On Sunday 24th May a girls’ U13 cricket festival was held at Abbots Langley Cricket Ground. 8 teams took part in the tournament with between 85-90 girls playing throughout the day. Phil Lewins (Abbots Langley U13 Coach) organised the day and despite it being a Bank Holiday weekend and the start of Half Term was determined that it would be all girls (with no boys to make up the numbers).
Played under Kwik Cricket rules, the girls’ enthusiasm and obvious enjoyment epitomised the game’s main aim, namely ‘the enjoyment for, and fair play by, all players’. Every member of every team regardless of size, strength or ability is actively encouraged to take part. The vocal encouragement both on the field of play and from the many family members watching echoed around the ground all day. I spoke to family members and coaches as I walked around the ground and their enthusiasm, commitment and support are key to the continuing success of Girls’ Cricket in the County.
Despite a determined and spirited campaign by Abbots Langley U13 (current holders of the Soroptimist Audrey Collins Trophy) The Ballinger Waggoners team were the eventual winners. They were a focused and accomplished team both in the field and with bat – deserving winners.
This tournament was a splendid endorsement to continue our Club’s sponsorship and support for Girls’ Cricket in the County. A fitting tribute to Audrey Collins – past member of Soroptimist International St Albans and District, herself a pioneer of Women’s Cricket and a trail blazer for women. For more about Audrey and the Club’s support for Girls’ cricket please click on this link.
Report by Jennie Redford – Member of Soroptimist International St Albans and District