30/12/2025
“The players have to love the game, because they spend a lot of time travelling to get to training and to games,” says Hall of Fame NSW Country coach Ian Hook.
Hook has seen it all.
With 22 years coaching Country programs across multiple age groups, he understands how rare it is to turn scattered talent into a connected team, and how powerful it can be when it clicks.
Training has been deliberate rather than constant.
NSW Country has come together fortnightly since October, focusing on fundamentals, trust, and confidence.
“We’re aiming to make top four,” Hook said. “Anything can happen then.”
The blueprint is simple and intentional. NSW Country will rely on pitchers attacking the zone, defenders making plays, and hitters putting the ball in play.
“Pitchers to throw strikes. Good defence. Making good contact,” Hook said.
Several players have represented NSW Country for multiple years, including Connor McCarthy, who says continuity has made a difference.
“Most of us have played for NSW Country for three-plus years together,” McCarthy, from the Far North Baseball Association, said. “We know each other really well and bond well as a team.”
Belief has been another major focus. Hook has challenged players to trust their instincts and back themselves in key moments.
“Having the confidence in themselves to make the right calls,” he said.
That mindset has helped shape a culture rooted in effort and unity.
“Supporting, back each other, hard workers, mateship,” Hook says.
Read the full NSW Country Preview for the 2026 Australian Youth Championships via the tournament hub at baseball.com.au/ayc2026