Mount Gambier and District Baseball League

Central Div 1 Claims Series Title in Decisive Fashion

In the final game of a hard‑fought three‑game series, Central Div 1 left no doubt, delivering a commanding 17–1 victory to secure the championship. From the very first inning, the offense came alive and never looked back.

Tigers actually struck first, scratching across a run in the top of the first on a well‑placed ball that led to an error. But that early spark was quickly answered—and then some.

Central flipped the script in the bottom of the first, erupting for eight runs on five hits. The big blow came off the bat of Colby Muller, who delivered a two‑run single that energized the entire dugout. The onslaught continued in the second inning, where Central added five more runs. Josh Chuck started things with a double, Kyall McClean followed with a two‑run single, and a pair of errors helped push across additional runs. By the time the inning ended, the game was firmly in Central’s control.

McClean was the engine of the offense all day. The leadoff hitter collected four hits in five at‑bats, driving in five runs with a combination of timely singles and a triple. Chuck added two hits of his own, and the team showed excellent discipline at the plate, drawing six walks—Dylan Gull leading the way with two.

On the mound, Gull was nothing short of dominant. He went the distance, tossing seven strong innings while allowing just five hits and one unearned run. He struck out seven and walked only one, keeping Tigers’ hitters off balance from start to finish.

For Tigers, Joseph Sims came on in relief and provided five innings of work, striking out five and showing plenty of fight on the mound. Matt Thompson, Toby McKinnon, Riley Rolph, Jai Hillstone, and Alex Reppin each collected hits, ensuring the offense continued to compete throughout.

The game was a fitting conclusion to a thrilling series. Central’s explosive early innings, combined with a masterful pitching performance and a disciplined approach at the plate, proved to be the winning formula. A dominant performance to close out the series and claim the championship.

Central Div 1 Evens the Series Behind Complete‑Team Effort

Game 2 of the finals series saw Central Div 1 bounce back in a big way, using a balanced offensive attack and a stellar pitching performance to defeat Tigers Div 1, 8–4. With the win, Central squared the series and set up a deciding showdown.

Tigers came out swinging early. In the top of the first, they manufactured three runs—a fielder’s choice brought one home, and a sharp piece of defense turned into an opportunistic two‑run error. Then, in the third, Karl Ransom extended the lead with a double to center, making it 4–1. It looked like Tigers were building momentum.

But Central’s pitching kept them in the fight. Dylan Chuck took the ball and delivered a masterful outing, working eight and two‑thirds innings while allowing just one earned run. He struck out seven and didn’t issue a single walk, giving his offense every chance to get back into the game.

And Central’s offense answered the call. In the bottom of the sixth, they broke through. A pair of timely singles from Dylan Gull and Josh Chuck brought two runs across, and the floodgates opened. By the time the dust settled, Central had pushed across five runs in the inning to take a 5–4 lead. They tacked on three more late to put the game out of reach.

Kyall McClean set the tone at the top of the order, collecting three hits in four at‑bats and stealing three bases. His energy on the base paths was contagious—Central swiped five bags in total, putting constant pressure on the defense. Gull and Chuck each drove in two runs, and Koby Chant chipped in with two hits as Central piled up 11 hits on the day.

Ransom started on the mound for Tigers and battled through six and two‑thirds innings, striking out eight and showing plenty of fight. At the plate, Ransom added two hits, and he and Matt Thompson formed a tough back‑to‑back combination, each driving in a run.

Both teams brought intensity to a critical game, but Central’s combination of a gritty starting pitching performance, a timely offensive explosion, and aggressive baserunning proved to be the difference.

Central Under 15 Claims Grand Final in Style

In a grand final that showcased explosive offense and lockdown pitching, Central Under 15 left no doubt, powering past South Under 15, 12–1, on Saturday. From the very first inning, Central set a tone that carried them all the way to the championship.

The game was effectively decided in the bottom of the first, when Central’s offense erupted for seven runs. Kye started the fireworks with a double that brought in the first run, and Connor followed with a two‑run single to keep the line moving. Jack, Jed, and Ty each contributed with run‑scoring hits or walks, and a perfectly executed steal of home capped off the inning. It was a statement of intent from a team that came ready to play.

