FEW other sports allow members of different generations to come together and share experiences quite like cricket.
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Parents and grandparents are often given the opportunity to play alongside children and grandchildren, sometimes less than half their age.
It’s in this vein that the Gunnedah District Cricket Association is urging more families to don the whites and take to the field in the competition’s second grade.
Recently, a second grade clash between Court House and Mornington featured 12 relatives playing with and against each other.
Gunnedah Junior Cricket Association president Andrew Johns said playing alongside his own son was an “unbelievable experience”.
“It’s so great to pass on some of the things I’ve learnt during my years of playing cricket to the kids we have playing with us,” Johns said.
“I think their enthusiasm often rubs off on some of us older guys as well.
“Really, there are so many benefits to having a blend of older guys and younger kids playing together.”
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So far this season, both Gunnedah junior and senior teams have struggled with player depth, with several teams having to play undermanned.
“I think most sports and teams across the region are experiencing a shortage of playing numbers,” Johns said.
“Cricket is no different, however, hopefully by having a few more parents and their kids involved we can help to not only secure more playing numbers in the short term, but give them an enjoyable experience to keep them coming back.”
Gunnedah District Cricket Association president Brad Gander said the inclusion of younger players in second grade would “help ensure the longevity” of Gunnedah’s senior teams.
“One thing that can’t be taught is experience, but having some older heads around while you are learning the game is invaluable,” Gander said.
“It also provides a flow on effect for the senior clubs, that sort of exposure to playing on turf at a young age will hold them in good stead when they get to the senior ranks.
“We have seen it work before, for example at my club Court House, a few years ago our second grade was filled with mostly younger guys who have now gone on to play in first grade.”
Johns said: “It’s certainly a family affair at the moment.”
“It really is great to see not just young kids, but grown up sons playing with their dads,” he said.
“There’s so much the younger guys can learn, and it doesn’t always come from their relative either, often the other older guys can pass on some useful stuff as well.
“We certainly want to see more of it so if anyone wants to get involved feel free to get in touch and we can help out.”
- For more information contact the Gunnedah Junior Cricket Association via their Facebook page.