Awarded at last night’s AGM, the UMBC committee is proud to announce James Dann’s installation as a Life Member of the University of Melbourne Baseball Club!
James joined the club in 2009 and has played consistently since then. James has played predominantly in the Third IX and managed the team in multiple seasons. He won the club’s Roy Gross Memorial Award for Most Improved Player in 2009. He’s represented the club at Winter State Carnivals in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
James has also played a leadership role in growing and fostering the club’s connection to Uni Games, as a player (2009, 2010 – bronze medal, 2011, 2019), coach (2012 – gold medal, 2013 – gold medal, 2014 – bronze medal, 2015), and manager (2019). In 2013, the Uni Games team James coached was awarded UniMelb Sport Team of the Year, and in 2019 he was awarded a Half Blue by Melbourne University Sport.
Remarkably, James stepped up to the presidency of the club in just his second season in 2010, and served in the role for three seasons. During this time, he built significant relationships that have impacted the club long after his time in formal leadership, including the Clyde and between UMBC and Williamstown Baseball Club.
Perhaps James’ most significant impact is one that’s most difficult to quantify, and that’s his contribution to the club’s culture. James’ openness, friendliness and supportive nature have helped to create an environment that’s welcoming, inclusive, and encouraging of player development. He’s lived these values over his time at the club, and it’s a great example to everyone.
James Dann has played a significant role in both the on-field and off-field success of the University of Melbourne Baseball Club since he first joined in 2009. It’s our pleasure to present James for Life Membership of the club.
James’s nomination was put forward by Daniel Chircop and Tom Andronas, and supported by Allen Stephens and Hiroshi Narasaki. We congratulate him, thank him for his contribution to the club over many years, and look forward to many more!