride supporters. Thematch was highlighted by a 3 run home run hit byJessica Meyers (NSW) in the 3 rd innings.The following day saw an unpredictably tightencounter against Brazil, with Australia winning 3-0.The team was defeated on day 3 by the 2 nd rankedJapanese team 7-2, the second innings proving to bethe difference between the two teams as Japan scored4 runs from 5 hits. Australia went on to win the finalthree round games, with a 10-0 win over Germany, aspectacular 9-4 win over Chinese Taipei and 7-0 winover Argentina.Stacey Webber (Qld) was one of the standouts for theAussie Pride team with impressive statistics thatincluded a batting average of 0.556, a huge 14 RBIdisplay from 6 games (6 singles, 1 double and 3 homeruns) and a slugging average of 1.111. Lana Tye (NSW)also displayed exceptional pitching form throughoutthe World Championship, notably striking out 12batters in the semi-final against Chinese Taipei.2011 Canadian Open Fastpitch InternationalChampionships and World Cup of Softball VIThe Australian Open Women’s Team, Aussie Spirit,competed in the Canadian Open FastpitchInternational Championship in Vancouver from 9-17July 2011 and the World Cup of Softball VI in Oklahomafrom 21-25 July. The team finished 3 rd and 4 threspectively, playing 19 games over 15 days andcompleting a vital part of their preparation for the 2012XIII ISF Open Women's World Championship.Australia finished in second position of pool B, earninga double chance in the finals series where they met thedefending champions, the USA. Although defeated bythe USA, there were a number of noteworthyperformances from the Aussie Pride defense,committing only one error all game. Pitchers Lana Tye(NSW) and Ellen Roberts (NSW) combined for 5 strikeouts.With a second chance on offer and progression to thefinal four at stake, Australia defeated New Zealand 7-0in 6 innings.Australia was courageous in the play-off for the bronzemedal, going down 3-2 in the 9 th innings to a strongeropponent in Chinese Taipei.Vanessa Stokes (SA) pitches at Round 1 Gilley’s ShieldImage courtesy Neil MedlandSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 18

High PerformanceOther eventsTest Series: Australia v New ZealandAt the conclusion of the Edebone-Weber Shield inCanberra, Aussie Spirit and the New Zealand White Soxcompeted in a three game Test Series. Australia tookout the series 3-0, defeating New Zealand in the finalgame 8-0. Christina Kreppold (WA), Kara Murphy (NSW)Vanessa Stokes (SA) and Marina Walker (Vic) played forAustralia for the first time.International Challenge Series: Japan vAustraliaAt the completion of Gilley’s Shield Round 4 atBlacktown Olympic Park (NSW), a squad of 20 athleteswere selected to compete against Japan in a 7 gameseries in Canberra from 21-24 March 2012. The Seriesallowed both teams to use the competition as a finalselection event for the 2012 XIII ISF Open Women'sWorld Championship.The Japanese team consisted of the number onewomen’s pitcher, Yukiko Ueno, and fellow 2008Olympic gold medallists, Yukiyo Mine, Rei Nishiyamaand Eri Yamada.Japan took out the series 5-2, with Australia finishingstrongly in the last game to win a spectacular game 6-5.Securing the number two world ranked team andreigning Olympic Softball gold medallists for a testseries leading into the World Championship was agreat achievement for Softball Australia and testimonyto the strength of Australian Women’s Softball on theworld stage.Stacey Porter (NSW) was awarded Most ValuablePlayer of the series, playing in all 7 games, hitting 3home runs with a batting average of 0.421.AIS Women’s Softball ProgramThe AIS Softball Program was established in 1993 andhas been a major factor in the strength and success ofAustralian Women’s Softball. The purpose of theprogram is to provide a Daily Training Environment(DTE) for elite female athletes, that supports thedevelopment of world class players and nurtureschampion Australian teams. Softball Australia and theAIS Head Coach, Kere Johanson, coordinate a networkof coaches in each state to assist in the provision ofexpert contemporary coaching and training.Seven AIS training camps were conducted during theyear to support the national team in the lead up to the2012 XIII ISF Open Women's World Championship heldin Yukon, Canada from 13-22 July:• AIS pre-tour Camp, Blacktown, NSW, 2-3 July 2011Australian based athletes and coaches attended atwo day training camp prior to departure for theCanadian Open Fastpitch InternationalChampionships in Vancouver.• AIS Induction Camp, AIS Canberra, ACT, 8-11September 2011The athletes were addressed by acting AIS CEO, PhilBorgeaud, and were provided with anti-doping andnutrition information. The Aussie Pride joined thecamp as part of their final preparation for the IX ISFJunior Women’s World Championship held in SouthAfrica, 7-17 December 2011.• AIS Pre and post Gilley’s Shield, Round 1 Camps, 26and 31 October 2011• AIS Pre Gilley’s Shield, Round 2 Camp, 24 November2011• AIS Camp, Blacktown, NSW, 2-4 March 2012• AIS Camp, West Beach, SA, 2-4 June 2012Twelve athletes and national coaching staffattended this final camp prior to departure to theUS and Canada.• AIS pre-tour Camp, Oklahoma University, 24-26June 2012Seventeen athletes and national coaching staffattended the Camp.In December 2011, 25 of the available 28 AISScholarships were selected to the Australian OpenWomen’s Squad. Scholarships were awarded on aneight month basis with the intention of providingsports medicine and science support to recipients, aswell as access to the facilities of the AIS and the StateSports Academies and Institutes in ACT, NSW, Qld, Vic,WA and SA.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 19

High PerformanceEvents ReviewIn February 2011, the Softball Australia Board endorsed a proposal to undertake a comprehensive review of SoftballAustralia’s National Events program. In the initial phase of the review, key stakeholder interviews were conducted togather information to identify what was, and wasn’t working Recommendations were prepared for discussion andapproval by the Softball Australia Board.Members of the Event Review Working Group were:• Kylie Bloodworth (Softball Australia)• Michael Chard (Softball Australia)• Chet Gray (Softball Australia)• Cathy Kerr (Softball NSW)• Sue Nisbet (Softball Qld)• Trevor Schorer (Softball WA)• Mike Shields (Softball Vic)• Steve Trzcinski (Softball SA)The Group will recommend future event mix, structure and process, through:• scoping all aspects of the current Australian Championship program with a view to implementing an effective,commercially viable and sustainable program that is more attractive to participants, spectators, business partners,funding bodies and the media• the evaluation and introduction of new event concepts eg the Australia Cup concept arising from the Softballcommercialisation and research projectsOn behalf of High Performance, I would like to thank all staff members, volunteers, team staff and Member States fortheir ongoing passion, dedication and support of all our national squads and teams. For Softball in Australia to continueto move forward, it is critical we attract, develop and retain a hard working network of coaches, mangers and supportstaff. To guarantee ongoing success on the international stage, Softball Australia also recognises the outstandingsupport of our key stakeholders, particularly the ASC and AIS. This support allows our national teams to participate inelite international events, whilst endorsing a High Performance training environment for coaches and athletesthroughout Australia.Paula McGovernPaula McGovern was appointed Head Coach of the Australian U19 Women’s team,Aussie Pride, in 2008. For the past 7 years, Paula has been a national selector for theAustralian Open Women's Program, four of those years as chair of the U 19 Women'sSelection panel.A valued member of the High Performance Working Committee, Paula assistedSoftball Australia in the development of resources, providing feedback on coacheducation and delivering coaching courses to a range of coaches and teachers over a10 year period.Paula’s commitment to developing young athletes and her passion for the game isunquestionable. A career highlight was leading the team at the IX Junior WorldChampionship, South Africa, December 2011.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 20

MembershipMembershipThe Membership Review Project has provided Softball Australia with a clear way forward …Our MembersThis statistical snapshot of membership provides a brief picture of Australia-wide participation in mainstream programswithin our associations and clubs. It must be noted that the trend of decline in traditional membership has continued in2011, whilst the Membership Review Project has yet to implement strategies to arrest this state.Positively, it is worth noting that Western Australia has resisted a nation-wide trend, recording growth in excess of 17%,on the back of strong increased female participation.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 21

MembershipMembership Management PlanThe membership management plan has providedimpetus for the creation of a Membership ReviewProject Team, overseen by Michael Shields (Vic):• Sue Rindfleish (NSW)• Mark Jeppesen (Qld)• Bob Nicholson (SA)• John Milbourne (Tas)• Jenny Holliday (Vic)• Trevor Howard (WA)• Andrew Pratley (ASC)• David Simpson (ASC)The Project Team has progressed work on priorities inthe last 12 months with a focus on implementingstrategies identified in the past year to help arrest thedecline in membership. In November 2012, the keyaction will have been achieved, with the presentationof a new membership model to Member States at theSoftball Australia Annual General Meeting for theirconsideration.In addition, further outcomes have been advanced,including:• preparation of Memorandums of Understandingwith key national partners, that include significantproviders of Softball outside of the traditionalsport structure• development of a proposed member rewardsscheme and new business model• alignment of the new national database withexisting and proposed Softball programs andmembership model• initial work to implement opportunities identifiedin the Market Insights project, 2012 NationalSoftball Survey and Segmentation Final ReportThis work is seen as an essential complement to thenew membership model, the impact of which will beenhanced as the sport continues to accept changes tothe status quo.Market researchThe 2012 National Softball Survey and SegmentationFinal Report provided considerable insight into theperceptions and expectations of the Softballcommunity, including current and former members,and the broader Australian community. SoftballAustralia will use the report to shape not only the newmembership model, but the development of initiativesthat supplement the model and strengthen the overallposition of the sport.Looking forwardSoftball Australia is presented with an opportunity to not only address the trend of membership decline, but at thesame time, the perceived weaknesses of the current sport structures. The Membership Review Project has providedSoftball Australia with a clear way forward. To complement the Project in 2012/13, Softball Australia will continue toexpand the Softball Batter Up, Indigenous Softball and Softball Community Coaching Programs. In addition, possiblefuture initiatives, such as Little League, will provide a broader experience for membership.Jodie Bowering, Aussie SpiritImage courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 22

MembershipMembership breakdownSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 23

MembershipMembership breakdown (cont’d)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 24

MembershipMembership breakdown (cont’d)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 25

MembershipMembership breakdown (cont’d)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 26

Member RecognitionMember Recognition2011 Softball Australia Awards and Honours DinnerThe 2011 Softball Australia Awards and Honours Dinner was held at the Rooty Hill RSL on 18 February 2012 following theconclusion of the John Reid and Gilley’s Shield Championships. Joyce Lester, Olympian and member of the SoftballAustralia Hall of Fame, was the evening’s Master of Ceremonies.Two very special presentations were made during the evening – Darryl Clout was formally recognised for his 2010 LifeMembership and Bob Harrow, Australian Open Men's Head Coach, was inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame.2011 Softball Australia Awards and Honours DinnerImage courtesy Donkin Gook Photography2011 Softball Australia Award WinnersAward Winners StateJunior Male Athlete of the Year Mitchell Brownlow NSWJunior Female Athlete of the Year Georgia Casey NSWStatistician of the Year Chris Trengove VicAdministrator of the Year Chris Heron NTCoach of the Year Darrin Crisp NSWLocal Association of the Year Waverley Softball Association VicIndigenous Athlete of the Year Stacey Porter NSWMale Athlete of the Year Andrew Kirkpatrick ACTFemale Athlete of the Year Stacey Porter NSW2011 Spirit Award Andrew Kirkpatrick ACT2011 Vivienne Triplett Umpire of the Year Award Scott Rindfleish NSWSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 27

