As Team Australia arrives in Japan for an exhibition series against the might of the Japanese National Team, the aim for the program at the end of this competition cycle is clear for General Manager Glenn Williams.
“The ultimate goal is an Olympic Medal at Tokyo 2020,” Williams said.
“It seems like a long way away and definitely not an easy task, however trips like this form an integral part in the work towards that goal.”
Williams also highlighted the importance of the pre-tournament camp in Fuchu City, a partnership which was struck with Team Australia’s long-term interests in mind.
“To experience Fuchu City for the first time as a team and continue to build on relationships there is vital.”
Competing against an Olympic medal favourite (Japan) at home and playing in front of a very passionate home crowd in Japan all forms part of a greater journey towards 2020.
Each and every member of the Australian team is part of something bigger, a broader plan with all roads leading to Tokyo 2020.
Longtime Australian representative and three-time ABL Champion Logan Wade is excited to show the world what it means to be Australian.
“Having another chance to play in the green and gold is an honour,” Wade said.
“This Australian team is refreshed and aiming for big things. This is definitely the start of a new era. The journey to 2020 begins this week and we will make a statement that the world will hear.”
The mix of youth and experience is obvious in this Team Australia squad, with a number of athletes making their debut’s for the Men’s National Team.
One of those athletes is 25-year-old Sam Street, whose career minor league ERA sits at an impressive 2.19.
“Being selected to the Australian team means a lot to myself, my friends and my family,” Street said.
“It’s something I’ve been working towards for a long time, and now that I’m here, I can’t wait to get out there and get after them.”
You can join Team Australia on #2020OurJourney, with both games against Japan to be broadcast live on FOX SPORTS AUSTRALIA.