How to Start As a Player

[wheezer]

Hi all.

How does a person who wants to play baseball get started?

My situation: I'm 27, male, and just moved to Glenelg. I have played catch for years, long-time fan of MLB and follow the ABL a little bit. I've never batted, never played an actual game and no idea how Baseball SA works.

I can see on the Tigers' website, their Seniors run teams of Div 1-6. What's the standard like? Obviously by Div 1 you're taking the game pretty seriously and maybe working towards a semi-pro career. Would Div 6 be a good environment for me to develop skills and pick up the intricacies of the game? Or maybe it would be better to spend some time working up to Div 6?

Also - is there somewhere around Glenelg where I could get my foot in the door socially and meet some players? Maybe playing some catch on the weekend, batting practice, rec games in the park?

[Journeyman]

I'm not sure what skills you would pick up at d6 level, but you would have fun. Clubs in SA generally are always looking for players, give the secretary a call and see what sort of response you get would be how I would start. Also if Glenelg don't seem to willing to talk call one of the other clubs close to where you live. West Torrens would be okay as well.

[snoopy]

Get yourself a tee, a dozen wiffle balls, a decent second hand bat and start swinging at least 100 a day. I'm serious. Don't feel embarrassed. Then get hold of a decent old and worn glove and get someone to throw with you. If you've played catch you're off to a good start already. Start off maybe 20 metres away from each other and slowly increase the distance. Remember to follow through (an old javelin thrower speaking from experience). Then get the other person to roll (or hit) ground balls. After you've done this for a few weeks approach the local club and take it from there. If they have a winter ball team all the better. Good luck. I started this 10 years ago but then stopped abruptly as before approaching a team when my 12 year old son began throwing so hard I could barely catch it. I was then the one rolling those ground balls. He's now a minor league player. Have fun! You're never too old to start.

[nate]

Hi there guys I'm Brazilian that loves baseball believe if u can but we have a league in brazil, anyways I played for many years baseball back home now I'm seeking to join up a club in Aussie , I live in Sydney ! Could anyone tell me where to go a find an adult team, I have strong baseball skills and would love to go for a trial to show off at least !!

Thanks everyone