INTRODUCING OUR 2024/2025 STATE COACHING STAFF
We are thrilled to introduce the head coaches for Baseball SA's State Teams for the Australian Youth Championships U16s and U18s for the 2024/2025 season. Following a highly successful year, we are eager to continue building on our achievements through the State Pathways Program. Our dedicated and experienced coaches are poised to lead our young athletes to new heights, fostering talent and passion for the game.
UNDER 18s STAFF
CHRIS SIMS
HEAD COACH
Leading the charge is head coach Chris Sims. Known as "Simsy," Chris brings a wealth of experience from coaching the U16’s State Team in Redcliffe 2022 and the U18’s in Blacktown at the Australian Youth Championships. He is also the current Division 1 Coach for Adelaide Baseball Club and previously led the Port Adelaide Magpies to two Grand Finals. With extensive experience in high-performance programs and international coaching, Chris’s dedication to player development and skill enhancement is unparalleled. His focus on data-driven skill development will be pivotal in preparing the team for success.
NATHAN VAN DER LINDEN
ASSISTANT COACH
Joining Chris is assistant coach Nathan Van Der Linden. A versatile player and seasoned coach, Nate’s experience spans multiple positions and international play, including recent success with the Adelaide Giants in the Claxton Shield and head coaching the Women's Showcase. Nate’s insight into infield play and mental preparation will be invaluable for the team’s upcoming talents.
JUSTIN CLARK
PITCHING COACH
Rounding out the U18s coaching staff, coach Justin Clark, a familiar and respected name in South Australian baseball. "Clarky" has a rich history as a Division 1 player and coach, including stints with the Adelaide Giants and international coaching roles. His expertise in biomechanics and pitcher development will be crucial for the team’s success. Justin’s adaptive coaching style, honed through years of working with both juniors and professionals, will ensure the pitchers are well-prepared and consistent.
UNDER 16s STAFF
ANDREW COUZNER
HEAD COACH
Leading the team is head coach Andrew, also known as "Couz." With seven years of coaching experience at Marlins State Charter level, including roles as Head Coach and Pitching Coach for various Little League and Junior League teams, Andrew has built strong networks within the baseball community. His extensive experience and Driveline certification make him a key asset in developing the team's pitching staff. As a former U16s and U18s state representative and Adelaide Giants player, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a calming presence to the bench.
MARC TAINTEY
ASSISTANT COACH
Joining Andrew is assistant coach Marc Taintey, a seasoned outfielder with over 400 Division 1 games in the South Australian Baseball League. Marc’s impressive career includes playing for the Adelaide Giants/Bite and international stints at Southern California Community College and the Japanese Industrial League. His deep understanding of Pathways Programs and numerous accolades, such as the Max Puckett HP Athlete of the Year, will be invaluable in mentoring the team. Marc’s professionalism and respect for the game are expected to inspire and elevate the players’ performance.
JAMES HENTY
ASSISTANT COACH
We are also thrilled to have James Henty on board as an assistant coach. James has a rich coaching history, leading teams to finals in various divisions and demonstrating a strong focus on fundamental baseball skills. His experience as a senior coach for West Torrens and his success in developing young players make him a perfect fit for the U16s team. James’s relatable and knowledgeable approach will be crucial in nurturing the team’s talent.
KYM ASHWORTH
PITCHING COACH
We are excited to welcome Kym Ashworth to the coaching line-up as the U16s pitching coach. Kym's impressive playing career includes stints with the Adelaide Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Detroit Tigers. As a coach, Kym has extensive experience with East Torrens juniors and seniors, serving as a senior pitching coach multiple times. His professional experience and dedication to coaching young pitchers will be a significant advantage for the U16s team. Kym’s fresh perspective and innovative techniques will bring a new dynamic to the coaching staff, enhancing the team’s overall development. His recent involvement with East Torrens juniors has already shown his capability to connect with young athletes and foster their growth.