GAWLER RANGERS NEW COACH (WITH STORY) From Left, new assistant coach Rick Leonard; Mike McClarty new Club Coach and Gawler Rangers president Darko Filko. PHOTO: Barry O'Brien
BARRY O’BRIEN
GAWLER Rangers Baseball Club this week announced highly experienced and credentialed coach Mike McClarty has been appointed club coach for the 2019/20 season.
He will be assisted by power hitter and pitcher Rick Leonard from Golden Grove Central Districts.
McClarty was inaugural coach of the club and enjoyed five successful seasons at the helm from 2007.
“We are thrilled with the appointment,” Rangers president Darko Filko said.
“His experience is immense, just what we need in our push to get us into division one.
“It is a very exciting time for our young club.
“The buzz among players and supporters is noticeable, and with the planned upgrade of the diamond and facilities at Karbeethan, things couldn’t be more positive.”
McClarty has had a sterling career in coaching division one for Northern Districts, Sturt, Adelaide and Central Districts and has also coached at East Torrens and Golden Grove.
He played state baseball in the Claxton Shield for New South Wales, played and coached in the ACT and has been a Major League scout for St Louis Cardinals and San Francisco Giants.
McClarty was enthusiastic about his appointment.
“I was quite happy to sit on the sidelines and watch, but when this opportunity became available I jumped at the chance,” he said.
“I believe the club has great potential.
“If we could get a few players back who have left the club for various reasons, we could be very strong.”
Furthermore, Mr Filko added Rick Leonard coming in as assistant coach is a “huge bonus”.
“He will bolster the hitting and pitching stocks of the club and has much to offer in enthusiasm and ability,” he said.
Leonard played for the club a number of years ago, but was troubled by arm problems.
He returned to GGCD where he played division one and two and coached the division three and division four teams in the past two years.
“I believe I have a lot to offer the club,” Leonard said.
“In fact, although I’m 31-yearsold I think I am just coming to my peak and really looking forward to the challenge.”
McClarty and Leonard were introduced to club players and members last Thursday evening at the Karbeethan Reserve clubrooms.
