Four young Nelson baseball players recently got a taste of the big-time, representing New Zealand at an international tournament over in the United States.
Waimea College students Quinn Heiford and Cameron Lukey represented New Zealand at the U16 Babe Ruth Baseball World Series in Branson, Missouri. While Waimea Intermediate’s Tama Kotua and Lars Klaver played in the U12 Cal Ripken Tournament.
For Quinn, it was his second time playing in the US and the 15 year old says it was a great experience.
“We played really well. We didn’t come with a win in the tournament but we did win a warm-up game.
“The standard of play over there is so high.”
Cameron played mainly at first base and did some pitching, while contributing with the bat.
“I had a high percentage of hits so I was pretty happy.”
Tama’s highlight was a game-winning hit that saw two of his teammates home, giving New Zealand a 3-1 win, its first ever win at that tournament.
All of the boys say the support they got from local businesses helped them fundraise for the trip, with family making up the short fall.
“Thanks to everyone who helped us, it’s such a great experience to play against players that good and it helps us to be better,” says Quinn.
All of the boys will now turn their attention to the local Nelson Heat season starting in a few weeks, except for Lars, who has moved back to live in The Netherlands.
