In just their second season the Armidale Outlaws will seek their fourth title this season when the 2017 Tamworth Baseball deciders launch into action.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
In an impressive feat by a club still in its infancy, the Outlaws took out two minor premierships and the club championship this year.
In the A grade grand final, the Armidale side take on the defending champions in the Tamworth-based Warriors.
The B graders face Cavaliers after downing the Warriors B grade team in last weekend’s semi-final.
Outlaws coach Josh Shaw said after last year’s disappointment of failing to qualify for the big dance, there is an intense excitement around the club in the lead up to Saturday’s grand final clashes.
“There is a feeling of unfinished business and that is putting a lot of fire in the bellies of the guys who were there last year,” he said.
“The new guys are also getting on board because they can feel that passion and they can feel the vibes that are coming through from the other guys and everyone is fairly determined.”
Shaw believes taking out the minor premiership and club championship trophies gave the squad a lot of confidence to finish the season.
“It also gave us the chance to settle back down, focus on the job left to do and I think we are heading into this weekend's games about as prepared as we can be and feeling very confident,” he said.
“From a coach's perspective, I couldn't be happier with what the guys have done already this season.
“I am extremely proud of everyone and this would just be the cherry on top for us.”
He said taking on a team who have experienced success in a decider will be tough but the Outlaws won’t be straying from the gameplan which has earned them the spoils all year.
“The same way we have all season, just don't give up and take the opportunities that we're given and play really good defence against these guys,” he said.
“They're a side that will hit one to nine, there's no weakness in their batting order at all so it's really important that we get on top early and hold them out.”