I am currently the secretary for Plymouth Civil Service & Roborough Cricket Club, a role I have held for over 15 years following the amalgamation of two well established clubs in 2010. I played a key role in this and helped secure a new ground. Today it is pleasing to see our club thriving following these initiatives.
Over more than 55 years involvement in cricket, I have taken on many roles - including Treasurer, Safeguarding Officer, Scorer and ‘tea lady’.
My passion for cricket began when PE lessons included cricket at my all-girls’ secondary school. Later, after meeting my future, cricket fanatic husband, I often stepped in as a substitute fielder and even played a few whole matches. Our son inherited our love of the game and played for Cornwall Schools and later become 1st XI captain. Ex-England captain, Heather Knight also played for our club as a young teenager which just goes to show how far girls can go in this wonderful sport.
I am proud to have run the All-Stars programme for its first three years, and it is incredibly rewarding to now see some of those young players progressing into regular senior cricket.
I have been fortunate to have been awarded an OSCA for Behind the Scenes, a Grassroots Lifetime Achievement award and, last year, had the honour of being elected one of the ECB’s Honorary Life Vice-Presidents.
For me, whether playing or working behind the scenes, a lifetime involvement in cricket has been rewarding, fun, fulfilling and created lifelong friendships. I feel privileged to have contributed to a game that continues to grow especially for women and girls.
To all women and girls; there is a place for you in cricket - whether playing, volunteering or working in the game. You can start at any time, and it will enrich your life as much as the club you join.