Softballers Corey Hallion and Billy Sinclair represent WA at national championships

Corey Hallion was picked for the Western Australia Under 17s’ Men’s Softball team to compete in January’s national championships in Blacktown, New South Wales.

The team finished fifth behind Queensland, Australian Capital Territory, NSW and Victoria. 

“We came last but it was good fun and a good experience,” Hallion said. 

Hallion was chosen for the WA U17s’ side in 2017, participating in last year’s national championships in the ACT.

Hallion’s family inspired him to pick up the bat, ball and glove at the age of five, going on to play for Dalyellup. “I have grown up with it and it’s good fun,” he said. 

The 15-year-old urged anyone interested in the sport to work hard and keep going at it. 

The athlete juggles a variety of sports including softball, cricket, indoor beach volleyball and football. 

Corey’s mother Rachel Hallion said she was proud of her son’s efforts. “It is really awesome and I am very proud of him, he has come a long way,” she said. 

“I love the game, I have been playing since I was kid. “Corey plays a lot of different sports and he’s great with any ball he picks up.” 

Billy Sinclair was selected for the U19s’ WA Men’s Softball squad to play for the Nox Bailey Shield last month. 

Both players star for the Bunbury Wanderers in the Bunbury and Districts Softball Association senior men’s competition. 

Bunbury and Districts Softball Association president Warren Jones said Hallion and Sinclair served as inspiration for the younger players. 

“It is a bit of a proud moment for us and for the association,” he said. “One of our long-term objectives, of course, is to get more people into those state teams whenever we possibly can.”

He said the association was working towards attaining more experienced personnel to help increase the players’ skill levels.

“We are trying to build a culture within the organisation and also develop a family-friendly environment,” Mr Jones said. 

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