Christmas Message from the CEO
As 2007 draws to an end, and with the festive season now upon us, I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge some of the valuable contributions that have been made to the baseball community throughout what has proven to be a very successful year for Australian Baseball.
I would like to begin by acknowledging the priceless contributions made by our volunteers over the past 12 months - namely the club officials, scorers, umpires and coaching staffs. Your dedication to our sport at the grass roots level has been invaluable towards the development of Baseball in Australia. For this, I thank you.
To all of the players, congratulations on your seasons so far - I look forward to watching the progression in each state as the finals approach in coming months.
I would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the State Associations, their staff and respective Board of Directors, and thank them for their support in 2007. I look forward to working closely with you all in 2008.
A heart-felt thank you to the ABF Board of Directors and Council members who so willingly and unselfishly donate their time to our sport - may you all enjoy a well deserved break this Christmas.
Thank-you also to the staff in the ABF office – you have all worked extremely hard this year and should be proud of your team efforts throughout 2007. Thank you for making the transition into my new role a smooth and enjoyable experience.
A special mention also to the National Coaching staff and Players for all of your hard work and contribution to the national programs this year – your efforts are appreciated.
I would like to make special mention of our national all-of-sport sponsor, IndependentAdvice.com for their unwavered support in 2007, namely Shawn Richards and Peter Wood. Shawn has been a long-term supporter of Australian Baseball – and we thank him for his endeavors towards promoting the game of baseball in Australia.
Thank you also to our Principal Partners - the Australian Sports Commission, Major League Baseball and the Australian Olympic Committee.
I look forward to an eventful couple of months at the commencement of 2008 – with the 2008 IndependentAdvice.com Claxton Shield, National and Regional Youth Championships, as well as the Olympic Qualifiers and the Baseball Australia Diamond Awards all scheduled to take place between December and March. Check out the ABF website for more information on these events.
Until then, I wish you all a very Merry Christmas, a safe and prosperous New Year, and I look forward to catching up with you all in 2008!
Regards,
John May
CEO – Australian Baseball Federation
