Baseball Victoria sends condolences to the family and friends of Les Polson, who passed away on Saturday at age 88.
Les was an instrumental figure in Victorian baseball, particularly with the development of junior competitions and representative opportunities. Affectionately referred to as the “Godfather of Junior Baseball,” Les will be greatly missed and remembered fondly by all who knew him.
An iconic individual with a deeply-rooted love for the game, Les spent decades at the helm of junior competitions and Victorian state teams. He took his players to great heights, even leading multiple team trips to the U.S. alongside close friend Ray Baker.
Les was welcomed as a Baseball Victoria Life Member in 1992, and he was also a life member of the Moorrabin Panthers, his beloved local club where he coached juniors. He served on the BV Board for many years as he strived to make a difference in the baseball world and grow the sport, especially at the junior level. Hundreds of young players looked up to Les, learning from his positivity and never-ending determination that he displayed so greatly as the longtime U16 State Team Manager.
Les was a member of the VBA Junior League and treasurer/finance manager of VBA for many years. Known as a guru of Victorian U16s baseball, Les had an uncanny ability to spot talented players and promote their growth and development, which has undoubtedly had a long-lasting impact on junior baseball throughout Victoria.
Baseball Victoria’s VSBL clubs observed a moment’s silence on Sunday, as the Melbourne Aces did on Saturday night. Many of these players and families have been directly or indirectly affected by the mighty effort of Les over many years.
On behalf of the baseball community, we would like to extend our condolences and remember Les for his true love of baseball and his contributions to his favourite sport. We send our well wishes to his grieving family and friends at this time.
Please note that at the request of Les and his family, there will be no funeral service.
