A leadership role has been thrust upon Werribee Giants import Chad Northcott – and he’s happy to oblige.
At 23, Northcott is one of the elder statesmen in a team with a bevy of teenagers. It’s a new role for the Canadian, who arrived in Melbourne after a playing stint in Europe where he was one of the younger members of the squad.
“It is a bit strange,” he told the Weekly. “Coming from Europe, there was a couple of us who were 23; we were the youngest by far.
“To switch over, I’m one of the older guys. It’s a bit of a change, but it’s nice to kind of be a leader and get these guys going in the right direction.
“I’ve never really been the vocal guy. I usually try to lead by example.”
The Northcott name is not new to the Giants. Northcott’s older brother, Dustin, recommended him to the club after playing there a couple of years ago.
Dustin’s appraisal of club, city and country was glowing. “He just had good things to say about Werribee and the club,” Northcott said.
“He had all good things to say about Australia. It’s a big part of why I came over.”
Northcott is a utility in every sense of the word. You can plug him into offence, defence or on the mound and he will do the job.
“He’s been good for us in a number of areas, not just pitching but also his defensive work as a middle infielder and his ability as a hitter,” Giants coach Phil Balzer says.
“Often with imports they can only do one of a certain role, but Chad actually fills a couple of roles for us.
“His pitching is above average, at times outstanding. His hitting is just as good. His curve ball and change-up are exceptional; his accuracy is as good as I’ve seen.”
Northcott, who played college ball in the United States at Iowa and Louisiana, describes it as a “privilege” to play overseas. While he misses family, he left with their blessing. He says he has been made to feel at home with the Box family in Wyndhamvale, who have strong connections to the Giants.
Northcott sees a high ceiling for this young Giants squad. Finals are definitely on his radar.
“I feel really good about this season – we’re going to do some good things.”