Central didn’t take their foot off the gas. In the second inning, Jobe launched a home run to center field, adding two more runs to the tally. Then, in the fourth, Connor delivered the exclamation point—a three‑run blast to center, his second big hit of the day. By the time the dust settled, Connor had driven in five runs on two hits, a performance that anchored the lineup.

On the mound, Kye set the tone for Central. He worked three and one‑third strong innings, striking out six while allowing just one run. Jobe came on in relief and helped close things out, keeping South’s hitters off balance.

Central’s offense was relentless, collecting nine walks in total—a testament to their patience and discipline at the plate. Ty and Jobe each drew two walks to lead the way. Jack and Connor formed a powerful back‑to‑back presence in the order, each finishing with two hits. Defensively, Central was flawless, committing no errors, with Jobe handling six chances cleanly in the field.

For South, there were bright spots to build on. Memphis and Hunter each collected two hits, with Memphis driving in a run and going a perfect 2‑for‑2 at the plate. Their efforts kept the pressure on throughout the game.

Both teams brought their best to the grand final stage. Central’s combination of a dominant first inning, power hitting from Connor and Jobe, and sharp pitching proved to be the winning formula. A commanding performance to close out the season as champions.

Central Div 2 Walks Off in Grand Final Thriller

In a grand final that had a bit of everything, Central Div 2 delivered a dramatic walk‑off victory over South‑Millicent Div 2, 7–5, on Saturday. With the game tied in the bottom of the sixth, a well‑placed ball and a heads‑up play led to two runs crossing the plate, sending the home side into celebration.

Central wasted no time making a statement. In the very first inning, Mitchell launched an inside‑the‑park home run, clearing the bases and bringing three runs across. It was the kind of spark that set the tone for an unforgettable afternoon.

South‑Millicent showed their grit, though. They slowly chipped away, and in the top of the fifth, they put together a big rally. Ryan delivered a timely single, and Travis followed with a booming double that plated two, giving South‑Millicent a 5–4 lead. The momentum had swung, but Central wasn’t about to let the game slip away.

In the bottom of the fifth, Jordan—batting eighth in the order—laced a single to left, tying the game at five and showing the depth of Central’s lineup. That set the stage for the final act.

With the game still tied in the bottom of the sixth, Central put pressure on the defense. A sharp hit led to a critical error, and two runs raced home. Walk‑off. The field erupted.

On the mound, Mitchell started for Central and battled through four and one‑third innings, keeping his team in the fight. Brad came on in relief and was outstanding, tossing one and two‑third scoreless innings while allowing just one hit and striking out one. For South‑Millicent, Aaron started and struck out two over his outing, while Darcy provided length in relief with three and two‑third strong innings, fanning three.

Jordan was a spark plug at the plate, going a perfect three‑for‑three. Mitchell drove in three runs with his early heroics. Josh added two stolen bases, and Central swiped four bags overall while turning two sharp double plays in the field.

South‑Millicent had plenty of bright moments. Travis drove in two runs, while Jack and Darcy each collected two hits in a balanced offensive effort.

Both teams left everything on the field in a grand final that went down to the final play. Central’s resilience, timely hitting, and the unforgettable walk‑off made for a championship moment that will be remembered for a long time.

Central Under 13 Gold Claims Grand Final Glory

In a grand final that lived up to the occasion, Central Under 13 Gold delivered a polished performance to defeat Tigers Under 13 Gold, 4–1, on Saturday. The game was a showcase of strong pitching, sharp defense, and timely hitting—all the ingredients of a championship effort.

Tigers came out swinging and struck first in the second inning. Alfie delivered a clutch double to bring home the game’s opening run, giving his team an early spark. But Central’s response was swift. In the bottom of the third, Axel lined a single down the left field line to even the score at one, setting the stage for what would become a memorable day for the young slugger.

The game remained a tight pitcher’s duel until the bottom of the fifth, when Central’s offense came alive. Jed started the rally with a single down the left field line, Axel followed with another sharp single, and Jordan capped it off with a base hit to left. Three consecutive runs crossed the plate, giving Central a commanding 4–1 lead they would not surrender.

