The former Sydney Grade Baseballer Bert Alderson turns 100 on 14th December, 2024. In a long career with Sydney University, Bert a left-hand batter and short stop played with great consistency.

He played in the era when baseball was a winter sport and a large number of baseballers played cricket in summer. He covered his position very effectively and was quite outstanding in hitting the pitched ball to left field. He was awarded his Blue for Baseball in 1951

Bert attended Sydney University to complete his degree in Engineering in Seasons 1951-1952 and 1952-1953, returning as graduate captain of the Cricket First XI for five seasons in the 1960’s between 1961-1962 and 1965-1966.

After graduation Bert played Baseball for Sydney University where he was a fixture for many years as the First Grade short stop. His consistency and high performance were rewarded with selection in the NSW Claxton Shield team in 1961.

Bert’s consistency and high performance were rewarded with selection in the NSW Claxton Shield team in 1961. He was aged 36 at this stage and the selection may have come years earlier had Bert been prepared to play on Sunday, which he was not.

Bert’s brother Ken, also played for the University as first grade catcher in the 1950’s was a Baseball Blue, and also followed a similar career path to Bert.

In cricket Bert played A.W. Green Shield for Central Cumberland, now Parramatta, in 1939-1940 season. Bert also played some Shires and 4th grade that season, while still a student at Parramatta High.

He played twenty seasons in First Grade at Central Cumberland from 1941-1942 until 1973-1974, plus seven seasons with Sydney University. At Cumberland he amassed 7740 runs @ 28.04. His career continued until 1973-1974, his fiftieth year.

Away from his baseball and cricket activities Bert Alderson worked for the Holroyd Shire Council, where he became their Chief Engineer. His contribution in the area was honoured with the naming of the Grandstand at Merrylands Oval being named “The Bert Alderson Stand”.

Bert’s Brother Ken also played some seasons for Sydney University as First Grade catcher in the 1950’s

All Cynics will salute Bert on his century of life, particularly those who has the pleasure of playing against him and knowing him.

Hartley Anderson

A Century of Cricket and Baseball and Life- Happy 100th Birthday Bert Alderson