Schools success in awards spotlight
The county’s cricketing unsung heroes, volunteers, clubs and top performers were all celebrated at the Cricket Shropshire annual presentation evening.
More than 200 people were present on the night at the Albrighton Hall Hotel near Shrewsbury as dozens of awards were handed out.
Chair Adrian Collins praised all the clubs and volunteers across Shropshire as the lifeblood of the game.
The first set of awards were in the Schools category and were presented by the Board’s Director of Schools Simon James.
Cricket Shropshire’s Community Coach Tim Bellet said: “Schools play such an important role in introducing young people to cricket.”
He said the Primary award went to St Mary’s Catholic School in Telford, with teacher Christine Brazier taking the individual award.
“Through its enthusiasm for the game and its commitment to our Chance to Shine programme and school competitions, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School has given so many children the opportunity to pick up a bat and ball, learn new skills, and discover a love of cricket.
“The school has also promoted its local cricket club, encouraging children to continue enjoying the game beyond the school gates.
“It’s clear that cricket has become a valued part of school life at St Mary’s, and that’s only possible because of the support and effort of the whole school community.”
“Of course, behind every successful school cricket programme is a teacher who gives their time, energy and encouragement to make it happen – someone who sees the value of cricket and works hard to ensure children have the chance to enjoy it.
“At St Mary’s, that person is Christine Brazier.
“Christine has been a valued supporter of cricket and the Chance to Shine programme, creating opportunities for children to take part, develop their confidence and enjoy being part of a team.
“Her commitment has helped make cricket a real success within the school and has had a lasting impact on the children she works with.”
The Secondary School of the year award went to Burton Borough School at Newport with teacher Elliot Murphy picking up the individual award – although they were unable to attend on the night.
Cricket Shropshire’s Tyler Ibbotson said: “We’d like to say a heartfelt thank you to Burton Borough School and Elliot Murphy for their commitment to Cricket Shropshire and for working so closely with Shannon on the Newport project.
“It means so much to have your support, and we’re really pleased to recognise you with our Secondary School of the Year and Teacher of the Year awards — congratulations to you all!”
Tyler, who is also the Board’s Inclusion Officer, then presented the SEND School and SEND Teacher of the Year awards to Charlton School in Wellington and Holly Fozzard.
He said: “Charlton School and Holly as teacher have put so much care into helping their SEND students develop through cricket, entering every competition and encouraging them to get involved.
“Holly and everyone at Charlton, thank you for all the hard work you put in — we’re so pleased to celebrate you with our SEND School of the Year and Teacher of the Year awards!”
Look out for more coverage from the awards in the coming days.
Pictures courtesy of Brian Clarke at KidzInFocus – email brian.clarke@kidzinfocus.co.uk