Member Recognition2011 Softball Australia Service AwardsThe Softball Australia Service Award recognises significant contributions to Softball. It is made to any member (playeror non-player) who has given at least 10 years noteworthy service to Softball in Australia.StateNSWQldVicWinnersMichelle Cate, Carlye Doney, Beryl Foster, Maree Hayden, Carol Jones, George Norrish, MichelleNohotima, Janne TriggSandra Gierke, Chris Edards, Jamie Ogden, Lorraine Rylatt, Barry SandfordBev Allan, Ellen Dimitrijevic, Robyn de Sachau, Henry de Sachau, Sandra Evans, Esther Lightowler,Danny McCarthy, Coralee McMenomy, Rhonda Rowe, Brendan Shatwell, Stan Tolmie, Karl Willmott,Di Waller, Phil Waller2011 ISF Hall of Fame inducteesThe ISF Hall of Fame was established to recognise outstanding performance both on and off the Softball field.Nominations are made by the National Association or Federation and all nominees must meet the selection criteria.In 2011, three Australians – Bob Harrow, Paul Maisey and Peta Edebone – were inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame.Bob Harrow Paul Maisey Peta EdeboneSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 28

Member RecognitionSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 29

Member RecognitionPeta EdebonePeta Edebone is known for her courage, dedication and commitment to the pursuit of success. She began herrepresentative career when she was chosen for the Victorian U16 Team in 1984 and played for three years in the juniorranks. Peta represented the Victorian Open Women’s team for a total of 15 years, including captaining the team from1994-2004. In 1993, Peta won the Sybil Turner Medal for Best Batter at the Australian Open Women's FastpitchChampionship and, in 1997 at the same event, won the Midge Nelson Medal for Most Valuable Player.In 1992, Peta made her debut in the Australian Open Women's Team at the Challenger Cup in Beijing, as the 160 th playerto represent Australia. She played at three ISF World Championships, in 1994 in Canada (bronze), in 1998 in Japan (silver)and in 2002 in Canada (5 th ). Peta also played in three Olympic Games – 1996 in Atlanta (bronze), 2000 in Sydney (bronze)and 2004 in Athens (silver).She was highly regarded as one of the world’s leading batters and defensive players in the positions of 1 st base andoutfield. At the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Peta equalled the then Olympic Record of four home runs. From 1998-2000 she was Vice Captain of the Australian Open Women’s Team and in January 2001, was given the honour ofcaptaining the Australian Open Women's Team, a position she held until her retirement.Peta retired having played a total of 328 international matches for the Australian Open Women's Team, at the timemaking her the second most capped Australian player ever behind Sally McCreedy (356 caps). In 2008, Peta wasinducted into the Softball Australia Hall of Fame.Peta Edebone (left) with Haylea Petrie after winning the Bronze Medal after the 1996 Atlanta Olympic GamesSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 30

Member RecognitionBob HarrowBob has dedicated 20 years of service to Softball in Australia, particularly to the elite women’s and men’s programs.Since 2000, Bob has been Head Coach of the Australian Open Men’s team, the Aussie Steelers, achieving great success,including winning the 2009 ISF XII Open Men’s World Championship.Further to his involvement with Australian National teams, Bob has also influenced the national elite competition.Following the 1986 ISF VI Women’s World Championship, and the Australian Men’s debut at the 1988 ISF VII Men’sWorld Championship, he recognised the need for another tier of elite national competition. His vision included bothmale and female programs, which aimed to maximise the opportunities for top tier and emerging Australian players togain high quality competition. Bob’s vision resulted in the National Fastpitch Softball League, conducted from 1989 until1996.Over the seven seasons the League operated, it attracted more than 750 players, 200 umpires and 75 statisticians. TheLeague was an invaluable developmental breeding ground for males and females aspiring to represent their country. Itwas particularly vital for the women’s development pathway, with the potential for participants to be a part of the firstAustralian Women’s Olympic Softball team.Throughout Bob’s decorated career he has been recognised at numerous levels. In 2009 after the Aussie Steelers WorldChampionship win, he was inducted in the Softball Australia Hall of Fame. In 2010, he was honoured with SoftballAustralia Life Membership and has been awarded both Softball Australia and ACT Coach of the Year honours.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 31

Member RecognitionSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 32

Member RecognitionSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 33

Member RecognitionPaul MaiseyPaul debuted for the Aussie Steelers, in New Zealand, in 1995. He was the 32 nd male player to represent Australia andplayed in 24 international tournaments. During his career, he played in three World Championships – 1996, 2000 and2004 – winning a bronze medal in 2004 with the Aussie Steelers. Paul retired from international competition after the2006 Commonwealth Men’s Championships.Following his retirement, Paul continued to play at state level, representing Victoria until 2008. He led Victoria tomultiple national titles in 17 years, at the same time receiving individual batting awards. Paul has also made a significantcontribution at club level, helping to establish Metrans Softball Club in Melbourne. He continues his strong associationwith Softball by coaching and mentoring young players.Paul was inducted into the Softball Australia Hall of Fame in 2011 for his outstanding services to Australian Softball overa career spanning 15 years.Images courtesy TruView PhotographyJames Brooks, Kris Kiefel and Paul Maisey at the 2006 Commonwealth Men’s ChampionshipSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 34

Member RecognitionRetirementJosh DavisonSoftball Australia Hall of Fame inductee, Josh Davison, announced hisretirement this year. Davison was inducted into the Softball Australia Hallof Fame in 2008 after an outstanding international career. In 2009 he waspart of the Aussie Steelers team who were inducted into the SoftballAustralia Hall of Fame after their World Championship title.Davison effectively had two Softball careers. Josh was the 31 st player torepresent Australia, his debut tournament was under Head Coach, BarryBlanchard at the 1995 NZ Provincial Championship. He representedAustralia for five years until he decided to retire from the game in 2000.A decision to return to the game and play the John Reid Shield in 2009for his new state, Queensland, ignited a successful return to the sport forJosh Davison. His performance at this tournament earned him selection inthe Aussie Steelers team for the 2009 ISF World Championships, wherethe Aussie Steelers created history by winning the World Championshiptitle.Head Coach, Bob Harrow speaks on the impact Josh made to the Steelersprogram:‘Josh is one of the most dedicated & rejuvenated athletes that have beeninvolved in the Steelers program for many years and his training methods and desire are second to none. He proved tobe one of the quickest and most disciplined left handed batters in the game. I can still visualize the moment when Joshexecuted perfectly the Hard Slap that rocketed by the Blacksox infield to score Michael Tanner in the WorldChampionship final.’Former Aussie Steelers Captain, Mike Harrow speaks of the great qualities Josh has on and off the field. ‘Davo broughtmany great qualities to the Steelers team and to the game of Softball. He was always a tough but fair competitor, andhad that great combination of speed and power. He was extremely versatile and he truly loved the game! Josh playedto win, but was always smiling and having a great time – I think that is what makes him such a tough person to replaceon any team.’On announcing his retirement to his team, Davison words to his Aussie Steelers teammates and the Softball communityshow the passion he has for the sport and his Aussie Steelers team mates:‘My involvement within the Aussie Steelers family has been nothing short of unbelievable and unforgettable. Awhirlwind of memories and moments will be talked about at ballparks around the world and in our homes forever. Thefeeling we created in becoming World Champions in 2009 I will never let go, the moment Adam (Folkard) struck outDonny Hale was a truly sensational moment for everyone involved. I started counting the outs from about the 4 thinnings because once the Steelers scored our first run I could see it in everybody's eyes that we were going to win thisthing, we were all that determined it was scary. Since coming back into the team the culture within the Steelers unit issomething to experience, I mean the discipline, direction and resilience all players and officials displayed has been Firstand World class, it’s a credit to all involved.’The whole Softball community congratulates Josh for an outstanding career.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 35

Member RecognitionSoftball Australia mourns a talented athleteOn 30 May 2012, Softball Australia lost one of its up and coming stars, Lisa Pitt.Lisa will be fondly remembered as a friendly, kind hearted person and an extremelytalented West Australian Softballer.She was a member of the 2011 Softball Australia International Youth Cup Squad and 2012U19 Australian Women’s Squad. In 2012, Lisa was also nominated for Softball Australia’sIndigenous Athlete of the Year.Lisa was joint winner of the Most Valuable Player Award for her performances in theWestern Australia U17 State team at the 2011 Australian U19 Women’s Championship,Esther Deason Shield. As a result, she was named in the Western Flames Squad inSeptember 2011.Lisa received the Town of Port Hedland and ITOCHU Junior Athlete of the Year Awardfor her achievements with Softball in December 2011.She will also be remembered as a fantastic role model, delivering Softball clinics to students at Marble Bar PrimarySchool and juniors from the Port Hedland Softball AssociationSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 36

Member RecognitionTaylah Tsitsikronis (NSW) playing for Aussie Pride in South Africa.Image courtesy Matthew HorneSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 37

CoachingCoachingOur coaches continue to make an outstandingcontribution to an individual’s experience and longterm participation in the sport. Our volunteer coachingworkforce should continue to be recognised andacknowledged for the exceptional work, delivering apositive and fun experience to our members.This past year has seen the implementation andprogression of coach education, development andaccreditation. These advances will build a workforcethat supports a positive and inclusive Softballexperience.Accreditation and professional developmentWork has continued over the last 12 months to updatethe existing Level 2 and 3 National Coach Accreditationcourse resources. The resources developed for eachprogram consist of the Participant’s Manual, Deliverer’sGuide, Assessment Booklet and presentation. Levels 1-3have now been approved by the ASC and form part ofthe National Coaching Accreditation Scheme (NCAS).Forty-six coach accreditation courses were conductedacross the country. The majority of new coachaccreditations were achieved through a combinationof face-to-face courses and online learning, whichgives coaches the opportunity to complete theiraccreditation at their own pace. The total number ofaccredited coaches at 30 June 2012 is 2,052, brokendown as follows:Coaching National ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WALevel 1 1,040 25 609 11 145 22 0 179 49Level 2 456 27 291 3 45 1 0 49 39Level 3 445 17 237 4 110 1 3 71 5Level 4 60 6 10 0 35 2 0 3 4Level 5 48 4 22 0 1 10 0 11 0Level 6 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 0Total 2,051 79 1,171 18 336 36 4 313 97SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 38

CoachingCoaching and Team Manager appointmentsAt the 2011 International Youth Cup, the following coaches were appointed to the Australian Development teams:Team Coach Team ManagerAustralian U19 WomenAussie Gold U19 GirlsAussie U17 GirlsAustralian U19 MenAussie Green U19 BoysAussie Gold U19 BoysAussie U17 BoysPaula McGovern (Vic)Annette Fidge (SA)Vicki Bingley (NSW)Cheryl Waye (Vic)Alan Bain (ACT)Vicki Bingley (ACT)Maurice Paraha (Qld)John Neilsen (NSW)Gary Butler (WA)Tony Jackson (NSW)Adam Sheehan (NSW)Sandra Evans (Vic)Alan McNulty (NSW)Adam Sheehan (NSW)Scott Sullivan (WA)Robert Cook (SA)Ian Deany (Vic)Faye Guy (Qld)Jodie Sheehan (NSW)Jodie Sheehan (NSW)Colleen Franks (NSW)During the event, nightly coaching information sessions were conducted on Mental Preparation and Performance,Athlete Testing Procotols, The Short Game Strategy and Nutrition for Softball.Looking forwardA National Technical Conference for coaches, umpires and statisticians is planned for May 2013 at the AIS. The mainobjectives of the conference will be to provide professional development opportunities, as well as conducting jointsessions on topics relevant to both coaches and officials.Several Softball specific modules of the Level 4 Coach Accreditation course will be delivered in early 2013, includingpitching and catching, baserunning and defensive strategies.Chantelle James (WA), Assistant Coach, Aussie PrideImage courtesy Matthew HorneSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 39

