Edenvale baseball players represent SA u-12 baseball team in Taiwan

Edenvale’s Giants and Imps Baseball players Travis Hoffmann, Michael Barrett and head coach Colin Barrett jetted off to Taiwan to represent South Africa recently.

The local trio formed part of the u-12 South African baseball team which participated in the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) Cup.

On July 23, the SA baseball team took off for Taiwan.

The world cup batted off on July 26, where the boys won their first match.

WBSC’s online platform live streamed all world cup games.

All parents and supporters of the SA team were glued to their screens.

Erica Barrett, Michael’s mother and wife to Colin, said she was up every day at 4am watching the matches.

“I was finished,” said Erica.

She said she was proud of her son and husband.

“My son was excited to learn more about the Taiwanese culture and make new friends.”

According to Erica, Colin has been to the world cup in 2017.

“Colin said this year the team was better prepared.”

During the practice sessions and sporting schedule, the boys had a day off to learn more about Taiwan and its cultural sights.

Erica said she was excited about the day off for the children.

“It is very nice for them to learn about new places and people at such a young age.”

Kate Hoffmann, mother to Travis, said her son played well.

“He took a few spectacular catches, I am very proud of his achievement.”

Lana Bell, committee member from Giants and Imps Baseball Club, said the SA team played against very strong teams, like Japan and USA, to name a few.

“They have conducted themselves impeccably and won the hearts of the Taiwan supporters.

“The team consistently improved with each game.

“The Giants Imps Baseball family is proud of the entire squad and can see a very bright future for them all,” said Lana.