The Southern Stars Baseball Club hosted their much-anticipated senior reserve team end-of-year prize-giving as the year drew to an end.
For the club, it was a historic occasion as they commemorated a year of expansion and achievement. The Alberton-based club’s hard work and dedication paid off when they were able to register two baseball teams in the senior league for the first time in 13 years, the Stigma Stars and Southern Stars.
For the players and coaches, the prize-giving ceremony was an opportunity for introspection as they assessed the year’s events and acknowledged the tremendous skill both teams had displayed.
Athletes’ exceptional efforts were highlighted through the presentation of awards based on their performances and statistics.
Throughout the year, the Sigma Stars squad put on some incredible performances.
The following players received recognition:
• As the team’s best batter, Jonty Wood was acknowledged for his continuous production of spectacular hits.
• Best pitcher Kyle Posthumus won the title after regularly exhibiting his precision and skill on the mound.
• Best catcher, Ian Horvath, took the honour for his exceptional defensive skills and team-leading talents.
• Being named the most promising newcomer, Ettienne van den Heever is a testament to his potential and promising future in the sport.
• Finally, due to his outstanding play and leadership on and off the pitch, Thabang Maele won the most valuable player award.
There were several exceptional players on the Southern Stars squad as well.
They are as follows:
• Shaun Niemand received the award for the team’s best batter because he often produced strong hits and helped the team succeed with the bat.
• Jarrod Kleber won the title of best pitcher after exhibiting amazing control and authority on the mound.
• Best catcher winner, Tshidiso Ramotsidisi, was recognised for his outstanding leadership and defensive abilities.
• Having demonstrated his extraordinary talent and promise, Donovan Saayman won the Most Promising Newcomer award.
• The most valuable player award went to Kyle Kleber in recognition of his ability to guide the team to victory and his consistently excellent performances.
Several floating trophies were given out in addition to the individual prizes, with the results determined by the team as a whole, and are as follows:
• Wooden spoon award – Silvio Dominianni and Shaun Niemand
• Game changer – Jarrod Kleber
• Blooper award – Camren van der Watt
• Ron Peterson star award – Jarrod Kleber and Shaun Niemand
• Most committed Stars supporters – Helen Naude and Taryn Niemand
• Home run award (stats) – Jarrod Kleber
• Boetie van Rensburg most improved player award – Camren van der Watt
• Golden glove award – Thabang Maele
• Highest on-base percent award (stats) – Gilly Dickinson.
The club’s administrator, chairperson Shaun Niemand, said the club is appreciative of the individuals who helped make the previous season a success, including the players, managers, coaches, supporters and volunteers.
“Without their unwavering commitment, this journey would not have been possible. As the club looks ahead to the next season, we are filled with anticipation and excitement, ready to build upon the success of the past year and continue our legacy of excellence,” the chairperson said.
For more information about the club, contact Shaun Niemand on 072 148 2535 or chairman@sstarsbaseball.co.za
