The 11’s team. Photo by Noel Rowsell
ST MARYS Baseball Club, affectionately known as the Saints, is enjoying a resurgence that few community sporting clubs ever get the chance to experience.
Founded in 1964 by local Ron Webster, the club began after Webster discovered baseball whilst serving in Japan following World War II. Bringing the game back to St Marys, his passion helped create a club that has since become a cornerstone of grassroots sport in the area.
The Saints grew steadily through the 1970s and 1980s under the leadership of president Barry Robson. Monfarville Reserve became the club’s permanent home, and generations of local players proudly wore the Saints’ green and white.
Like many community clubs, the Saints have also faced their share of challenges. By the late 2000s, player numbers had fallen dramatically, dropping to fewer than 50 by 2009. A committed group of volunteers stepped in to rebuild, and by 2013 the club had once again grown to more than 200 players.
The biggest test came during the COVID-19 pandemic, when sport across the country was brought to a standstill. Competitions were cancelled, players drifted away and finances became dire. At one stage, the Saints were left with just six registered players and less than $40 in the bank.
What followed was a remarkable community-driven recovery. Support from St Marys Leagues Club proved vital, keeping the club afloat and giving it the opportunity to rebuild.
Today, that support and hard work is paying off. The Saints are fielding six junior teams and, on top of that, three senior teams during the current summer season. Heading into the second half of the 2026 season, all three senior teams are sitting in the top three of their respective divisions – a proud achievement for a club that was fighting for survival only a few years ago.
The club’s junior pathways are also thriving. Saints juniors Harrison Fisher, Jazmine Zarglis, Hannah Parkinson and Isabelle McMahon have all been selected in the Greater Western Baseball Representative Squads, a significant milestone for both the players and the club.
Recent investment from Penrith Council has further strengthened the Saints’ future, with a new clubhouse and dugouts at Monfarville Reserve now providing a welcoming hub for players, families and supporters.
Strong community backing continues off the field as well. Astley Mobility and St Marys Village have joined St Marys Leagues Club as Gold Sponsors this season, helping ensure the club remains sustainable and accessible for local families.
From its humble beginnings in 1964, through the challenges of recent years, to its current revival, St Marys Baseball Club stands as a shining example of what community spirit can achieve.
The club is looking for players of all ability levels to help fill teams for the upcoming Winter season. Whether you’re an experienced player or keen to give baseball a try, they’d love to hear from you. All enquiries to vpseniors.saintsbaseball@gmail.com
