Celebration of Women & Girls cricket in Shropshire
Cricket Shropshire’s Women & Girls’ Awards Evening was a fantastic celebration of a brilliant season recognising team and individual success.
The event at the Albrighton Hall Hotel near Shrewsbury was also a chance to thank all those who work so hard behind the scenes to make sure we can Get the Game On.
Women and Girls’ officer Naomi Payne said: “It’s been yet another mega summer for women and girls’ cricket across Shropshire.
“Between both women and girls’, we have played nearly 400 games of cricket across many different formats.
“We have seen 28 women’s teams, 16 girls’ teams, a record number of girls playing junior cricket as well as a record number of females in open-age league cricket.
“With all of that said, none of that would have been possible without the help and support from a number of people.
So, thanks the many coaches who have helped develop those women and girls, the team managers for all the hours in the background, the grounds staff for delivering equal playing opportunities and pitches, the volunteers who have given up their Sundays and evenings to score and officiate and, of course, to the parents, wives, husbands and grandparents for their excellent taxi work.”
“Also, special thank you to our sponsors, Strategic Leisure for their ongoing support. Without them, many of our events, including the festivals and indoor leagues, would not be possible.”
The first section of the awards was dedicated to the Girls’ teams.
Girls’ U12 Softball League – Allscott Heath
Naomi said: With six wins out of seven, it’s fair to say this developing team have enjoyed their season. The girls have put in good performances with the bat and ball, resulting in five of their players ending in the Batting Hall of Fame and five in the Bowling Hall of Fame, winning the league with 24 points.”
Girls’ U12 Hardball League – Allscott Heath Sugar
Naomi said: “A team once again filled with a number of high-quality young girls, our U12 hardball league winners went through the Summer without losing a game – not as easy feat when up against a host of talented opposition. Once again, the team was well represented within the Halls of Fame showing just how impressive they all are.”
Girls’ U14 Softball League – Allscott Heath
Naomi said: “This was one of our new leagues – implemented to give new teams and new-to-cricket girls the opportunity to play.
“Despite a handful of logistical hurdles, our winning team shone during their fixtures. Again, not losing a game and demonstrating the vast array of talent at the club.”
Girls’ U14 Hardball League – Allscott Heath Sugar
Noami said: “Another outstanding league filled with plenty of talented youngsters – many of whom represent the County at both EEP and County Age Group level – so the standard was very high with plenty of exciting games.
“However, it was once again dominated by a strong collection of girls from Allscott who have had a number of years playing cricket together.”
Girls’ U17 Hardball League – Sentinel
Naomi said: “This year Sentinel are thoroughly deserving.
“The club have put a lot of time and effort into ensuring a number of girls have been given the opportunity to play the game – many of whom have contributed to an excellent season with zero losses with a host of girls featuring in the Halls of Fame.”
Keep an eye out for more from the Women & Girls’ Awards in the coming days.
Pictures courtesy of Kidz In Focus.