ScoringScoringThe National Scoring Committee (NSC) continues to work behind the scenes, ensuring that the technical field of scoringis continuous. In addition, the NSC provides guidance and direction to the State Directors – and this is well supportedby regular teleconferences, which have replaced the weekend conferences.The NSC has continued to support National events throughout Australia with official statisticians providing results, webreporting and official statistics for Softball Australia selectors and teams. The NSC has also supported Member Stateswith reference materials for the delivery of ongoing training.National team scoring appointmentsThe following statisticians were appointed to international Championships:• Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)2011 Open Women’s Tour, Canadian Open International Women Fastpitch in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada• Helen Edwards (Vic)2011 IV International Men’s Softball Tournament Open Men’s in Parana, Argentina• Sarah Thompson (NSW)2011 U19 Men’s Team IV International Men’s Softball Tournament Open Men’s in Parana, Argentina• Kirsty Andrews (Qld)2011 ISF XI Junior Women’s World Championships in Capetown, South Africa• Helen Edwards (Vic)2011 ISF Oceania Men’s Qualifier at Hawker International Softball Complex Canberra, ACT• Lynne Townsend (NSW)2012 International Softball Challenge (ACT)Australian Championship Chief Statistician appointmentsThe following Chief Statisticians were appointed for the 2011/12 Australian Championships:Arthur Allsopp Shield, Australian U17 Boys' Championship (Vic)Esther Deason Shield, Australian U17 Girls' Championship (Tas)Nox Bailey Shield (ACT)Australian U19 Men's ChampionshipElinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women's Championship (WA)Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber ShieldAustralian Open Women's ChampionshipRound 1 (Vic)Round 2 (Qld)Round 3 (ACT)Round 4 (NSW)John Reid Shield, Australian Open Men's Championship (NSW)ISF Open Men’s Oceania Qualifier (ACT)Test Series: Aussie Spirit and NZ White Sox (ACT)International Softball Challenge (ACT)International Friendship Series (NSW)Helen Edwards (Vic) and Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)Sandra Palmer (NSW) and Angela Forgan (Vic)Matt Denkel (Qld)Lorraine Davies (Vic)Chris Trengove (Vic) – Gilley’s TCSRay Carter (Vic)Christine Denkel (Qld)Chris Trengove (Vic)Kaye Greggs (NSW)Kaye Greggs (NSW)Lorraine Davies (Vic)Lynne Townsend (NSW)Lorraine Davies (Vic)Kaye Greggs (NSW)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 40

ScoringAccreditation and professional developmentThe number of accredited scorers continues to grow with a 34% increase through the National Officiating AccreditationScheme (NOAS) in the past year. The State Directors of Scoring continue to recruit, train and deliver scoring programsacross the country.The total number of scorers is 1,649 (30 June 2012), an increase of 566 on 2011.Level National ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WALevel 1 1,254 10 800 2 115 85 25 121 96Level 2 177 5 68 0 14 10 5 58 17Level 3 143 5 33 0 44 21 6 33 1Level 4 75 2 25 0 21 4 6 9 8Total 1,649 22 926 2 194 120 42 221 122SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 41

ScoringScoring coursesMember State summaries of scoring courses undertaken (does not include individual NOAS accredited scorers updatingtheir accreditation currency).ACT NSW Qld SA Vic Tas WACourses delivered 2 20 2 4 9 1 3Level 1 (new) 3 85 - 20 42 - 16Level 2 (upgrade) 1 25 1 3 18 1 -Level 3 (upgrade) - 1 - 4 6 - -Level 4 (upgrade) - 1 5 - - 1 1NOAS Level 4 candidates, assessed by the NSC Quality Assurance officer, (for period 1 July 2011 to 30 June 2012) were:• Sean Francis (Qld)• Chris Fraser (NSW)• Norm Johns (Tas)• Lynette Eltoft (WA)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 42

ScoringNational Quality Assurance ProgramQuality assurance is undertaken following all national games, assessing both paper scoring, and electronic methods.Arthur Allsopp Shield, Australian U17 Boys' Championship (SA)Esther Deason Shield, Australian U17 Girls' Championship (Vic)Nox Bailey Shield, Australian U19 Men's Championship (Vic)Elinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women's Championship (NSW)John Reid Shield, Australian Open Men's Championship (Qld)Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield, Australian Open Women's Championship34 games played, 6 scorers reviewed64 games played, 7 scorers reviewed34 games played, 5 scorers reviewed46 games played, 7 scorers reviewed34 games played, 8 scorers reviewed82 games played, 32 scorers reviewedResourcesThe National Scoring Committee was able to complete the following resources over the past twelve months:• a National rules exam was developed with assistance from the National Umpiring Committee• all accreditation manuals and NOAS scoring programs have now been updated and approved by ASC• all scoring accreditation resources on the Softball Australia website have been updated. The remaining informationis under full review.ManagementThe management of Softball Australia’s National Scoring Program is overseen by the National Scoring Committee,comprising:Chief StatisticianScoring StaffState Directors of ScoringMichael Hannelly (NSW)Lindy Rattigan (SA)Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)Ngaire Huston (Qld)Chris Trengove (Vic)Carolyn Buttsworth (NSW)Lyn Lalas (ACT)Kaye Greggs (NSW)Matt Denkel (Qld)Lorraine Davies (Vic)Lindy Rattigan (SA)Lynne Eltoft (WA)The NSC, supported by Softball Australia’s General Manager Operations and Technical, Chet Gray, has undertakensignificant work, holding four teleconferences in August, October, March and June. Key projects include a review andupdate of the NOAS Level 4 in accordance with ASC requirements. The NSC has overseen the appointment process forall Australian Championship Tournament Chief Scorers and the website reporting of all Australian Championship resultsand the National Quality Assurance program. The National Chief Statistician, Mike Hannelly (NSW) oversaw the processof Australian team appointments.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 43

ScoringThe NSC will continue its busy program in 2012/13, including:• compiling statistics from the 2012/13 Australian Championships• reviewing the career pathway for scorers to ensure they have the skills and experience to meet the futurerequirements• revising and updating the scoring manuals and course requirements• developing a community officiating program to support the recruitment and retention of scorers at club levelRecognitionThe NSC extends their congratulations to Chris Trengove (Vic), the winner of the 2011 Softball Australia Statistician ofthe Year.Image courtesy Greg HeronSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 44

UmpiringUmpiringSoftball Australia’s National Umpiring Program (NUP)has been held in high regard on the international scenefor many years and the National Umpiring Committee(NUC) were delighted when two of its mostoutstanding umpires were appointed to the final of the2011 ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championships goldmedal game:• Helen Strauss (Qld) was appointed as the PlateUmpire• Yvonne Kahler (Qld) was appointed as the SecondBase UmpireThese two appointments are an indication that theprogram is continuing to produce umpires of thehighest quality through the hard work of many people.The State Directors of Umpiring meeting was held atSoftball Australia’s office in August 2011. A range oftopics were covered throughout the meeting includingumpire survey results from each nationalchampionship, ways to improve communicationincluding how regular Blues News Online (BNOL)should be published, and umpire accreditationincluding the latest news received from ISF in relationto when and how umpires are appointed to WorldChampionships and development.Accreditation and professionaldevelopmentThis year, the NUC completed 3 Umpire RotationSystem document, Level 3 and 4 Umpire Manual,Tournament Chief Umpire Manual, Community UmpireManual, Attending National/InternationalChampionship Document and Mentoring Document.The next step will be to have these manuals accreditedby the Australian Sports Commission.The total number of active accredited umpires is 1,255 (30 June 2012), broken down as follows:SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 45

UmpiringUmpiring National ACT NSW NT SA Qld Tas Vic WALevel 1 799 9 148 12 66 325 7 197 35Level 2 222 8 31 6 29 83 3 39 23Level 3 115 6 24 0 12 32 3 16 22Level 4 45 1 6 1 5 21 2 4 5Level 5 22 2 5 0 2 8 0 4 1Level 6 40 1 12 0 3 11 0 10 3Level 7 3 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 0Level 8 9 0 2 0 3 1 0 3 0Total 1,255 28 228 19 120 482 15 274 89Advanced Umpire ClinicGeorges River Softball Association, NSW2-3 July 2011An Advanced Umpire Clinic was presented by Scott Rindfleish (NSW), with the assistance from Ron Houison (NSW) andYvonne Kahler (Qld) at Georges River Softball Association in July. Six participants from three states attended:• NSW Andrew Compton, Adrian Rampoldi, James English and Krissi Travers• Vic Richard Dodds• WA Steven GunterParticipants were allocated games at the International Friendship Series and were observed by senior umpires whoevaluated their performances.Level 5 accreditationThe following umpires attained their Level 5 umpire accreditation at the conclusion of their respective AustralianChampionships:Esther Deason ShieldAustralian U17 Girls’ ChampionshipArthur Allsopp ShieldAustralian U17 Boys’ ChampionshipElinor McKenzie ShieldAustralian U19 Women’s ChampionshipJames English (NSW), Haydyn Wood (SA)Richard Dodds (Vic), Jamie Harries (Qld)Norelle Thomas (Qld)Level 6 accreditationThe following umpires attained their Level 6 umpire accreditation at the conclusion of their respective AustralianChampionships:Gilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber ShieldAustralian Open Women's ChampionshipNox Bailey ShieldAustralian U19 Men's ChampionshipBridget Cameron (Qld), Jay Gibson (NSW), Jana McCaskill (Qld)Trevor Murphy (Vic)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 46

UmpiringUmpiring examIn May 2012, a total of 341 umpires sat the 2012 National Rules Exam, a 13% decrease from 2011.• ACT – 13 umpires sat the exam, a 18.75% decrease from last year• NSW – 101 umpires sat the exam, a 5% decrease from last year• NT – 0 umpires sat the exam, a 100% decrease from last year• Qld – 63 umpires sat the exam, a 25.8% decrease from last year• SA – 51 umpires sat the exam, a 9% decrease from last year• Tas – 6 umpires sat the exam, a 70% decrease from last year• Vic – 59 umpires sat the exam, a 12% decrease from last year• WA – 42 umpires sat the exam, a 9.52% increase from last yearThe National Rules Exam uses a database of more than 2,000 questions compiled by Leigh Evans (Vic), with the supportof Graham Bancroft (WA) and Darren Sibraa (Qld).Supplementary umpire examsA supplementary exam was made available for Level 3 umpires and above who could not attend the National RulesExam.SA x 1NSW x 2QLD x 365% pass83% and 87% pass83%, 81% and 79% passGraham Bancroft (WA) has again assisted with specific rules tasks, in particular updating supplementary exams with newrules, online reference exams and proofing the basic exam rule references.The Softball Australia Basic Rules Exam for Levels 1 and 2 umpires was released in May 2010. Umpires can sit the examany time up until 30 April 2012. The Exam provides greater flexibility and an easier pathway for entry level umpires tothe umpiring program.ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WANil 41 7 63 18 20 42 12The process was overseen by Darren Sibraa (Qld), with the support of Jesse Smith (NSW) and Bridget Cameron (Qld).SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 47

UmpiringFive year trendACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WA2008 19 128 4 133 42 28 63 442009 19 150 4 122 46 18 66 462010 7 106 4 98 54 14 62 402011 16 106 2 85 56 20 67 422012 13 103 0 63 51 6 59 46Exam analysisThe NUC again used the analysis spread sheet developed by Matt Gowty (Qld), Softball Australia Hall of Fame memberThe data key was to be used to supply the National Registrar with the ability to update the national database. The datawill identify active and non-active umpires for the currency and accreditation requirements for the ASC. The NUCwould like to acknowledge Darren Sibraa (Qld) for providing support and feedback on technical aspects of the program,Alan McAuliffe (SA), Darrell Shephard (NSW) and Graham Bancroft (WA) for help and support in delivering the technicalstream of the National Umpiring Program.Umpiring resourcesAmanda Houison, UIC Communication, has been responsible for the production and distribution of Blues News Online(BNOL) every month. BNOL has covered both international and national events, from an Australian perspective, andlooking forward, will include more grassroots news items. The umpiring section of the website is constantly beingupdated. The Umpire Honours & Awards page is now available, highlighting our umpires achievements andappointments.Leigh Evans (Vic) Darren Sibraa (Qld) Scott Rindfleish (NSW)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 48

