Cricket fans following the women’s matches screened on TV will know how exciting they are to watch and clearly see the skill shown. A new era of women’s cricket has been ushered in, and Ocean Grove Cricket Club has been quick to respond, with a senior women’s team introduced two years ago to great success.
Now the club’s attention is turning to attracting more young girls who love swinging the bat, bowling down the pitch, and going for the catch.
Club president John Giuffrida says the first girls’ team kicked off in 2017.
“We’re now looking to see even more young girls and women take up the game,” John says. “We already have two girls’ teams on board, who join our existing seven junior boys’ teams, the senior women’s, and four senior men’s teams.
“We also have more than 36 ‘Woolies Blast’ participants, with Woolworths supporting our junior program – call the club for details.”
Established in 1953, Ocean Grove Cricket Club – ‘The Grubbers’ – originally came about to support a growing need in the community for more sport. It now offers the great game of cricket to people aged from seven to 70.
The senior women’s team, along with the under 17 (stage 3) girls team had great success last season, both placing as runners-up in their respective competitions. With the movement of some of the older players out of the stage 3 team, John says the club is particularly keen to welcome girls aged 14 to 17 to join.
“No previous experience is necessary, with equipment available for new players and coaches who want to ensure that the girls have fun while developing their skills.”
Also, with the 2019-20 season ending abruptly due to COVID-19 and opportunities missed for the B and C grades men’s teams to play off in a grand final, the club is fully focused on getting the 2020-21 season off to a flying start.
“We think the smell of fresh-cut grass and seeing kids playing in the sun gives us something to look forward to at this post-COVID time,” John notes.
He says that the reappointment of the club coach has added on-field stability, and the committee plans for further overall club success in all grades, and greater integration with the juniors (boys and girls).
“It’s looking to be a great season for the Ocean Grove Cricket Club and its supporters.”
Worth noting: Thursday night meals are back, $30 for a family, $12 for adults, and $5 for kids.
Ocean Grove Cricket Club, Shell Oval, Ocean Grove. Inquiries: 0450 225 018 (John), 0431 332 235 (Lea) or www.oceangrovecricket.com.au
