Cougars place trust in youth

By Marc McGowan
BERWICK City Cougars playing coach Wayne Porter says finals are a realistic ambition for his youthful squad in the upcoming Baseball Victoria Division Three season.
The Cougars enjoyed their best year in the division last season, but Porter hopes the club can win around 11 of its 21 matches in 2008/09.
Veteran pitcher Jude Power was expected to miss this season due to navy commitments, but will now play for Berwick City until at least Christmas.
And former Cougar Matt Clements will make his return to the club, most likely from the bullpen, after taking last season off due to persistent arm troubles.
But it hasn’t been all good news at Cyril Molyneux Reserve, with mainstays Luke Hornstra and Davis Long, and promising slugger John King, leaving the club.
Berwick City’s teenage brigade will once again play a pivotal role in the Cougars’ fortunes.
Shortstop Jack Spears, outfielder Jake McLardy, infielder Aaron Warner and state representatives Adam Silva and Martin and Matthew Kennedy are just some of the names to keep an eye on.
Sixteen-year-old starting pitcher Martin Kennedy, in particular, will be given more responsibility this season and his progress could go a long way towards Berwick City achieving success.
Porter is quietly confident the club can take another step forward in his second season at the helm.
“I would think we could win as often as we lost and maybe even get a game or two over .500,” he said.
“A few clubs have lost a few players, so if we can break even that might see us make the finals.
“Springvale and Williamstown will be the tougher ones, but I’m confident we can match it with everybody.”
The Cougars will field four senior men’s teams for the first time this season and will also suit up a women’s side.
Martin Kennedy and Power are in contention to start on the mound for Berwick City, who will be wearing new uniforms, in round one against Port Melbourne at Cyril Molyneux Reserve on Sunday.
The firsts start at 3.30pm, while the seconds play the curtain-raiser at 1pm.
“We’re looking to start off well and we’re expecting a win,” Porter said.