On the mound, Central’s pitching tandem was outstanding. Axel got the start and delivered two and two‑thirds strong innings, striking out five while allowing just one run. Jed came on in relief and was nothing short of dominant, tossing two and one‑third scoreless innings, striking out five and allowing only two hits. Together, they kept Tigers’ hitters off balance all game.

At the plate, Axel was a force, collecting three hits in three at‑bats and driving in two runs. Jed matched him with three hits of his own, and the pair formed a formidable back‑to‑back presence in the lineup. Central’s defense was flawless behind their pitchers, committing no errors—with Lucas turning in an outstanding performance, handling 10 chances cleanly in the field.

For Tigers, there was plenty to be proud of. Alfie led the way with two hits and an RBI, and he and Jax each collected two hits while hitting back‑to‑back in the order. Jax also started on the mound, striking out four over two and two‑thirds innings and keeping his team in the game throughout.

Both teams brought energy, skill, and heart to the grand final stage. In the end, Central’s timely hitting, lockdown relief pitching, and error‑free defense proved to be the winning formula. A well‑earned championship victory to cap off a terrific season.

Tigers Div 1 Take Game One Behind Clutch Hitting

Game one of the three‑game final series delivered all the drama a championship opener should have. Tigers Div 1 and Central Div 1 battled back and forth before Tigers broke through with a big inning to secure a 15–5 victory.

Central struck first in the second inning, manufacturing a run on a well‑placed groundout. But Tigers answered right away. In the top of the third, Karl Ransom delivered a clutch single to center field, tying the game at one and showing that his team was ready to respond to every challenge.

Central regained the lead in the bottom of the third, only for Tigers to pull even again in the fourth when Toby McKinnon laced a single to center, making it 2–2. The back‑and‑forth continued into the fifth, when Central put together a rally and took a 4–2 advantage on a two‑run single from Dylan Gull.

That’s when Tigers showed their championship resolve. In the top of the sixth, the offense erupted. Tigers strung together four hits and pushed five runs across, flipping the scoreboard in a hurry. The highlight of the inning came from Ransom, who delivered a two‑run single—part of an incredible day at the plate. He finished with five runs batted in on four hits, a performance that provided a steady heartbeat for the lineup.

On the mound, Alex Reppin set the tone for Tigers. He worked six and two‑thirds strong innings, allowing just five runs—none earned—while striking out six and walking only two. Joseph Sims came on in relief and tossed a scoreless inning, keeping the momentum firmly on Tigers’ side.

The Tigers’ offense was relentless, racking up 14 hits. McKinnon, Riley Parsons, and Jake England each had multiple hits, and the team showed exceptional patience at the plate with eight walks drawn—Sims leading the way with three. The defense also turned a sharp double play to back up their pitchers.

For Central, Koby Chant started and struck out six over five and one‑third innings, giving his team a fighting chance. Gull delivered a key two‑run hit in the fifth to put Central ahead, and Chant also contributed two hits at the plate.

Both teams traded blows in a game that felt every bit like a final. Tigers’ ability to respond to every Central rally and seize control with one explosive inning gave them the edge in the series opener.

Federals Under 13 Blue Rally for Comeback Victory

In a game full of energy and momentum swings, Federals Under 13 Blue staged an impressive comeback on Friday, erasing an early four‑run deficit to defeat Central Under 13 Blue, 7–4.

Central came out swinging to start the game. In the top of the first, they strung together four singles to jump on the board and set an aggressive tone. Axel delivered the first run with a timely hit, and Central’s offense continued to apply pressure throughout the early innings.

But Federals showed their resilience right away. In the bottom of the first, Hudson sparked the response with a double, and a well‑executed groundout helped even the score. The rally was just getting started. In the second inning, Federals capitalized on an opportunity to take the lead, and they kept their foot on the gas in the third. Nate laced a double to center field, and Mason followed with a sharp single to left, each driving in a run to extend the advantage.

Both starting pitchers gave their teams valuable innings. Levi took the ball for Federals, working three strong innings while striking out six and walking none. Eli started for Central, striking out a pair over one and two‑thirds innings while showing plenty of fight on the mound.

Central’s bats stayed busy throughout the day, out‑hitting Federals nine to six. Archer and Eli each collected two hits to lead the way, while Jack, Archer, Axel, and Harrison all contributed RBIs.