UmpiringUmpiring appointmentsAustralian Championship appointmentsDuring the 2011/2012 Australian Championships, the following umpiring appointments were made:Gilley's Shield and Edebone-WeberShields Round 1Waverley, VictoriaDebbie Grove (Vic) – TCULeigh Evans (Vic) – EIan Frame (Qld) – EKevin Broomhall (Vic) –part-timeBridget Cameron (Qld)Jason Carter (Vic)David Datson (SA)Stacey Loveridge (Vic)Vicki Lansley (NSW)Darrell Paul (NZ)Helen Strauss (Qld)Stuart Tyler (Vic)Steve Wallace-Yarrow (SA)Phil Waller (Vic)Esther Deason Shield AustralianU17 Girls’ ChampionshipHobart, TasmaniaDarren Sibraa (Qld) – TCUAmanda Houison (NSW) – EPhil Waller (Vic) – EJames English (NSW)Leanne Gearside (NSWStephen Gutteridge (Qld)George Norrish (NSW)Kevin Offer ( Vic)Ryan Thorneycroft (Vic)Steve Wallace-Yarrow (SA)Peter Walsh (Qld)Haydyn Wood ( SA)Ron Yardley (Qld)Nox Bailey ShieldAustralian U19 Men'sChampionshipHawker, ACTPatricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCULeigh Evans (Vic) – EDarren Sibraa (Qld) – EDavid Casey (Qld)Mark Gallagher (ACT)Ron Houison (NSW)Trevor Murphy (Vic)Kevin Offer (Vic)Andrew Rindfleish (NSW)Scott Rindfleish (NSW)Jesse Smith (NSW)Mark Toft (Qld)Martin Turnbull (Qld)Phil Waller (Vic)Gilley's Shield and Edebone-WeberShields Round 2Brisbane, QueenslandPatricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCULeigh Evans (Vic) – EDebbie Grove (Vic) – EDavid Casey (Qld)Ian Frame (Qld)Leanne Gearside (NSW)Jay Gibson (NSW)Yvonne Kahler (Qld)Liz Kawana (NZ)Jana McCaskill (Qld)Damien McCauley (SA)Trevor Murphy (Vic)Darren Sibraa (Qld)Howard Watt (NSW)Arthur Allsopp Shield AustralianU17 Boys’ ChampionshipAltona, VictoriaDebbie Grove (Vic) TCURon Houison (NSW) – EDarrel Shephard (NSW) – ERichard Barrow (Vic)David Casey (Qld)Richard Dodds (Vic)Jay Gibson ( NSW)Jamie Harries (QldStacey Loveridge (Vic)Jana McCaskill (Qld)Trevor Murphy (Vic)Chris Trengove (Vic)Stuart Tyler (Vic)Gilley’s Shield FinalBlacktown, NSWDiane Waller (Vic) – TCUKyira Cox (NSW)Ian Frame (Qld)Leanne Gearside (NSW)Amanda Houison (NSW) part-timeRon Houison (NSW) part-timeYvonne Kahler (Qld)Neville Lawrance (SA)Helen Strauss (Qld)Phil Waller (Vic)Gilley's Shield and Edebone-WeberShields Round 3Hawker, ACTPatricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCUIan Frame (Qld) – ERichard Barrow (Vic)Bridget Cameron (Qld)Jason Carter (Vic)Kyira Cox (NSW)Mark Gallagher (ACT)Stephen Gutteridge (Qld)Neville Lawrance (SA)Jana McCaskill (Qld)Glen Nalepa (NZ)Ryan Thorneycroft (Vic)Steve Wallace-Yarrow (SA)Diane Waller (Vic)Elinor McKenzie Shield AustralianU19 Women’s ChampionshipMirrabooka, WADianne Waller (Vic) – TCUIan Frame (Qld) – EAmanda Houison (NSW) – EPeter Baker (WA) – part-timeDavid Datson (SA)Warren Duff (WA)Leanne Gearside (NSW)Yvonne Kahler (Qld)Vicki Lansley (NSW)Neville Lawrance (SA)Norelle Thomas (Qld)Chris Trengove (Vic)Stuart Tyler (Vic)John Reid ShieldAustralian Open Men’sBlacktown, NSWPatricia Sibraa (Qld) – TCULeigh Evans (Vic) – ETrevor Murphy (Vic) – EKevin Broomhall (Vic)Warren Duff (WA)Debbie Grove (Vic)Andrew Rindfleish (NSW)Gavin Shepherd (NZ)Darren Sibraa (Qld)Howard Watt (NSW)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 49

UmpiringInternational umpiring appointments• Leigh Evans (Vic) and Darren Sibraa (Qld) represented Australia on the ISF Standards Committee to review and assistwith the technical presentation and rules, which is an ongoing role with the ISF.• Leigh Evans (Vic) and Kevin Broomhall (Vic) has completed the review of the ISF Four Umpire Rotation System.• Darren Sibraa (Qld) was appointed to umpire at the IV International Men’s Softball Tournament, Parana City,Argentina in September 2011.• Kevin Broomhall (Vic) was appointed to the Australian U19 Men’s Team, Aussie Colts who also toured Argentina.• Leanne Gearside (NSW) was appointed to the 2012 Women’s Open Club Championship, Lower Hutt, New Zealand inMarch 2011.• Trevor Murphy (Vic) was appointed to the 2012 New Zealand Men’s Open Club Championship, Auckland, NewZealand, in March 2011.• Yvonne Kahler and Helen Strauss were appointed to the ISF IX Junior Women’s World Championship in Cape Town,South Africa, in November 2011.• International Softball Challenge – Australia v Japan Women’s Test Series held in Canberra in March 2012. Leigh Evans(Vic) was appointed as the TCU with Howard Watt (NSW), Darrell Shephard (NSW), Phil Waller (Vic), Jason Carter(Vic), Warren Duff (WA) and Alex Turnbull (ACT).• ISF Open Men’s Oceania Qualifier held in Canberra in December 2011. Patricia Sibraa (Qld) acted as the SoftballAustralia Technical Delegate/Competition Manager and Deputy UIC. The TCU for the Qualifier was WayneSaunders (NZ) Oceania UIC, with Leigh Evans (Vic), Debbie Grove (Vic), Darren Sibraa (Qld) and Scott Rindfleish(NSW) as the umpiring crew.• Ron Houison (NSW) was appointed to the 2012 USA World Cup of Softball VII, Oklahoma, USA in June 2012.2011 International Youth Cup appointmentsThe Softball Australia International Youth Cup in July 2011 was staffed by 30 umpires from New South Wales, Victoria,South Australia, Queensland and New Zealand, varying in accreditation from Level 1 to international umpires.Tournament Chief Umpire, Leanne Gearside (NSW), was assisted by Leigh Evans (Vic), Yvonne Kahler (Qld) and KevinTannebring (SA). Video recordings taken during the tournament were used to provide feedback to individual umpires.Seventy games were officiated by 28 umpires,with all games covered using the three man rotation system.StateQldNSWNZSAVicWAUmpireYvonne KahlerAndrew Compton, Matthew Guillaumier, Vicky Armsworth, Jessica Donald-Smith, Ron Houison, BrianHigginbottom, Joe Kelleimeier, Adrian Rampoldi, Myles Lego, Lyn Moncaster, Tony Moncaster, DylanMurdoch, Scott Rindfleish, Sarah Pierson, Thomas Sutomo, Rebecca Taylor, James Townsend, Krissi Travers,John Walker, Brianne Watt, Brooke Whitfield, Todd Winsor, Christiaan ZaiterTony KaiarunaKevin TannebringLeigh EvansSteven GunterSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 50

Umpiring2011 Australian Regional U15 ChampionshipThe 2011 Australian Regional U15 Championship was held at Rockhampton in July 2011. Tournament Chief UmpireAmanda Houison (NSW) was supported by deputies Ian Frame (Qld) and David Casey (Qld) with Brett Atkinson (ACT)and Kevin Offer (Vic) umpire mentors. Development umpires for the program were:ACTNSWQldVicWAIan Dehlsen, Di KroppColin Tutt, Alf Chapman, Rhett Eldred, Dale Kaimoana, Rob McIntosh, Simon RossNeville Baggow, Alan Georg, Janelle Hicks, Kylie Knight, Jesse O’Brien, Gary Wright, Thomas RiversKevin OfferDavid RoperThe two umpire system was used in all round games. The three umpire system was used for the semi-finals, preliminaryfinals and the grand finals.ManagementThe NUC comprises:• Umpires-in-Chief: Patricia Sibraa (Qld) (Operations), Leigh Evans (Vic) (Technical), Debbie Grove (Vic) (Development)and Amanda Houison (NSW), (Communications)• four national umpiring staff: Darren Sibraa (Qld), Kyira Cox (NSW), Bridget Cameron (Qld) and Yvonne Kahler (Qld)• eight State Umpiring Directors: Scott Rindfleish (NSW), Darren Sibraa (Qld), Alex Turnbull (ACT), Richard Barrow (Vic),Wayne Clarke (Tas), Neville Lawrance (SA), Roy Cox (WA) and Cathie Allen (NT)RecognitionCongratulations to Scott Rindfleish (NSW), the winner of the Vivienne Triplett Umpire of the Year for 2011 and AmandaHouison who was appointed Umpire in Chief – Communications in October 2011.Looking forward• Fifteen umpires have applied for advanced training in preparation for the next ISF certification development clinicto be held in New Zealand in 2014• The Umpire Technical and Mechanics Bulletins will be published to the Softball Australia website to ensure that allumpires are aware of all rule changes and umpire mechanics changes• The first draft of the practical Assessors Manual for umpire accreditation advancement from Levels 2-6 has beencompleted and it is envisage the manual will be completed by June 2013SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 51

UmpiringHelen Strauss (Qld) umpiring at the ISF IX Junior Women’s World in South AfricaImage courtesy Matthew HorneSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 52

Technical DelegatesTechnical DelegatesThe role of the SAL Technical Delegates at Australian Championships is to ensure the conduct of the Championship isin accordance with the Softball Australia Championship Regulations and Hosting requirements.The following Technical Delegates were appointed for the 2011/12 Australian Championships:Esther Deason Shield (Tas)Australian U17 Girls' ChampionshipArthur Allsopp Shield (Vic)Australian U17 Boys' ChampionshipElinor McKenzie Shield (WA)Australian U19 Women's ChampionshipNox Bailey Shield (ACT)Australian U19 Men's ChampionshipGilley's Shield and Edebone-Weber Shield R1-R3 (Vic, Qld, ACT)Australian Open Women’s ChampionshipGilley's Shield R4 and FinalsAustralian Open Women’s ChampionshipJohn Reid Shield (NSW) Open Men’s ChampionshipISF Open Men’s Oceania Qualifier (ACT)International Softball Challenge (ACT)Aussie Spirit NZ White Sox Test Series (ACT)International Friendship Series (NSW)U15 Regional ChampionshipsAlan McAuliffe (SA)Leon Leach (Qld)Ken Culpitt (ACT)Leon Leach (Qld)Kylie Bloodworth (Vic)Kylie Bloodworth (Vic)Leon Leach (Qld)Patricia Sibraa (Qld)Margo Koskelainen OAM (Vic)Kylie Bloodworth (Vic)Harvey Milson (NSW)Michael Chard (Softball Australia)Action at the 2012 John Reid Shield at Blacktown International SportsparkImage courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 53

