After twelve (12) months of planning and program development, the ABF and MLB have successfully developed an entry point program that they are confident will recruit the next generation of baseball players, coaches, umpires, volunteers and fans.

Aussie T-ball will be delivered in both grassroots clubs and schools, and is a modification of the current game of t-ball that has been designed to be delivered in a simplified format consisting of six (6) a side, six (6) inning t-ball games, played for a maximum of sixty (60) minutes; with player positions and batting line-up rotated every inning.

The major objectives for Aussie T-ball are:

• To deliver a national junior entry point program that promotes baseball participation.
• To boost the level of support provided to grassroots clubs through the provision of quality resources and equipment to deliver a strategic junior participation program.
• To provide every primary school aged child in Australia with the opportunity to experience baseball. To provide opportunities for children and parents to participate in physical activity together.
• To utilise the Australian Baseball League as a successful development tool to promote Aussie
• T-Ball and the sport of baseball.

CEO of the Australian Baseball Federation, Mr Brett Pickett, is excited about the potential future growth that Aussie T-ball will bring to the sport of baseball.

"We anticipate that Aussie T-ball will provide a great platform for development amongst grassroots clubs, and will have a significant impact on our sport from a player, coach and fan perspective," Pickett said.

Director of Major League Baseball Australia & Oceania, Mr Tom Nicholson, predicts Aussie T-ball will be fundamental in recruiting and developing the stars of tomorrow.

"Aussie T-ball's marketability will allow the sport to penetrate a new market and recruit new players.

"Major League Baseball is excited about supporting this program, and the possibility of cultivating the next generation of baseball stars", said Nicholson.

For more information on Aussie T-ball, or to become an Aussie T-Ball affiliated club for the 2011/12 season, visit www.aussietball.com.au

Mastered Aussie T-Ball?

Now it’s time to learn to play like a Major Leaguer, join a baseball club and learn to develop your skills! Whether you want to be the next Major League Superstar or simply want to have fun playing with your mates there is a baseball program to suit you. Visit the Baseball Pathways page to find out all the ways you can participate. There are a number of ways for adults to get involved too including:

• Umpiring
• Scoring
• Coaching
• Volunteering