SOFTBALL pitching has become a way of life for talented Medowie schoolboy Josh Tasker.
After a brief stint in the baseball ranks, the 11-year-old has made a smooth transition into the Hunter junior softball pathways system.
A powerful pitcher and smart first base with the Mayfield Strikers club, young Josh turned in strong performances in the summer Youth League competition to earn selection in the Newcastle District Softball Association (NDSA) Under 14 Development Squad.
The Medowie Public School Year 6 pupil has been chosen in this year’s Hunter Primary Schools Sports Association Under 12s representative team to compete at the NSW Primary School Softball Championships in August at Curl Curl.
It is a top achievement for Josh, who relocated to Port Stephens with his family from Sydney’s Sutherland Shire back in 2020 at the age of six.
Josh spent a season with the Cronulla Sharks Baseball Club before settling in Medowie and making a switch to softball.
He told News Of The Area that being named in the Hunter Primary Schools representative softball team was a “wonderful experience.”
“It is a great opportunity to test my skills against the best schoolboy softballers at an elite level – something I’ve worked hard for over the past two years,” he said.
Josh showed early potential at first base but has thrived since taking on a pitching role with the Strikers.
His club coaches Helen Greentree and Scott Norman have had a major influence, along with Newcastle Development mentor Justin Brown.
Helen was the one who encouraged Josh to turn his hand to pitching.
She identified his natural pitching style at a Mayfield club training session and has assisted the youngster in honing his technique.
Josh has made the most of his opportunities – helping to steer the Strikers to the Under 14s Youth League Grand Final last season against premiers Belmont.
Coach Norman was just as impressed and has watched the young pitcher grow in stature this season against older opponents.
Josh continues to improve with additional pitching training under the experienced Brown in the Newcastle Under 14 Development Squad.
He is now in the mix for selection in the Newcastle Under 14s representative softball team to play Challenge matches against Wagga in September.
“My coaches Helen, Scott and Justin have shaped my pitching and always encourage me to give my best,” said Josh.
“They have helped me develop as a player and are three people I respect so much.”
In the winter months. Josh juggles his softball commitments with his other sporting love – rugby league.
He is an emerging forward with the Raymond Terrace Roosters Under 12 Div 4 side, which competes in the Hunter Junior League competition.
By Chris KARAS
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