Thursday, October 30, 2025

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Home Runs & Hard Work

Mackay Men Dominate In Toowoomba

Mackay was proudly represented by two men’s teams at the State Softball Championships in Toowoomba last weekend, with both sides delivering outstanding performances on the diamond.

The B Men’s team, coached by Steven Baxter and Allen James, competed in the Queensland Cup division and impressed with several close games and strong teamwork. Pitcher Cameron Baxter led from the mound with solid form, supported by Emmett Counsell and Graeme Love behind the plate. After a weekend of determined play, the team secured an impressive third place out of 11 teams.

Meanwhile, Mackay’s Open Men’s team, coached by Murray Rivers and John Nash Snr, faced tough conditions after storms delayed play, forcing an early 7am start for the knockout rounds. Despite the setback, the men battled hard — first defeating Toowoomba and then Redlands Green — to earn their place in the grand final against Rockhampton.

With regular catcher Andrew Baxter sidelined due to injury, James Allen stepped up and delivered a stellar performance behind the plate, catching for Liam Potts, who was recently named WSBC Softballer of the Year. In a thrilling finale, Jaxon Maluga smashed an automatic home run with a runner on base, sealing a 2–0 victory for Mackay and the Open Men’s State Championship title. Jaxon was named MVP of the grand final and will travel to Brisbane this weekend for Under-18 Queensland squad training.

Congratulations also go to Riley James and James Allen, who were both selected for the Patriots squad.

A huge well done to all players, coaches, scorers, and managers for representing Mackay with pride and passion.

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