Community ParticipationCommunity ParticipationSoftball Australia is committed to expanding Softball programs in targeted urban, rural and remote areas acrossAustralia.Indigenous Softball ProgramSoftball Australia and our Member States have a longand proud history of promoting and delivering Softballto Indigenous Communities. Our Indigenous SoftballProgram produces positive health and social outcomesby providing female and male Indigenous Australians ofall ages and abilities with opportunities to participatein Softball – as players, coaches, umpires,administrators and volunteers. With Softball generallyrecognised as the preferred sport of Indigenouswomen, and becoming increasingly popular amongstIndigenous men, we are committed to expandingSoftball programs in targeted urban, rural and remoteareas across Australia.The purpose of the program is to increase participationof Indigenous Australians from targeted urban, ruraland remote areas in all facets and levels of Softball by:• embedding Softball as the sport of choice forIndigenous women• positioning Softball as an attractive option forIndigenous men• supporting government health and wider policyobjectives• working with Indigenous communities to help thembecome self-sufficient, so they can continue todevelop and deliver their own events and programs.A bat, painted by Angelina Doolan and a ball, paintedby Kira Briscoe, students from the Worawa AboriginalCollege, Healesville, Victoria, were presented bySoftball Australia Director, Helen Langenberg, toAndrew Leigh Federal Member for Fraser and PhilBorgeaud, Deputy Director, Strategy and Relations,Australian Institute of Sport.2011/12 ISP facts• 7,870 participants involved in Indigenous SoftballProgram activities• 150 Softball Program activities delivered• 150 participants involved in managing Softballprograms and competitions• 160 participants completed coaching/officiatingaccredited training• 100 participants with a disability involved inIndigenous Softball Program activitiesSoftball Australia officially launched the IndigenousSoftball Program Strategy in Canberra on 23 March2012. Dignitaries were treated to an exhibition matchinvolving players from the WhISPers Softball Club andIndigenous players from NSW. Ngunnawal Indigenouselder, Agnes Shea, delivered a welcome to countryspeech, acknowledging the players who participated inthe Exhibition match, and Softball Australia’sIndigenous role models, Stacey Porter, Vanessa Stokesand Jeff Goolagong.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 54

Community ParticipationISP State highlightsSoftball NTIn April, Tania Liddle (Executive Officer, Softball NT), Carrie-Anne Garling (Community Softball Officer, NT), Tim Hatzi(Softball Australia Social Inclusion Coordinator), Raelene Jeffrey (Softball Australia National Community Coach) andTrish Bennett (Softball Australia Community Coaching Program Coordinator) travelled to Hermannsburg andsurrounding communities in the Northern Territory and East Arnhem communities of Yirrkala, Gapuwiyak, Umbakumba,Ramingining, Galiwinku and Milingimbi to deliver the Softball Community Coach Program (SCCP) and Softball Batter Up(SBU) initiatives to more than 1,000 Indigenous community members. Visiting these communities is vital to establishinggood relationships and building rapport and confidence.The SCCP develops a network of capable coaches to deliver a variety of Softball experiences which enhance the healthand social benefits of participants. The program was delivered to more than 30 coaches, providing them with the skillsrequired to deliver programs, such as SBU.Fifteen SBU sessions were held, attracting more than 900 participants. The development of coaches in thesecommunities is imperative to ensure regular participation in Softball, and with their newly developed skills, andenthusiasm of the children, Softball Australia is confident there will be ongoing, regular participation.A highlight of the visit was helping revive women’s Softball in Galiwinku. Since the visit, Evelyna Dhamarrandji from theEast Arnhem Shire Council, took the lead and helped reform the Galiwinku women’s Softball team. The teamcompleted training sessions to prepare for competition against Milingimbi and other community teams. Teamscompeting in community competitions were invited to participate in the NT Softball Championships held in Darwin.Wanamyn Fireballs from Timber Creek at the NT ChampionshipsSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 55

Community ParticipationSoftball WAAs a result of the Softball WA’s strong partnership withthe Western Desert community, Softball WA invited ateam from Western Desert Team to attend the ElinorMcKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women’sChampionship in Perth in January 2012.Through the generosity of Newcrest Mining andSoftball WA covering travel and accommodation costsrespectively, the team, coached by Aussie Spiritcaptain and Indigenous role model, Stacey Porter,participated in two exhibition matches against aWestern Australian All Stars team.To coincide with the Western Desert Team visit,Softball Australia arranged for Aussie Spirit Captain andIndigenous role model, Stacey Porter, to attend andwork with the team. The team also attended a 2 hourskill development clinic presented by Stacey andSoftball Australia National Community Coaches JennyCassidy and Raelene Jeffrey which included batting,pitching and fielding drills.The following day, the team, coached by Stacey,participated in two exhibition matches against aWestern Australian All Stars team.Softball SASoftball SA, in partnership with the South AustralianNational Football League (SANFL) delivered a Level 1Umpire Accreditation Course in April in the AnanguPitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara Lands (APY Lands) to 13Indigenous women aged 21-30 years of age. All 13women successfully completed the course and havebecome accredited umpires. On a separate visit to theAPY Lands in June, Softball SA and SANFL launched thenew Far North West Sports League (FNWSL) Level 1Coach Accreditation Program. This was delivered tofive females, with one of the participants successfullycompleting all components of the course and receivingLevel 1 accreditation.Softball SA is in contact with a number of otherregional offices that have shown an interest indeveloping a similar program.Softball for all abilitiesSoftball Australia has partnered with Special OlympicsAustralia, Special Olympics Victoria and SoftballVictoria to provide coach development opportunitiesfor over 15 Special Schools in Victoria’s Metropolitan,Southern and Eastern Regions.Looking forward, Softball Australia will deliver aSoftball Community Coaching Program to more than30 teachers. Teachers will learn how to develop alesson, learn a range of new Softball activities and howto deliver them using the game-based coachingphilosophy. It is anticipated that the teachers willadopt these methods for their school’s Term 4 Softballprogram to be delivered in November 2012, which willlead to the delivery of further Softball programs forpeople of all abilities and foster links to local clubprograms and competitions.ResourcesIndigenous Softball Program BookAn Indigenous Softball Program Book was developedand is being used to inform key stakeholders of thework Softball is doing with Indigenous communitiesacross Australia. To view the publication, go tohttp://www.softball.org.au/_uploads/res/1_66627.pdf.The FNWSL, formed on the APY Lands in the far NorthWest corner of the state, continues to pave the wayfor other communities around South Australia toestablish their own Leagues. The League has grownfrom eight teams in both football and Softball to ninefor the 2012 Premiership season. Tjurma, made up ofthe homelands surrounding Amata, will enter thecompetition as the first additional team since the startof the FNWSL in 2007.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 56

Community ParticipationSpecial Olympics AustraliaSpecial Olympics Australia is a national, not-for-profit organisation serving approximately 4,500 people with anintellectual disability, in 250 sports clubs across Australia. Softball is one of 13 sports offered to athletes of varyingabilities, from community to international level.Special Olympics World Summer Games, Athens 2011At the Special Olympics World Summer Games in Athens (25 June – 5 July 2011), Australia was again represented in theSoftball competition, defending their 2007 Gold Medal. A team of 13 extremely talented, hardworking and dedicatedplayers lived up to the Games slogan ‘I am in’, with each match being tightly contested. The Australian team played inDivision 1, pitting them against tough opposition from the Dominican Republic and Canada BC. Our team came awaywith a bronze medal, with the gold medal won by the Dominican Republic.Special Olympics Softball Program 2011/12Special Olympics Australia delivered a number of Softball programs and slowpitch competitions nationally for peoplewith an intellectual disability throughout the year, resulting in:• 140 Softball participants registered• 5 state-level games and the World Summer Games• 45 coaches, umpires, scorers involved• seasonal training and inter-club competitions (mainly with local mainstream clubs)Culturally and Linguistically DiverseSoftball Australia, in partnership with Softball NSW and Georges River Softball Association, developed a pilot programaimed to develop relationships with Arabic speaking communities in Bankstown, NSW.Looking forward, a Softball Community Coaching Program will be delivered to the community, providing them withappropriate skills and knowledge that can be used to deliver community-based Softball events and programs to engagemore Arabic speaking communities to the sport of Softball.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 57

Softball Community Coaching ProgramSoftball Community Coaching ProgramThe program is not designed to promote winning or technique but rather identify and support coaches through a wellconstructedlearning framework.The Softball Community Coaching Program (SCCP) is aSoftball Australia initiative funded through theAustralian Sports Commission to provide coaches withthe appropriate information, and coaching support todeliver a Game Sense approach with a focus onparticipation and engagement.The SCCP aims to develop a network of capablecoaches who can deliver a variety of Softballexperiences which enhance the health and socialbenefits of participants. The program is not designed topromote winning or technique but rather identify andsupport coaches through a well-constructed learningframework.The objective of the SCCP is to build a coachingworkforce with the appropriate skills and training todeliver community based Softball events and programs,such as:• Softball Batter Up• Indigenous Softball Program• Culturally and Linguistically Diverse• Disability Softball ProgramParticipants taking part in the SCCP become activelyinvolved in delivering activities. Each activity is thenfollowed by group discussion about how the activitycould be modified to make it easier or harder to suittheir particular group.As well as the Game Sense approach, the SCCPintroduces participants to two other key elements:• Discrete coaching• The CHANGE IT principleDiscrete Coaching allows activities to continue wherepossible, ensuring the activity remains engaging for allparticipants. The coach can discretely provide tips andcontinue to create an encouraging and supportiveenvironment, which will build individual playerconfidence and self-esteem.Coaches ask the participant questions about how theythink the games can be modified to make them easieror harder. This can encourage participants to engage increative thinking and problem solving.CHANGE ITOne of the most challenging issues for a coach isdealing with multi-age groups and/or a wide range ofabilities while still providing fun, safe and engagingactivities. The SCCP provides coaches with a tool thatcan achieve this – CHANGE IT. All activities in theprogram can be made easier or harder to suit theparticipant.Softball Australia SCCP teamThe SCCP team consists of:• Trisha Bennett, Softball Australia’s NationalCommunity Coaching Coordinator• Brooke Wilkins (Qld), National Community Coachfor NSW and ACTBrooke is a former Development Officer, SoftballAustralia Hall of Fame member and Olympian.• Bob Crudgington (Qld), ConsultantBob is a former Softball Australia National OpenWomen’s Head Coach, High Performance Managerand Softball Australia Hall of Fame member.Softball Australia thanks Brooke and Bob for theirassistance in developing quality resources to enabledelivery of the program. Thanks also to SoftballAustralia National Community Coaches, Jenny Cassidyand Joanne Paez who assist with implementing theprogram.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 58

Softball Community Coaching ProgramDelivery of pilot programsBrooke delivered four pilot programs to over 50 participants in the ACT, Qld and NSW.Feedback from the pilot programs has been incorporated into all the resources, which include:• Participants Guide• Activity Cards• USB wristband containing electronic resources including video clips and explanations of activitiesBrooke and Bob have been instrumental in the development of the SCCP and Brooke with the delivery of the pilotprograms.Moving forwardIn the next financial year, Softball Australia will:• implement SCCP in each Member State• develop and release the website• train 500 participants• develop additional Activity CardsSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 59

