Double play for Indigenous baseball

When thinking about Indigenous participation in sport, baseball isn’t one of the first things to come to mind. Thanks to the efforts of two young men from Belmont that might be about to change.

05 March 2010

Aaron (22) and Michael (19) Fitzgerald currently play AAA (reserves) and Under 19s grade baseball for South Perth Baseball Club and couldn’t imagine a better way to spend their weekend.

"We started playing tee-ball when we were younger and we’ve gone right through, it’s just a great sport," said Aaron.

After seeing the enjoyment his elder brother got out of the game it didn’t take long for Michael to take up the sport.

"He’s been a big role model for me, just being able to watch him and see what he’s been able to do definitely made me want to get into it."

Their father Kevin said he wanted to provide his children with other sporting opportunities outside of Australian Rules Football.

"When I was growing up footy was the only opportunity I had. Baseball has been fantastic, it has given the boys something different to do and the club is a welcoming community," Kevin said.

To-date, Aaron’s biggest highlight was an appearance in a grand final and trip to Singapore as part of his High School baseball team.

At the time of the interview Aaron, a big hitting third baseman, mentioned that it was his goal to play for the Perth Heat. No less than 24 hours later he was informed that he had been selected to be a part of the Perth Heat U/23 squad to tour NSW in April. So he is certainly on his way.

Aaron and Michael hope their efforts will encourage other people with Indigenous backgrounds to get into baseball.

"Most of the time we’re the only one’s out there. It would be good to see a few more Indigenous people out there on the ground," said Michael.

Baseball WA Chairman Evan Stewart echoed their sentiments.

"Baseball hasn't traditionally been a game played by a large number of Indigenous people. Clubs such as South Perth that have embraced young Indigenous athletes have benefited greatly from the experience," Mr Stewart said.

"The athleticism of the Indigenous athletes involved has already seen some breakthrough into state junior teams as role models for the future. With the popularity of the sport continuing to grow in our regions, we hope to increase our involvement with the indigenous community."

If you’re interested in playing baseball then visit www.wa.baseball.com.au to find out more information about joining a club.