Federals brought energy on both sides of the ball. Hudson provided a spark in the middle of the lineup, leading the team with two RBIs. The defense was sharp all game, turning a smooth double play and committing no errors—with Connor handling six chances cleanly in the field.

The game was a true battle, with both teams showing plenty of heart. Federals’ ability to rally from an early deficit highlighted their determination, while Central’s strong hitting and competitive spirit kept the pressure on until the final out.

Pitching Duel Decisive as South Under 18 Claims Victory

It was a classic pitcher’s duel on Friday as South Under 18 edged Central Under 18, 3–1, in a game defined by dominant arms and timely hitting. From the first inning, both staffs set a tone that kept hitters guessing and fans on the edge of their seats.

Brad took the ball for South Under 18 and delivered an impressive start, working five and two-thirds strong innings. He allowed just five hits and no earned runs, striking out seven without issuing a walk. Cooper matched the intensity for Central Under 18, tossing six solid innings while surrendering only three hits and two earned runs. He added three strikeouts and showed plenty of poise on the mound.

The game’s pivotal moment came in the bottom of the third inning, when South Under 18 put together the breakthrough they needed. Jett got things started with a sacrifice fly to bring in the first run, and Bradley followed with a sharp single down the right field line to plate another. That two-run burst gave South a lead they wouldn’t relinquish.

South’s bullpen sealed the win with a composed finish. Jett came on in relief and delivered one and one-third scoreless innings, allowing no hits while striking out two and walking one to lock down the victory.

At the plate, Bradley led the way for South with two hits in three at‑bats, while both he and Jett joined Banjo in driving in one run apiece.

For Central, the offense showed plenty of fight. Bree and Jobe each collected two hits, with Bree also contributing an RBI. The team also turned a smooth double play in the field, a testament to their sharp defensive ex*****on.

Both sides put on a display of strong pitching and clean defense, making every run feel hard‑earned. In the end, South Under 18 made the most of their opportunities and came away with the victory in a game that showcased the depth and talent on both rosters.

Mount Gambier and District Baseball League rename Diamond 1 to Sid Hosking OAM Field

We are here to honour a man whose name is forever tied to this game, this league, and this very ground.

From today forward, Diamond 1 will proudly and permanently be known as Sid Hosking OAM Field.

Sid Hosking OAM was not just part of baseball here in Mount Gambier — in many ways, he helped build it. His passion for the game, his commitment to the league, and his belief in what baseball could mean to a community shaped the sport for generations that followed.

Sid gave his time freely. He gave his wisdom generously. And he gave his heart completely to the game he loved.

The respect he earned across the baseball community was extraordinary. Sid was a Life Member of Central Baseball Club, a Life Member of the Mount Gambier and District Baseball League, a Life Member of South Australian Baseball, and a Life Member of the South Australian Country Baseball Association.

These honours alone tell the story of a lifetime dedicated to the sport.

But Sid’s impact reached far beyond the diamond. His service to sport and community was recognised nationally when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia, a fitting tribute to a man who gave so much of himself to others.

For those who had the privilege of knowing Sid, you didn’t just see a great baseball person — you saw a great man. A mentor, a leader, a friend, and someone who genuinely cared about people.

There are generations of players who stand here today because Sid believed in them, encouraged them, and helped build the pathway for them to play the game we all love.

Today is about making sure that his name, his legacy, and his contribution are never forgotten.

From this day forward, every pitch thrown, every hit, every win, every loss, every young player stepping onto this diamond will do so on Sid Hosking Field.

And in that way, Sid will always be part of the game.

To Sid’s family, thank you for sharing him with our baseball community for so many years. His influence lives on in this league, in this club, and in every person whose life he touched.

Some people play the game.

Some people serve the game.

But very few people shape the game the way Sid Hosking did.

It is now my great honour to unveil Sid Hosking OAM Field, a tribute to a true baseball legend whose legacy will live on here forever.