Softball Batter UpSoftball Batter UpSoftball Batter Up introduces participants to the fundamental skills of softball through a variety of activities and gamesdesigned to developed physical fitness, social skills and an understanding of the game.Softball Batter Up (SBU) is a Softball Australia nationaljunior participation program designed to introduce girlsand boys aged 4 to 12, to the game of Softball. SBUencourages fun and social interaction, where everyoneand anyone can participate. The program offersparticipants a variety of modified games and activities,with the focus on fun and enjoyment, skilldevelopment and continued participation.A number of successful programs were conductedthroughout the year, particularly in Victoria. During2011-12, Softball Victoria successfully piloted SBU in anumber of metropolitan and rural associations with 717participants attending. The programs were delivered invarious flexible formats to ensure the needs of theparticipants and the providers were met.• pre-season training as an introduction to SBU• Saturday mornings ‘in season’ as an introduction toTee Ball• Holiday Programs• Come ‘n’ Try Days• clinic or tabloid activities• Kids Zone – an event-based programSoftball NT also commenced their roll out in the formof clinics, with a total of 690 participants from remotecommunities attending. Softball Australia has beenrunning the SBU program as a core component of theIndigenous Softball Program this year, increasing thenumber of SBU participants.These formats included:In total the breakdown of participants (by state) through the various forms of SBU was:StateNumbersACT 50New South Wales 50Northern Territory 690Victoria 717Western Australia 70SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 60

Softball Batter UpSoftball Australia sought extensive feedback from the deliverers of the programs and their feedback has beenincorporated into the updated SBU resources. Feedback from providers who have participated in the program has beenextremely positive. They have recognised the great potential of the program and the ability it has to enhance thedevelopment and retention of our juniors into the future at the grassroots level. As a result, Softball Australia isconfident that the SBU program is now ready for a successful national rollout.We have also been working to ensure the program will be flexible enough to meet state and association needs.Equipment purchase for participants is now optional and will provide a less expensive entry point into the program.Providers have also been offered a greater degree of flexibility in relation to purchasing equipment to run theirprograms. This will enhance ability to successfully roll out the program to associations and clubs in the remaining statesand in the lead up to the 2013 summer season.SBU websiteThe SBU website, originally launched in 2011, was redesigned in May 2012. Thenew website:• enables both participants and providers to register online• provides a dedicated areA where providers can post up-to-dateinformation about their current and future SBU programs and other itemsof interest• includes more interactive games and puzzles in the Kids section• includes a new section for coaches, offering a wide range of coachingresourcesSoftball Batter Up launch in VictoriaSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 61

Softball Batter UpA new feature in 2012 will be the ‘Batter’s Box’ where children can post photos and other items of interest to share. Formore information, visit the Softball Batter Up website at www.softballbatterup.com.auKids ZoneA new feature of the SBU program is the development of the SBU Kids Zone. Kids Zone is an event-based stream of SBUto enhance participation, designed to be delivered as a one-off special event at no cost to participants. Throughout theyear, Softball Australia delivered four Kids Zones at national and international events including:• Gilley’s Shield, Canberra, January• Elinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women, Perth, January• John Reid Shield and Gilley’s Shield, Sydney, February• International Softball Challenge, Canberra, MarchIn 2013, Softball Australia envisages that Kids Zones will be part of all national events, creating a fun, carnival-likeatmosphere.ResourcesOur next major focus will be the development of resources to deliver SBU within the school environment and duringAASC. These resources are being developed as an extension of the association and club resources. Softball Australiarecognises that there is already a strong connection between clubs and schools and that SBU can be used as a strategyto convert school participants into club and association registrations.Looking forwardSoftball Australia will also be continuing to work in two other important areas that will further enhance the delivery ofSBU. The Softball Community Coaching Program will provide the perfect platform to deliver Indigenous Softball andSpecial Olympics programs.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 62

CRM Project UpdateCRM Project UpdateIn February 2011, Softball Australia commenced a comprehensive review of the association and club websites,addressing a number of challenges which had arisen following the launch of the national website in May 2010.The new look association and club website was released in December 2011. It provides administrators with a more userfriendlyand flexible environment, including:• Results, events and news displayed more prominently in a tabular format, centred on the home page• The option to choose which association news to display (for clubs affiliated with more than one association)• User-friendly display of menu headings• Customisation of the banner, background and colours• Optional free content areas for text and images• Interchangeable free content area are with promotional buttonsThe following table provides a breakdown of website use, identifying the number and percentage of active websites(new template) and regularly updated websites:ACT NSW NT Qld SA Tas Vic WAInactive 10 47 0 37 12 13 26 37New template 2 43 1 27 17 3 25 5Old template 7 56 5 57 9 2 30 15Regularly updated 7 29 0 10 13 0 15 2Total active 13 99 6 84 26 5 55 20% Active 56% 68% 100% 69% 68% 28% 68% 35%% New template* 15% 43% 16% 32% 65% 60% 45% 25%% Regularly updated** 54% 29% 0% 12% 50% 0% 27% 10%*Percentage of total active websites on the new template** Regularly updated means new content generated in the last 1 month for associations and 2 months for clubsNational Membership DatabaseWebsite administrators have assisted throughout the year with testing the functionality of the database and providinginvaluable feedback. The database will provide our administrators with the ability to organise, store and retrieveinformation as efficiently and effectively as possible, including the ability to:• Search for, and automatically merge duplicate members• Run standard reports (members by age/gender, recently registered members, member registration on a month bymonth comparison)• Create reports using specific fields/criteria• Automatically re-register existing membersMoving forwardInterfuse, our CRM System provider, recently upgraded the fusesport system to a more generic, modern format. Thenew look will be available when all remaining, and upgraded, Modules are released in 2013.SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 63

TeamsTeamsAustralian Open Men’s TeamAussie Steelers22 September – 2 October 2011IV International Men’s Championship, Parana, ArgentinaAustralian Open Men’s TeamAussie Steelers7-8 December 2011International Softball Federation Qualifier, CanberraCameron Bint (NSW)Andrew Blackshaw (Qld)Evan Byrne (ACT)Josh Davison (Qld)Neil Delpero (Vic)David Edwards (Vic)Drew Faulkner (Vic)Shaun Goffer (Qld)Mark Harris (WA)Andrew Havercroft (WA)Adam Humble (WA)Nathan Jones (WA)Kris Kiefel (Vic)Scott Patterson (WA)Jamie Sheehan (NSW)Lewis Weldon (Vic)ReservesDamien Nairm (Qld)Team OfficialsHead Coach – Bob Harrow (ACT)Assistant Coach – Battery – Loran Algar (Qld)Assistant Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld)Assistant Coach – Darrin Hebditch (ACT)Team Manager – Michael Titheradge (WA)Physiotherapist – Bernie Simai (Vic)Statistician – Helen Edwards (Vic)Umpire – Darren Sibraa (Qld)William Bailey (Qld)Andrew Blackshaw (Qld)Evan Byrne (ACT)Drew Faulkner (Vic)Adam Folkard (ACT)Michael Gibson (ACT)Joel Goodall (Vic)Jeff Goolagong (ACT)Mark Harris (WA)Andrew Havercroft (WA)Nathan Jones (WA)Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT)Scott Patterson (WA)Nick Shailes (Qld)Jamie Sheehan (NSW)James Todhunter (NSW)Lewis Weldon (Vic)Zenon Winters (ACT)Team OfficialsHead Coach – Bob Harrow (ACT)Assistant Coach – Battery – Loran Algar (Qld)Assistant Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld)Assistant Coach – Darrin Hebditch (ACT)Physiotherapist – Bernie Simai (Vic)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 64

TeamsAustralian Open Men’s SquadAussie SteelersMarch 2012William Bailey (Qld)Cameron Bint (NSW)Andrew Blackshaw (Qld)Evan Byrne (ACT)Tim Crome (ACT)Neal Delpero (WA)David Edwards (Vic)Drew Faulkner (Vic)Adam Folkard (ACT)Michael Gibson (ACT)Shaun Goffer (Qld)Joel Goodall (Vic)Jeff Goolagong (ACT)Mark Harris (WA)Andrew Havercroft (WA)Adam Humble (WA)Julian Jemmott (Qld)Nathan Jones (WA)Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT)Matt Norton (ACT)Nick Norton (ACT)Brendan O’Byrne (WA)Scott Patterson (WA)Brad Riley (ACT)Nick Shailes (Qld)Jamie Sheehan (NSW)Michael Tanner (ACT)James Todhunter (NSW)Lewis Weldon (Vic)Zenon Winters (ACT)ReservesAaron Boccardo (WA)Ryan Tranter (NSW)Open Men’s SquadJune 2012Andrew Blackshaw (Qld)William Bailey (Qld)Cameron Bint (NSW)Aaron Boccardo (WA)Mitchell Brownlow (NSW)Evan Byrne (ACT)Guy Covacin (Qld)Neil Delpero (WA)David Edwards (Vic)Drew Faulkner (Vic)Adam Folkard (ACT)Michael Gibson (ACT)Joel Goodall (Vic)Jeff Goolagong (ACT)Mark Harris (WA)Andrew Havercroft (WA)Adam Humble (WA)Julian Jemmott (Qld)Andrew Kirkpatrick (ACT)Nick Norton (ACT)Brendan O’Byrne (WA)Scott Patterson (WA)Nick Shailes (Qld)Jamie Sheehan (NSW)Michael Tanner (ACT)James Todhunter (NSW)Ryan Tranter (NSW)Lewis Weldon (Vic)Zenon Winters (ACT)ReservesTimothy Crome (ACT)Shaun Goffer (Qld)Nathan Jones (WA)Kris Kiefel (Vic)Subject to FitnessGuy Covacin (Qld)Kris Kiefel (Vic)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 65

TeamsAustralian Open Women’s TeamAussie Spirit2012 Test Series: New Zealand WhitesoxHawker, ACT 7- 8 January 2012Australian Open Women’s SquadAussie SpiritJanuary-July 2012Danielle Bouman (Qld)Jodie Bowering (Qld)Chermai Clews (WA)Michelle Cox (NSW)Clare Currie (ACT)Leigh Godfrey (WA)Sandra Holden (Qld)Christina Kreppold (WA)Stacey McManus (NSW)Kara Murphy (NSW)Aimee Murch (ACT)Vanessa Stokes (SA)Marina Walker (Vic)Clare Warwick (ACT)Melinda Weaver (Qld)Belinda White (SA)Team OfficialsHead Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld)Assistant Coach – Kelly Hardie (Qld)Assistant Coach – Kerrie Porter (NSW)Team Manager – Chris Clough (NSW)Physiotherapist – Michael Oostryck (WA)Statistician – Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)Danielle Bouman (Qld)Jodie Bowering (Qld)Karina Cannon (NSW)Chermai Clews (NSW)Michelle Cox (NSW)Clare Currie (ACT)Brenda De Blaes (ACT)Chelsea Forkin (WA)Leigh Godfrey (WA)Sandra Holden (Qld)Christina Kreppold (WA)Verity Long-Droppert (WA)Zara Mee (NSW)Jocelyn McCallum (Qld)Stacey McManus (NSW)Monique Miller (NSW)Aimee Murch (ACT)Kara Murphy (NSW)Kaia Parnaby (NSW)Stacey Porter (NSW)Justine Smethurst (Vic)Kate Sternes (Qld)Jodie Stevenson (WA)Vanessa Stokes (SA)Kym Tollenaere (Vic)Lana Tye (NSW)Jade Wall (Qld)Clare Warwick (ACT)Melinda Weaver (Qld)Belinda White (SA)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 66

