INTRODUCING THE 2025/26 AYC COACHING STAFF

We are excited to unveil the coaching staff for the 2025/26 South Australian State Teams heading to the Australian Youth Championships for U16s & U18s. With a strong blend of returning faces, elite experience, and national-level talent, this year’s U16 and U18 squads are in excellent hands as they prepare for the national stage.

U16S AUSTRALIAN YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP STAFF

Marc Taintey – Head Coach

Marc Taintey returns to the U16s, but as Head Coach, bringing decades of experience as both a player and mentor. A former Adelaide Giant/Bite and over 400-game Division 1 veteran, Marc also played college ball in Southern California and competed in Japan’s Industrial League. Known for his strategic baseball mind and calm leadership, Marc is passionate about helping young players develop the skills and mindset needed to succeed at the next level. His strong connection to South Australian baseball and ability to build competitive, respectful teams makes him the ideal figure to lead this age group through the national championship campaign.

James Henty – Assistant Coach

James Henty brings a wealth of club-level coaching experience to the U16 coaching staff. As a respected figure in the community, James has led senior teams deep into finals and earned a reputation for strong leadership, discipline, and player development. He’s particularly passionate about building team culture and laying the foundations for long-term success. James has a sharp eye for in-game decision making and works well with emerging athletes looking to step up. His experience, paired with a calm, supportive presence, makes him an excellent complement to the coaching team heading to the Australian Youth Championship.

Tyson McKee – Pitching Coach
Tyson McKee is a former U15 Australian representative, two-time Australian Youth Championship (AYC) Gold Medal winner at the U16 and U18 levels, and ABL champion with the Canberra Cavalry. He has pitched Division 1 baseball in South Australia, earning Pitcher of the Year honors in 2023/24, and was named Rookie of the Year during the Cavalry’s 2024–25 Claxton Shield title run. Tyson brings elite experience, leadership, and technical pitching knowledge to his role. He currently serves as a Pathways Pitching Coach off the back of a successful campaign with the School Sports U18s as the Pitching Coach where they won bronze.

TBD – Executive Officer
Want to support the next generation of South Australian talent? We’re currently taking Expressions of Interest for the U16 State Team Executive Officer role! This position is perfect for someone organised, enthusiastic, and passionate about junior baseball. The EO works closely with coaching staff, players, and families to manage travel, logistics, and off-field operations. It’s a great way to stay involved in the game and help create a positive, professional experience for our athletes. If that sounds like you, head to our website to submit your EOI today! Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/r/gsTFrty1kb

U18S AUSTRALIAN YOUTH CHAMPIONSHIP STAFF

Chris Sims – Head Coach

Chris Sims returns as U18 State Team Head Coach with elite experience at state and national development levels. He’s led South Australia at multiple Australian Youth Championships (U16 in Redcliffe, U18 in Blacktown) and currently heads Adelaide Baseball Club’s Division 1 squad. In 2023, Chris was selected to join the Team Australia U18 squad on their Fort Myers development tour in the USA, showcasing his strong coaching credentials on the international stage. With a calm and player-focused style, Sims is the perfect fit to guide SA’s next wave of talent toward national selection.

Josh Cakebread - Assistant Coach

Joining the U18 coaching staff for the first time is Josh Cakebread. Josh compiled an impressive playing career across both ABL and State League here in SA and was a mainstay in the Giants infield in the early 2010’s playing over 100 ABL games. At a local level Josh was a multiple premiership player with Port Adelaide and Goodwood and won multiple golden gloves and All-Star selections across his 20+ seasons at the Division 1 level. As a gold clove calibre infielder and a tough out at the plate Josh will provide great teaching and insight across infield and hitting approach. Welcome aboard Josh!

Justin Clark – Pitching Coach

Justin “Clarky” Clark returns to the U18 staff with a rapidly growing national coaching resume. He’s currently the Pitching Coach for Team Australia at the WBSC U‑18 Baseball World Cup in Okinawa (Sept 5–14, 2025) and recently joined the Team Australia U16 squad on their Perfect Game Tour through the USA—helping Australia’s top youth pitchers compete on the international stage. A long-time SABL Division 1 pitcher with experience coaching at the Adelaide Giants and internationally, Clark is known for his deep understanding of pitching biomechanics, performance under pressure, and mental preparedness.

Executive Officer – Mark Chandler

A familiar face in Australian baseball, Mark “Chuckles” Chandler brings decades of experience to the U18 program in both coaching and operations. A 14-year Division 1 player with East Torrens and GGCD, Chuckles has coached SA’s 16s and 18s teams 11 times (1999–2024), served as an Assistant Coach in the ABL with the Adelaide Bite and Melbourne Aces, and worked as Executive Officer for both clubs from 2014–2021. He’s also been EO for Team Australia U23s at three World Cups (2014, 2016, 2018). Doubling as EO and Assistant Coach again in 2025, Chuckles brings unmatched experience and a strong rapport with BA staff.