The Claxton Shield has only been won by the Canberra Cavalry once in the past. That was in the 2012-2013 season. Photo: Canberra Cavalry.
There is a sense of history repeating itself as the Canberra Cavalry prepares to play Perth in the Australian Baseball League in the championship decider.
The Cavalry made it through with a series win over the Sydney Blue Sox at the Blacktown International Sports Park, providing the Canberra franchise with an opportunity to win their first ABL title in 12 years.
In 2012-13, the Canberra Cavalry accounted for Perth to secure the Claxton Shield.
Current Cavalry captain Robbie Perkins was a member of the squad. It was the only time Canberra won the title.
“Twelve years ago, I was actually part of the team but unfortunately got hurt early in the season and didn’t get to play much,” Perkins said.
“I was a part of our first championship, but this one would feel a little different to be out there playing.”
For club co-owners Paul Kelly and Adrian Dart, just making it through to the finals is an achievement in itself after a series of obstacles put the future of the franchise in doubt.
Dart said many sacrifices have been made to get the team to this point.
“It’s definitely vindication,” he said.
“Coming into this season, it felt like everything was against us. My wife and I made the big decision to put our lives on hold and give everything to this team. We stuck to a tight budget, cut the waste, paid the bills and have the team in a winning position. Win or lose this weekend, all around, this has been a very successful season”.
Canberra Cavalry head coach Jim Bennett. Photo: Supplied.
It’s the first time the Cavalry has made the finals in seven years.
One of the reasons for the turnaround in fortunes has been the recruitment of decorated coach Jim Bennett. Perkins believes it has been pivotal to the Cavalry’s success.
“I think the biggest change this year has just been a fresh perspective created by Jim. We’ve had the pieces in previous years, and he’s just been a new, fresh voice to direct us where we need to go.”
That fresh voice has guided the Cavalry through plenty of hurdles this season.
The barriers placed in front of the Canberra team continue into the best-of-three finals series, with all three games being played in Perth.
Adrian Dart said he can understand the reasoning behind the ABL’s decision to play in the West.
“Obviously, we would love to have a game in Canberra, but logistically, financially, and in the best interest of our players’ welfare, it makes absolute sense not to. Also, Perth finished above us, and in sport, that means you earn a home final.”
Dart believes that a holistic approach with a focus on player welfare adopted at the start is paying dividends.
Jack Mahoney showing Canberra Cavalry form. Photo: David Tate.
“I don’t feel we had a turning point. We just had a season of hot and cold. Luckily, in the end, it was more hot than cold. Making finals was always our plan. Certainly, the new coaching staff made a huge impact on the way we went about it. Our affiliates sent quality players. Our locals played with a new-found enthusiasm, and Jim knew exactly which players to bring in at the end to give us a real shot.”
Robbie Perkins says there is a strong sense of belief in the Cavalry camp heading into the finals.
“Making the finals is what we play for. This league means so much to everyone, so to be in the finals with a chance to bring home the Claxton Shield just summarises every reason we come back year after year.”
The ABL finals series starts on Thursday night in Perth.
Want to watch the Cavs take on the Perth Heat? Visit the ABL’s streaming platform Baseball+.
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