TeamsAustralian Open Women’s SquadAussie SpiritInternational Softball Challenge (Japan InternationalSeries)Hawker, ACT21-24 March 2012Jodie Bowering (Qld)Michelle Cox (NSW)Brenda De Blaes (ACT)Chelsea Forkin (WA)Leigh Godfrey (WA)Sandra Holden (Qld)Verity Long-Droppert (WA)Jocelyn McCallum (Qld)Stacey McManus (NSW)Aimee Murch (ACT)Kaia Parnaby (NSW)Stacey Porter (NSW)Justine Smethurst (Vic)Jodie Stevenson (WA)Vanessa Stokes (SA)Kym Tollenaere (Vic)Clare Warwick (ACT)Jade Wall (Qld)Melinda Weaver (Qld)Belinda White (SA)ReserveChristina Kreppold (WA)Australian Open Women’s TeamAussie Spirit2012 XIII ISF Open Women's World ChampionshipWhitehorse, Canada13-22 July 2012Jodie Bowering (Qld)Michelle Cox (NSW)Brenda De Blaes (ACT)Chelsea Forkin (WA)Leigh Godfrey (WA)Verity Long-Droppert (WA)Stacey McManus (NSW)Zara Mee (NSW)Aimee Murch (ACT)Kaia Parnaby (NSW)Stacey Porter (NSW)Justine Smethurst (Vic)Jodie Stevenson (WA)Vanessa Stokes (SA)Clare Warwick (ACT)Melinda Weaver (Qld)Belinda White (SA)ReservesGeorgia Casey (NSW)Clare Currie (ACT)Sandra Holden (Qld)Christina Kreppold (WA)Jocelyn McCallum (Qld)Team OfficialsHead Coach – Kere Johanson (Qld)Assistant Coach – Kelly Hardie (Qld)Assistant Coach – Kerrie Porter (NSW)Assistant Coach – Sarah Lockett (resides USA)Team Manger – Chris Clough (NSW)Physiotherapist – Michael Oostryck (WA)Statistician – Mary Walkinshaw (Vic)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 67

TeamsAIS Women’s ScholarshipsDecember 2011- 31 July 2012Jodie Bowering (Qld)Karina Cannon (NSW)Clare Currie (ACT)Brenda De Blaes (ACT)Chelsea Forkin (WA)Leigh Godfrey (WA)Christina Kreppold (WA)Verity Long-Droppert (WA)Jocelyn McCallum (Qld)Stacey McManus (NSW)Monique Miller (NSW)Aimee Murch (ACT)Kara Murphy (NSW)Stacey Porter (NSW)Justine Smethurst (Vic)Carmelle Sorensen (Qld)Kate Sternes (Qld)Jodie Stevenson (WA)Kym Tollenaere (Vic)Lana Tye (NSW)Marina Walker (Vic)Jade Wall (Qld)Clare Warwick (ACT)Melinda Weaver (Qld)Belinda White (SA)Australian U19 Women’s SquadAussie Pride2012Bianca Abrahams (NSW)Allanah Alvarado (WA)Madeline Cameron (SA)Emily Campbell (ACT)Eva Carless (Qld)Rebecca Chapman (Qld)Jordyn Christensen (NSW)Sian Colee (NSW)Stephanie Curtis (Qld)Karla Davidson (NSW)Annali Dolman (SA)Alice Donohoe (NSW)Brittney Flint (Qld)Mikayla Gregory (Qld)Rachel Higgins (Qld)Beth Hobden (NSW)Rachel Lack (NSW)Jordan Lambert (SA)Lauren Lange (WA)Mikaela Mahony (NSW)Nicola Maitland NSW)Julia McCann (NSW)Jessica Meyer (NSW)Tahli Moore (NSW)Holley Onley (WA)Jayme Reddacliff (Qld)Stephanie Trczinski (SA)Taylah Tsitsikronis (NSW)Jacinta Williams (ACT)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 68

TeamsAustralian U19 Men’s TeamAussie Colts22 September – 2 October 2011Tour of Argentina in lead up to the 2012 ISF IX JuniorMen’s World ChampionshipJason Cronan (NSW)Sam Daff (Qld)Mitchell Daly (Qld)Nathan Dickinson (NSW)Leigh Halpin (NSW)Jeremy Jemmott (Qld)Kayne Kajan (NSW)Marshall Kronk (Qld)Christopher McClure (NSW)Ryan Merriman (Qld)Jayson Morgan (Qld)Liam O’Leary (NSW)Patrick Schipp (NSW)Ryan Sinclair (Vic)Jesse Taws (ACT)Joshua Wagner (Qld)Jonathan Wall (Qld)Team OfficialsHead Coach – John Neilsen (NSW)Assistant Coach – Sandra Evans (Vic)Assistant Coach – Murray Rivers (Qld)Assistant Coach – Vicki Bingley (ACT)Team Manager – Jodie Sheehan (NSW)Osteotherapist – Andrew Evans (Vic)Statistician – Sarah Thompson (NSW)Umpire – Kevin Broomhall (Vic)Australian U19 Men’s TeamAussie Colts1 – 10 November 2012ISF IX Junior Men’s World Championship, Parana,ArgentinaNathan Dickinson (NSW)Scott Jansen (Vic)Jeremy Jemmott (Qld)Kayne Kajan (NSW)Sam Kassianou (Vic)Marshall Kronk (Qld)Kieran O’Leary (NSW)Liam O’Leary (NSW)Nick O’Shea (Vic)Mason Rossi (NSW)Patrick Schipp (NSW)Ryan Sinclair (Vic)Jesse Taws (ACT)Joshua Wagner (Qld)Aaron Whitefield (Qld)Matthew Wickham* (ACT) (replaced McClure July 2012)Jack Hayes (Vic)*Christopher McClure (NSW) (withdrew July 2012)ReservesMitchell Daly (Qld)Jamee Jones (WA)Tom Noble (NSW)Team OfficialsHead Coach – Gary Butler (WA)Assistant Coach – Wess Frances (SA)Assistant Coach – Adam Sheehan (NSW)Specialist Coach – Sandra Evans (Vic)Team Manager – Maxine Cleary (Qld)Statistician – Lindy Rattigan (SA)Physiotherapist – Rowena Toppenberg (Qld)Umpire – Kevin Broomhall (Vic)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 69

TeamsAustralian U19 Men’s SquadAussie ColtsSelected for the John Reid Shield, Australian OpenMen’s Championship14-18 February 2012, Blacktown InternationalSportspark, SydneyJason Cronan (NSW)Nathan Dickinson (NSW)Jack Hayes (Vic)Scott Jansen (Vic)Jeremy Jemmott (Qld)Kayne Kajan (NSW)Sam Kassianou (Vic)Marshall Kronk (Qld)Christopher McClure (NSW)Tom Noble (NSW)Liam O’Leary (NSW)Nick O’Shea (Vic)Patrick Schipp (NSW)Ryan Sinclair (Vic)Jesse Taws (ACT)Joshua Wagner (Qld)Matthew Wickham (ACT)Australian U19 Men’s SquadAussie ColtsJanuary 2012Jason Cronan (NSW)Mitchell Daly (Qld)Nathan Dickinson (NSW)Jack Hayes (Vic)Scott Jansen (Vic)Jeremy Jemmott (Qld)James Jones (WA)Kayne Kajan (NSW)Sam Kassianou (Vic)Marshall Kronk (Qld)Christopher McClure (NSW)Tom Noble (NSW)Kieran O’Leary (NSW)Liam O’Leary (NSW)Nick O’Shea (Vic)Mason Rossi (NSW)Patrick Schipp (NSW)Ryan Sinclair (Vic)Jesse Taws (ACT)Joshua Wagner (Qld)Aaron Whitefield (Qld)Matthew Wickham (ACT)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 70

TeamsAussie U17 Boy’s Squad8-14 January 2012At the completion of the Arthur Allsopp Shield, these players were selected in U17 Boy’s Squad to play at InternationalYouth Cup, 2-6 July 2012.Callum Beashel (NSW)Colton Brockhurst (Qld)Steven Dawson (Vic)Matt Dean (SA)Ayden Gough (NSW)Dean Halsey (Qld)Ben Jager (ACT)Brent James (Vic)Christopher Kacin (Qld)Jaymon King (Qld)Jayden Lach (NSW)Maclaine Lowe (NSW)Ben Lucas (SA)Hayden Masson (Vic)Hayden Matthews (NSW)David McCaskie (ACT)Josh McGovern (ACT)Jack Noble (NSW)Stuart Perry (NSW)Jarrod Polzin (Qld)Tyrell Priestley (Qld)James Purcell (Qld)Michael Robar (NSW)Izack Rossi (NSW)Cameron Short (Vic)Matthew Speirs (Vic)Samuel Spooner (NSW)Adrian Taylor (Qld)Adam Talarico (Vic)Lachlan Webb (SA)Matthew Wickham (ACT)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 71

International ResultsInternational ResultsAustralian AIS Squad v New Zealand Whitesox Test SeriesMirrabooka, WA7-8 January 2012GamesAustralian AIS Squad 9 v NZ Whitesox 1Australian AIS Squad 11 v NZ Whitesox 4Australian AIS Squad 8 V NZ Whitesox 0Image courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 72

International ResultsInternational Challenge SeriesHawker, ACT21-24 March 2012GamesAussie Spirit 2 v Japan 3Aussie Spirit 3 v Japan 5Aussie Spirit 7 v Japan 10Aussie Spirit 4 v Japan 7Aussie Spirit 5 v Japan 3Aussie Spirit 1 v Japan 7Aussie Spirit 6 v Japan 5AwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterAward winnersStacey Porter (Aussie Spirit)Yamato Fujita (Japan)Misato Kawano (Japan)ISF Oceania Men’s QualifierHawker, ACT6-7 December 2011GamesTanifa Samoa 8 v PNG Langarons 1Aussie Steelers 8 V PNG Langarons 0Aussie Steelers 12 V Tanifa Samoa 4PNG Langarons 0 V Tanifa Samoa 12Tanifa Samoa Aussie Steelers 12PNG Langarons Aussie Steelers 17Aussie Steelers Head Coach, Bob Harrow, congratulates the PNG teamImage courtesy SportographsSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 73

International ResultsArgentina ChallengeParaná, ArgentinaOpen Men22-25 September 2011Games1 Argentina2 Australia3 Parana4 Bblanca22 September – 2 October 2011Games1 Australia2 Argentina3 Parana4 Combined ArgentinaU19 Men22-25 September 2011Games1 Argentina2 Australia3 Parana4 Rcheca22 September – 2 October 2011Games1 Australia2 Parana3 Argentina4 RchecaSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 74

International Results2011 IX Junior Women’s World ChampionshipCape Town, South Africa7-17 December 2011Final placingsResults for Australia1 United States Australia 9 v Russia 12 Japan Australia 3 v Brazil 03 Chinese Taipei Australia 2 v Japan 74 Australia Australia 10 v Germany 05 Canada Australia 7 v Zimbabwe 06 New Zealand Australia 9 v Chinese Taipei 47 Brazil Australia 7 v Argentina 08 China9 Czech Republic10 Puerto Rico Playoffs11 Argentina12 Russia Australia 4 v USA 713 South Africa Australia 7 v New Zealand 014 Germany Australia 2 v Chinese Taipei 315 Botswana16 ZimbabweMegan Horne bats for Aussie Pride against RussiaImage courtesy Matthew HorneSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 75

Australian Championship ResultsAustralian Championship ResultsEdebone–Weber Shield FinalHawker, ACT4-7 January 2012Final placingsFinal results1 NSW Firestars NSW Firestars 7 v Western Australia Flames 32 Western Australia Flames3 ACT Diamonds4 Qld Heat5 Victorian Titans6 NZ White Sox7 SA StarzAwardsMost Valuable PlayersAward winnersChelsea Forkin (WA) and Clare Warwick (ACT)John Reid ShieldBlacktown, NSW13-18 February 2012Final placingsFinal results1 ACT ACT 2 V Western Australia 02 Western Australia3 Queensland4 Victoria5 NSWAwardsMost Valuable PlayersBest PitcherBest BatterRookie of the YearPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersZenon Winters (ACT)Neal Delpero (WA)Zenon Winters (ACTJames Brownlow (NSW)Jeff Goolagong (ACT)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 76

