As the High Performance Division reflects on the year that has been, we think it is fair to say that 2007 has been a successful year for the Division as a whole.
Ben Foster and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the people who have contributed to the success of the HP team in 2007- in particular our National coaches (Jon Deeble, Phil Dale, Tony Harris, Pat Kelly and Paul Elliott), our support staff (Bruce Rawson, Phil Jauncey and David Nagy) and our Director Geoff Pearce who are always available and willing to assist wherever and wherever possible.
I would like to make special mention of the key events on the HP calendar for 2007 and acknowledge those who contributed to the success of these events:
2007 Claxton Shield - Thank you to Baseball WA for their solid support in hosting the 2007 Claxton Shield - you did a great job. Thank you also to the volunteers who donated their time to ensuring a successful execution of the event. To the fans who turned out to watch the games - it was great to see you, and for the players who made themselves available - you all played an fantastic tournament. Thank you all.
2007 Baseball World Cup - I would like to thank the members of the 2007 Australian Senior Men's Baseball Team for representing us all at the 2007 Baseball World Cup in Taiwan. You displayed phenomenal strength in your games, and as always your team spirit was inspirational. Thank you also to the National Team coaching staff.
2007 MLBAAP - Thank you again to the coaching and support staff for your involvement in staging another successful camp. Special thank-you to Dave Nilsson for heading up the Academy this year, and to Alan Weir for his administrative support. I must also acknowledge the Radisson Resort and to the parents who made the effort to come down and watch the games....thank you.
I would personally like to thank Ben Foster for all of his hard work and support this year - Ben continuously goes above and beyond the call of duty for the HP team and his efforts are commendable. Thanks Ben!!
From the HP team we wish you all a very safe and prosperous Festive season and we look forward to seeing you all in your respective states for the 2008 IndependentAdvice.com Claxton Shield - we will keep you posted on all of the latest updates via the ABF website.
There will be plenty of HP baseball action in 2008 - including the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games - where we hope the Senior Men's National Team will have the opportunity to defend their silver medal and potentially bring home the gold. We look forward to your support in the lead up to this event.
Until next year - be safe and thank you once again for your support in 2007.
Regards,
Brett Pickett
General Manager
Baseball Operations
