The Redlands Rays Baseball Club, located in Brisbane, is a family-oriented and community sporting club that relies on volunteer support. The club's main goal is to promote participation in baseball at all levels and cultivate a friendly and healthy sporting environment for the community to enjoy. With a motto inspired by Stephen Curry, “If you don't fall, how are you going to know what getting up is like,” the Redlands Rays Baseball Club encourages resilience and growth in its members.
The club's creation was inspired by the success story of Todd McDonald, a 17-year-old Aboriginal boy who was signed by the Texas Rangers Major League Baseball organisation. Todd's journey began when his mother gave him the choice to play either baseball or cricket at the age of 12. He chose baseball and, five years later, signed a contract worth $475,000 with the Texas Rangers. His remarkable achievement highlighted the limited opportunities for Aboriginal players in baseball, prompting the establishment of the Redlands Rays Baseball Club.
Looking towards the future, the Redlands Rays Baseball Club aims to expand its reach and provide more opportunities for all members. Some of the club's aspirations include First Nations outreach, where the game of baseball is taken to remote Aboriginal communities, player sponsorship opportunities, the formation of a First Nations youth team (an Australian first concept), participation in friendship tournaments such as the Timberjacks and Gold Coast Classic, the Banggu Baseball Academy that utilises the latest technology and equipment to enhance professionalism, and a USA tour to give youth players the chance to experience the home of baseball.
The Redlands Rays Baseball Club also runs the Banggu Baseball First Nations Programme, which aims to introduce First Nations youth to the sport and create opportunities similar to Todd McDonald's journey. Through this programme, skills development, mentorship, and pathways to higher levels of baseball, including state and national representation, are provided. The club strives to increase the participation of First Nations youth in baseball and facilitate pathways for professional opportunities.
For those interested in becoming a member of the Redlands Rays Baseball Club or playing for the team, information, and registration can be found on the club's online store. With a focus on community, inclusivity, and the growth of baseball in Australia, the Redlands Rays Baseball Club welcomes all individuals who share a love for the game.