Recovering from a broken thumb was never going to stop precocious Launceston softball star Connor Watke.
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The 17-year-old proved determined to get back on the plate for a state debut at the national under-19 titles.
“It wasn’t the best with a broken thumb going in, but I know for next time not to go too soon too early,” he said.
Not even Tasmania unable to field the numbers at the fastpitch softball tournament could dent his momentum.
Watke was the sole Tasmanian drafted to another state, picked up to play for Victoria.
The versatile pitcher/catcher for the Eagles – one of only two Northern Tasmanian softball clubs – said the experience was invaluable.
“It’s a whole different ball game,” Watke said. “They’re better players and you’re also playing the best in Australia.”
Watke will head to the Victorian open titles playing for Werribee. But he also plans to visit Canada for fixtures involving the Aussie Sparks to build on his softball CV.
“It’s completely different over there,” he said, “more people playing it and a lot more teams going around.”
Andrew Mathieson
The day I realised I wasn't good enough to play for St Kilda or be the No.1 spinner for Australia was when I realised journalism was the closest I could come to follow my passion for sport. And it's not just about the scores for me. It's the back story behind the game.
The day I realised I wasn't good enough to play for St Kilda or be the No.1 spinner for Australia was when I realised journalism was the closest I could come to follow my passion for sport. And it's not just about the scores for me. It's the back story behind the game.
