Skills and smiles for all-abilities squad

LAST Sunday North Ballarat Cricket Club hosted try-outs for their all-abilities cricket team which is set to play division one of the Melbourne All-Abilities Cricket Association competition.

Director of cricket Adam Eddy said it was a fun and positive morning full of smiles and skills.

“We had 20 trying out, and another five are interested that couldn’t make it,” he said.

“We’ve had 18 to 20 year olds, up to 50s and 60s here today, and a good mix of male and female players which is even more exciting.

“The numbers we’ve got are very positive, and the talent we’ve got has surprised all of us. They’ve got great skills and attitudes ahead of round one on Sunday, 6 December.”

The squad was being chosen this week before NBCC play Yarraville Cricket Club in their first one-day match at the Northern Oval, off Creswick Road.

“We have a bye the week after, and then there are three more games in February. Division one will be very competitive,” Mr Eddy said.

Gordon Smith plays for the team and said he is “ecstatic” that the all-abilities initiative is in action and others are as enthusiastic as him.

“I’m over the moon to see the involvement. This gives me more of an outlet to express and show the way I play, bat and bowl,” he said.

“I’m a sports nut. I love the great camaraderie and mateship of cricket, having chats before and after the game.

“It’s fantastic to be getting out and doing something instead of being at home doing nothing.”

Smith said the team and competition opportunities are positive for the whole city.

“It’s what we need because we don’t have a lot in the realm of disability sports. Any people with a disability that don’t think they have any avenue, this gives them something, whether they’re male, female or transgender.

“Some people at the try-outs had never played before and were picking up a bat for the first time. They had big smiles on their faces. It’s great to see, and it makes me feel like I’m on top of the world,” he said.

“The more people we have involved in our team, the better. It’s something to accomplish and feel really proud of.”

NBCC are seeking volunteers and sponsors to support them through the 2020-2021 MAACA competition season and beyond.

Visit facebook.com/northballaratcc for more information and to make contact.