OUR HISTORY
it was the idea of a few which led to long term success.
The Surfers Paradise Baseball Club was founded in 1987 by John Carpenter, Mitch Wikum and Steve Meeham.
During that year the Club entered three teams in the Brisbane metropolitan competition and in the first season won the A-Grade title. This was achieved through the assistance of ex-Claxton Shield players from other states, as well as other quality players from around the Gold Coast and Brisbane region.
The idea for a junior competition on the Gold Coast, or at least at Surfers Paradise, was initiated by Gary Coward who advertised in the local paper for junior players. With mixed responses from players of all age groups, the competition attracted 60 kids between the ages of 10 and 14 years plus one father – Gary Edwards (Budge). With Gary’s help, the children were split into 5 equal sides, and rolled out a competition on Saturday mornings. The five junior sides – Giants, Dodgers, Dragons, Dolphins and Sharks – attracted great success in the ‘88 to ‘89 season, and by the ‘89 to ‘90 season the number of kids playing baseball at Surfers Paradise had doubled. By the start of the ‘90 to ‘91 season, there was an abundance of young players. In response, the Club instigated the expansion of baseball on the Gold Coast by encouraging the creation of teams where kids lived – including Runaway Bay, Nerang and Palm Beach. The players were split across several Clubs thereby establishing a Gold Coast junior competition. The first junior representative players to come from Surfers Paradise were Brandon Pollard, Trent Durrington, Shane Edwards and Adam Wardrop. All four boys were selected in the QLD U/16’s squad in 1990 with each of them progressing to more senior representative teams over the years including National and Junior selection, as well as Australian Senior team selection for Trent and Brandon. And the tradition of producing talented junior players has continued for Surfers Paradise, who has seen members of the Club achieve State and National representation, as well as professional and overseas signings.
Message from our president
It continues to be a pleasure to lead this great club that has been operating for over 30 years. The success of the founding years of the late 1980’s has continued on and off the diamonds.
We now see the children of our earliest junior members playing baseball at Surfers. It is not unusual to see three generations from more than one family at the club every season.
Our stable membership base, loyal players, parents, and supporters ensures that we maintain our vision of being “A Leading Force in Baseball.” The clubs strong administration and dedicated volunteer base supports our goals, objectives, and values that drive & influence the members actions and strategic plans.
We are the preferred host of baseball events ranging from Baseball Australia training camps, National, State and Regional titles for men, women’s, boys and girls to Masters/Veterans programs and games. Baseball is played year-round, and our player base commits to the club that is open for business 12 months of the year. We feature well in the success of playing in Queensland’s highest level of the game with several championship wins being recorded in both Junior & Senior Divisions of the Sport.
Surfers Paradise Baseball club welcomes visitors, players, and ambassadors of the game from all over the world.
Tony McPhail
Our Mission
Our mission is to build on the strong foundation of a successful family oriented club – rich in history, pride and growth with close links to the community, while continuing to strive for best future facilities. Provide opportunities for enjoyment, be supportive, tolerant, and inclusive of our players, coaches, administrators & volunteers and develop and challenge members to reach their full potential and ultimate goals.
OUR VALUES
RESPECTFUL:
To respect every person and organisation we interact with and in turn to earn the respect of others for all that we do as individuals and as a club.
BE PROUD:
Recognise our history, celebrate our successes, speak positively and behave in a manner that reflects pride in our club and ourselves.
PROFESSIONAL:
To be a professional organisation adhering to high standards reflected by our appearance, actions and attitude. Be willing to do whatever it takes to stay together, achieve team goals and aspire to be successful while always working within the rules.
FUN LOVING:
To enjoy the journey & our time together, help create an atmosphere of fun and happiness, be positive in what we do.
Message from our Head Coach
Surfers Paradise Baseball Club embodies the essence of passion, dedication, and community spirit. As the head coach, I have the privilege of witnessing firsthand the determination and teamwork that defines us as a club. Our players exemplify the true spirit of the game, displaying skill and sportsmanship both on and off the field.
At Surfers Paradise Baseball Club, we’re not just a team; we’re a family. Every member, from our seasoned veterans to our youngest rookies, contributes to our collective success and fosters an atmosphere of encouragement and support. Together, we strive for excellence, pushing each other in our pursuit of development and understanding of the game.
Located in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, our club is more than just a place to play baseball—it’s a cornerstone of the Gold Coast community. We take pride in representing our city with integrity and pride, showcasing the talent and passion that makes us stand out in the region.
Whether you’re a seasoned player looking to refine your skills or a newcomer eager to experience our wonderful game, Surfers Paradise Baseball Club welcomes you with open arms. Join us as we continue to write the next chapter of our storied history, bound together by our love for baseball and our commitment to excellence.”
Kevin Fenn