WITH the upcoming cricket season fast approaching, the Gunnedah Junior Cricket Association is calling on more local kids to get involved in the game.
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Doubt surrounded the junior cricket season earlier this year with volunteer numbers dwindling.
However, following a call to arms from the association, support flowed in to ensure the season went ahead on schedule.
Andrew Johns was one of 12 people to attend the association’s special general meeting last month and was elected president for the season.
“It’s really pleasing to have a new committee for the season,” Mr Johns said.
“Now that is in place, our focus now turns to getting more kids involved across all of our age levels.
“At this stage we only have 27 kids registered from junior blasters up to under 16s.”
The push for more junior players to get involved comes off the back of all four Gunnedah senior cricket clubs experiencing a shortage of players.
“I think most sports across the region are feeling the pinch in terms of player numbers and I think both junior and senior cricket are no different,” Mr Johns said.
“I don’t think any sport is immune, that’s why it is so important to get as many kids involved as possible and continue to encourage them to enjoy their cricket.”
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Mr Johns said the uncertainty of player numbers would make it difficult for the association to format the season.
“We will be able to make a decision regarding the format of the competitions once we have an idea of numbers,” he said.
“At this stage we are looking at having some age groups play on Friday nights while others will play on Saturday morning, but that decision will be made once we have an idea of numbers.
“Until then we will be doing what we can to try and encourage as many boys and girls to get involved and play some cricket.”
The new committee will use a working bee at Donnelly Fields on Sunday as an opportunity to encourage locals to get involved.
“As well as getting the facility ready for the season, we will also have the computer handy to help families register their kids for the season,” Mr Johns said.
“We are really focused on building a strong family atmosphere and culture throughout the association this season and hopefully this working bee should be a good start.
“There will also be a come and try day on October 19 at Donnelly Fields which should also help to get kids involved.”
- The Gunnedah Junior Cricket Association working bee kicks off at Donnelly Fields from 9am on Sunday
- The come and try junior cricket day begins at 4.45pm at Donnelly Fields on Friday October 19