MOUNT GAMBIER & DISTRICT BASEBALL LEAGUE

TROPHY WINNERS FOR THE 2025-2026 SEASON

Most Valuable Player Awards:
- Division 1: DYLAN CHUCK (21, Central)
- Division 2: MITCHEL RUWOLDT (21, Central)
- Division 3: BEN GREEN (15, Central Magpies)
- Big League: CAMERON SCOTT (17, Tigers)
- Junior League: KYE WREN-MITCHELL (26, Central)
- Little League: AXEL REEVES (22, Central)
- Minor League: LEVI NICHOLLS

Batting Average Awards:
- Division 1: ALEX REPPIN (.469, Tigers)
- Division 2: KEN SISSON (.667, Naracoorte)
- Division 3: HAYDEN TIMMS (.600, South)
- Big League: PHOENIX COLE (.452, South)
- Junior League: JOBE LYNAGH

Runs Batted In Awards:
- Division 1: KOBY CHANT (31, Central)
- Division 2: BRAD LYNAGH (24, Central) and MITCHEL RUWOLDT (24, Central)
- Division 3: HAYDEN TIMMS (18, South) and JAMES PARKER (18, South)
- Big League: JETT LEWIS (12, South)
- Junior League: JOBE LYNAGH (17, Central)

Perpetual Trophies:
- Mount Gambier and District Baseball Club Division 1 Most Valuable Player: DYLAN CHUCK
- Ewart Family Division 1 Batting Trophy: ALEX REPPIN
- Terry Probert Memorial Sluggers Award: JAKE TURNER
- David Chuck Best Under 20 in Division 1: ELLIS CUSHION
- Sid Hosking Memorial – Most Valuable Contribution To Baseball: DYLAN CHUCK
- Hopgood Trophy – Division 1 Minor Premiers: CENTRAL

Team of the Year 2025-2026:
- Coach: Nathan Meinck
- Pitcher: Dylan Chuck
- Catcher: Matt Thompson
- 1st Base: Koby Chant
- 2nd Base: Kyall McClean
- 3rd Base: Jake Turner
- Short Stop: Tarkyn Morale
- Outfield: Toby McKinnon, Dave Harris, Jordan Johnson
- Designated Hitter: Alex Reppin
- Utility: Ellis Cushion, Edward Trupp

Massive thanks to Shaylah Cole Photography

MGBL Presintation Photo collection by Shaylah Cole Photography

Mount Gambier and District Baseball League Grand Final Schedule

Friday, 20th March 2026

6:00 p.m. Minor League: Federal vs. Central (Diamond 5)
6:00 p.m. Big League: South vs. Central (Sid Hosking OAM Field)
8:00 p.m. Division 1: Central vs. Tigers (Sid Hosking OAM Field)

Saturday

11:00 a.m. Division 3: South vs. Central (Sid Hosking OAM Field)
12:00 p.m. Little League: Central vs. Tigers (Diamond 5)
1:30 p.m. Division 2: Central vs. South/Millicent (Sid Hosking OAM Field)
2:00pm Junior League Diamond 3
Central v South
4:00 p.m. Division 1: Central vs. Tigers (Sid Hosking OAM Field)
7:00 p.m. Division 1: Central vs. Tigers (Sid Hosking OAM Field) If Required

Brodie's Big Day Lifts Central Under 13 Blue Past Tigers and Into Grand Final

Brodie put on a hitting clinic Friday, collecting multiple hits in both ends of a doubleheader as Central Under 13 Blue swept past Tigers Under 13 Blue with dominant 13-4 and 9-3 victories to punch their ticket to the grand final.

In the opening game, Brodie was unstoppable at the plate, going a perfect 3-for-3 with three singles while driving in runs and setting the tone for an offense that simply couldn't be contained. The young slugger singled in the first, second, and third innings, reaching base every time he stepped to the dish.

Central wasted no time getting on the board, plating five runs in the bottom of the first on five consecutive singles. Axel got things started with an RBI knock, and the hits just kept coming.

The offensive onslaught continued in the second inning with another five-run outburst. Brodie singled home a run, Axel doubled in another, Jack cleared the bases with a two-run triple, and Archer capped the rally with an RBI single of his own.

For good measure, Central tacked on three more in the third thanks to RBI singles from Finn, Eli, and Brodie, putting the game firmly out of reach.

Axel took the ball first for Central, working three strong innings while allowing five hits and four runs. The right-hander struck out five without issuing a walk, showing excellent control. Saxon started for Tigers, giving up seven hits and five runs in just one-third of an inning.