The club was established earlier this year, aiming to boost a resurgence in community interest and support after twenty years without organised cricket in the Teviot Valley. The funding will go towards uniforms and essential playing equipment, lowering the financial barriers that come with starting a club from scratch. Club secretary Joshua Murray said the support was crucial for a new organisation. ‘‘As a new club, we can’t afford essential uniforms and equipment without external support. This funding will help make cricket more affordable and
accessible in our first season.’’ Club president James Hill said the grant did more than ease financial stress — it allowed the club to focus on building something lasting. ‘‘Starting a new club comes with a lot of costs, especially for uniforms and playing equipment, so support like this takes a huge amount of pressure off both the players and the club financially. It means we can focus on building something sustainable and creating a good environment for people to be part of. This isn’t
just about cricket. It’s about bringing people together again, giving the community something to get behind and creating opportunities for local players to represent the Teviot Valley close to home.’’ The grant will also free up club funds to improve the local wicket and facilities. For newer players, the support is already making a difference. First-year cricketer Scott Muir said: ‘‘As someone who is new to cricket, support towards uniforms and equipment makes a massive difference. Starting a new sport can be daunting, especially when
gear is involved, so having that support makes it much easier to give it a go. The club has already been really welcoming and I think lowering those barriers will encourage more people who haven’t played before to come along and be part of it.’’ Young local Regan Hill, who is playing alongside his father and brother, said: ‘‘I never really thought there would be a chance to play cricket for the Teviot Valley as an adult, so it is pretty special to see the
club come back.’’ NZCT general manager Ben Hodges said the trust was pleased to back a club that gave locals a reason to come together and play sport close to home. carys.trotter@odt.co.nz
Teviot Valley, cricket club, NZCT, Joshua Murray, James Hill, Scott Muir, Regan Hill, Ben Hodges, uniforms, equipment, wicket, facilities