2026 Australian Youth Championships U16 & U18 State Team Trials

Public Release: 2026 South Australian U16 & U18 State Team Trials

Baseball South Australia is pleased to announce the details for the upcoming U16 and U18 State Team Trials ahead of the 2026 Australian Youth Championships.

• U16 Eligibility: Athletes born between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2011

• U18 Eligibility: Athletes born between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2009

Trial Location

All trials will be held at West Beach across Diamond 1, the indoor training facility, and the gym.

Trial Dates

U18s

• Wednesday 24 September — Data Testing (5:00–9:00 PM)

• Monday 29 September — Game Evaluation (5:00–9:00 PM)

• Tuesday 30 September — Game Evaluation (5:00–9:00 PM)

• Wednesday 1 October — Game Evaluation (5:00–9:00 PM)

U16s

• Thursday 25 September — Data Testing (5:00–9:00 PM)

• Friday 26 September — Game Evaluation (5:00–9:00 PM)

• Sunday 28 September — Double Header Game Evaluation (9:00 AM–3:00 PM approx.)

Data Testing

This year’s trials will feature a State Showcase testing model inspired by the MLB Draft Combine. Athletes will rotate through five key areas:

• Club Interviews & Reflection – values, feedback, and performance review.

• Medical Assessment – InBody analysis (body composition, posture, movement screening, strength, balance, grip).

• Vision/Reaction/Coordination Testing.

• On-Field Tools Assessment – hitting, power, speed, fielding, and arm strength.

• Strength & Conditioning Tests – running splits, jump testing, swing analysis, and functional strength measures.

Each athlete will receive a comprehensive performance report at the conclusion of trials.

Game Evaluation

Athletes will compete in live game settings and be assessed by the State Coaching Staff and Performance Pathways team. Evaluations will include:

• Pitching, hitting, fielding, and catching performance.

• Data tracking via Rapsodo, Blast Motion, radar guns, charts, and full-speed running assessments.

• Individual impact and team contribution.

Performance Data

Objective results from trials will be shared with parents/guardians and athletes. Reports will highlight strengths, benchmarks, and growth areas compared to peers across the state.

Metal Bat Requirement

Both U16 and U18 players will use -3 BBCOR certified metal bats, in line with the 2026 Australian Youth Championships. All players must bring and use these bats during trials.

Equipment Checklist

• Baseball pants

• Pathways or club training top

• Pathways or club hat

• Running/turf shoes (indoor & gym)

• Cleats

• BBCOR -3 metal bat

• Batting helmet

• Fielding glove

• Catcher’s gear (if applicable)

• Water bottle & snacks

Selection Process

• Mandatory attendance: Athletes must attend the trials to be eligible.

• Following trials, parents/guardians will receive communication regarding selection outcomes.

• Successful athletes will advance to the Extended Squad:

  • Training dates: October 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29 (Mon/Wed evenings).

• Final State Team rosters will be confirmed by 1 November 2025.

Trial Cost

The trial fee is $200 (incl. GST), covering facilities, equipment, lights, and coaches.
(Note: Extended squad and team training costs are separate.)

Registrations

Registrations will open on Monday 15 September at 5:00 PM.
Links to registration will be posted on our social media channels, published on the Baseball SA website, and emailed to the community.

Pre-Tournament SA vs VIC Showdown

Both selected teams will participate in an exhibition series vs Victoria prior to Nationals:

• 26–29 December 2025 (Melbourne)

• 5 games (2x 27 Dec, 2x 28 Dec, 1x 29 Dec)

• Flights and accommodation are booked and included in tournament fees.

Nationals – Australian Youth Championships

The 2026 Championships will be held in Melbourne, Victoria.

• U16s: Tournament 7–13 January | Travel 5 & 14 January

• U18s: Tournament 9–15 January | Travel 7 & 16 January