Australian Championship ResultsElinor McKenzie Shield, Australian U19 Women’s ChampionshipMirrabooka, WA15-21 January 2012Final placingsFinal results1 New South Wales NSW Firestars 4 v ACT 02 ACT3 Queensland4 Western Australia5 Victoria6 South Australia7 Northern TerritoryAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersMikaela Mahony (NSW)Brittney Flint (Qld)Rachel Lack (NSW)Julia McCann (NSW)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 77

Australian Championship ResultsNox Bailey Shield, Australian U19 Men’s ChampionshipHawker, ACT15-21 January 2012Final placingsFinal results1 Queensland Queensland 5 v Victoria 42 Victoria3 New South Wales4 ACT5 Western Australia67AwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersKayne Kajan (NSW)Marshall Kronk (Qld)Jesse Taws (ACT)Marshall Kronk (Qld)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 78

Australian Championship ResultsEsther Deason Shield, Australian U17 Girls’ ChampionshipHobart, Tasmania8-14 January 2012Final placingsFinal results1 New South Wales New South Wales 3 v Queensland 12 Queensland3 South Australia4 Western Australia5 ACT6 Victoria7 TasmaniaAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersJordyn Christensen (NSW)Stephanie Trzcinski (SA)Beth Hobden (NSW)Amelia Cudicio (NSW)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 79

Australian Championship ResultsArthur Allsopp Shield, Australian U17 Boys’ ChampionshipAltona, Victoria8-14 January 2012Final placingsFinal results1 New South Wales New South Wales 7 v ACT 02 ACT3 Queensland4 Victoria5 South Australia6 Western AustraliaAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersHayden Mathews (NSW)Adrian Taylor (Qld)Callum Beashel (NSW)Callum Beashel (NSW)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 80

Australian Championship ResultsGilley’s Shield, Australian Open Women’s Championship FinalBlacktown, NSW16-18 February 2012Final placingsFinal results1 NSW Firestars NSW Firestars 2 V ACT Diamonds 12 ACT Diamonds3 Qld Heat4 Western Australia Flames5 SA Starz6 Victorian TitansAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterRookie of the YearPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersBrenda De Blaes (ACT)Sandra Holden (Qld)Chelsea Forkin (WA)Michelle Edgtton (NSW)Bree Brooker (NSW)Image courtesy Donkin Gook PhotographySOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 81

Australian Championship ResultsAustralian U15 Regional ChampionshipRockhampton, Qld6-10 July 2011Final placings – Girls’ DivisionFinal placings – Boys’ Division1 Sydney Metro Blue 1 Sydney Metro Green2 Sydney Metro Green 2 Sydney Metro Blue3 Canberra Gold 3 SQ Regional Academy Storm4 SQ Regional Academy Flames 4 SQ Regional Thunder5 SQ Regional Academy Fire 5 SQ Regional Academy Cyclones6 SQ Regional Academy Flickers 6 Country NSW7 Canberra Blue8 Country NSW9 SEMSAImages courtesy Pro Photo AustraliaSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 82

Other National ResultsOther national resultsInternational Youth CupBlacktown, NSW (Women)4-8 July 2011Final placings1 School Sport Australia2 NSW Metro3 Sunstate Wanderers4 Aussie U17 Girls5 NZ Junior Girls’ Development6 NSW Country7 SE Metro VicAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersTaylah Tsitsikronis (School Sport Australia)Julia McCann (Aussie U17 Girls)Michaela Mahoney (School Sport Australia)Taylah Tsitsikronis (School Sport Australia)International Youth CupBlacktown, NSW (Men)4-8 July 2011Final placings1 Aussie U19 Green2 NZ Junior Boys’ Development3 Western Civil4 Aussie U19 Gold5 ISA New Zealand6 NSW Metro7 Aussie U17 Boys8 NSW CountryAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterPlayer of the Grand FinalAward winnersJesse Taws (Aussie U19 Men’s Green)Marshall Kronk (Aussie U19 Men’s Green)Mitchell Daly (Aussie U19 Men’s Gold)Jason Cronan (Aussie U19 Men’s Green)SOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 83

Other National ResultsInternational Softball ChallengeBlacktown, NSW28-30 July 2011Final placings1 US Colleges2 Australian U19 Women’s Squad3 NSW Blue4 QAS5 NSW RedAwardsMost Valuable PlayerBest PitcherBest BatterAward winnersMikaela Gregory (ASSA)Sandra Holden (QAS)Georgia Casey (NSW)Image courtesy Devan PriceSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 84

Life Members/Hall of FameSoftball Australia Life MembersLife Members are recognised for their exceptional and devoted service to Softball Australia.Name Year StateDarryl Clout 2010 NSWBob Harrow 2010 ACTBill Gobbart 2006 VicKen Culpitt 2004 ACTAlan McAuliffe 2002 SAShirley Schneider 2000 WAPat Rawlings* OAM 1994 NSWMargo Koskelainen OAM 1993 VicRosemary Adey OAM 1989 SAPat Shearwood 1980 ACTEdna Nash* 1969 NSWPat Young* 1968 NSWAudrey McLaughlin AM 1967 QldEsther Deason MBE* 1966 VicMerle Short* 1966 VicMarjorie Dwyer* 1966 Vic*denotes deceasedSoftball Australia Hall of Fame inducteesThe Hall of Fame recognises Australian players and non-players who have made an outstanding contribution to thesport of Softball at the international level.Name Year StateFiona Crawford 2010 NSWPaul Maisey 2010 VicMarissa Warburton 2010 QldKen Culpitt 2009 ACT2009 Australian Open Men’s Team Aussie Steelers andISF World Champions2009Geoffrey Coultas 2008 WABrian Flint 2008 WADarryl Rector 2008 WARobert Richardson 2008 NSWSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 85

Life Members/Hall of FameName Year StateBill Downing 2008 WARussell Taylor 2008 WAJosh Davison 2008 NSWDave McKenzie 2008 WAPeter Clout 2008 NSWSally McCreedy OAM 2008 ACTPeta Edebone 2008 VicBrooke Wilkins 2008 NSWKathy Mitchell 2008 QldJohn McAuliffe 2007 SABob Crudgington 2006 QldMatt Gowty 2006 QldTroy Baverstock 2005 NSWKylie Herbert 2005 NSWAlan McAuliffe 2005 SACarol Peel 2005 NSWHaylea Petrie 2005 QldKim Cooper 2004 QldShane King 2004 QldKerry Dienelt 2004 NTLindsey Carroll 2004 ACTKellie Loughman 2004 VicKerrie Maddern 2004 VicNichole Richardson 2004 VicMargo Koskelainen OAM 2004 VicJoanne Brown 2004 ACTFrancine McRae 2004 QldLindsay Anderson* 2003 WAAnthony Bull 2003 WALaing Harrow 2002 ACTRhonda Wills 2002 VicJenny Holliday 2002 VicJoyce Lester OAM 2000 QldLeanne Evans 1997 VicGaye Ledingham 1997 NSWPat Shearwood 1995 ACTSandra Troyahn 1995 VicArthur Allsopp* 1992 VicRosemary Adey OAM 1991 SAPat Rawlings OAM* 1991 NSWSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 86

Life Members/Hall of FameName Year StateJane Stevens 1990 SALorraine Brown 1989 SAJosephine Loton 1989 VicJanine (Jan) Allsopp 1988 VicCarol Selem 1988 NSWVivienne Triplett* 1988 VicEsther Deason MBE* 1987 VicMarjorie Dwyer* 1987 VicMerilyn Middlin 1987 VicJoanne Paez 1987 VicJudy Phelps OAM 1987 NSWChris Roughley 1987 NSWSybil Turner 1987 NSWRhonda Boyd 1986 VicDenise Hutchinson 1986 Vic1965 Australian Open Women’s Team and ISF WorldChampions1985Norma AllsoppMargaret DoddsBess DornanMyrtle EdwardsRita GherardinElinor McKenzie*Audrey McLaughlinHelena MeehanNina MennerMidge Nelson BEMGladys Phillips* (C)Judy Pizaro*Marjorie ScottMerle Short*Sandra SomervilleMargaret SwannNancy WhittinghamLorraine Woolley*denotes deceasedHall of Fame inducteesVicQldVicVicVicVicQldVicWAVicVicVicVicVicQldVicSAQldSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 87

ISF Hall of Fame InducteesISF Hall of Fame inducteesName Year StateBob Harrow 2011 ACTPaul Maisey 2011 VicPeta Edebone 2011 VicPeter Clout 2009 NSWJohn McAuliffe 2009 SASally McCreedy OAM 2009 ACTNorma Allsopp 2005 VicJoanne Brown 2005 ACTKen Culpitt 2005 QldKerry Dienelt 2005 NTDenise Hutchinson 2005 VicShane King 2005 QldLaing Harrow 2003 ACTMargo Koskelainen OAM 2003 VicAlan McAuliffe 2003 SAJenny Holliday 2001 VicJoyce Lester 2001 QldAudrey McLaughlin AM 1999 QldRosemary Adey OAM 1997 SAJanine (Jan) Allsopp 1993 VicVivienne Triplett* 1993 VicSybill Turner 1993 NSWRhonda Boyd 1991 VicChristine Roughley 1991 NSWMargaret Swann 1989 VicMyrtle Edwards* 1987 VicMerle Short* 1987 VicMarjorie (Midge) Nelson BEM 1981 VicEsther Deason* MBE 1981 Vic*denotes deceasedSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 88

Member StatesMember StatesSoftball ACTt: 02 6278 3000f: 02 6278 3111e: ceo.softballact@bigpond.comw: www.act.softball.org.auSoftball NSWt: 02 9677 4000f: 02 9677 4040e: office@softball.net.auw: www.softball.net.auSoftball NTt: 08 8927 3333f: 08 8927 9999e: softballnt@bigpond.comw: www.nt.softball.org.auSoftball Qldt: 07 3391 2447f: 07 3391 4734e: admin@softballqld.asn.auw: www.qld.softball.org.auSoftball SAt: 08 8353 6766f: 08 8353 2480e: admin@softballsa.com.auw: www.sa.softball.org.auSoftball Tasmaniat: 03 6249 3589f: 03 6249 3589e: softballtas@yahoo.comw: www.tas.softball.org.auSoftball Victoriat: 03 415 1745f: 03 8678 3018e: admin@softballvic.org.auw: www.victoria.softball.org.auSoftball WAt: 08 9349 9911f: 08 9345 3553e: adminsoftallwa@iinet.net.auw: www.wa.softball.org.auSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 89

Partners and SponsorsPartners and sponsorsPrincipal PartnerHigh Performance PartnerIndigenous Softball Program PartnerApparel SponsorOfficial Equipment SupplierSponsorsEbadges Marketworthy Sport Business PartnersFielder’s ChoiceNational Aboriginal SportingChance AcademyTheme ParkMcKenna Hampton Softball Excellence Valiant PressSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 90

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GlossaryGlossaryAASCAISASCBNOLCALDCRMDTEISFISPNEDPNCASNOASNSCNUCNUPSCCPTCSTCUUICActive After school CommunitiesAustralian Institute of SportAustralian Sports CommissionBlues News OnlineCulturally and Linguistically DiverseClient Relationship ManagementDaily Training EnvironmentInternational Softball FederationIndigenous Softball ProgramNational Elite Development ProgramNational Coaching Accreditation SchemeNational Officiating Accreditation SchemeNational Scoring CommitteeNational Umpiring CommitteeNational Umpiring ProgramSoftball Community Coaching ProgramTournament Chief StatisticianTournament Umpire in ChiefUmpire in ChiefSOFTBALL AUSTRALIA ANNUAL REPORT 2012 Page | 92