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Sprays of water from the sprinklers formed a backdrop for play, but didn’t distract the primary school cricketers from their games. An Orewa Primary fielder just misses a successful run out of his Silverdale opponent. Kingsway Primary’s Timothy Jung faces his first ball watched by Caleb Round from Gulf Harbour behind the wicket. A record number of players took to the pitches of Metro Park in Millwater for the Year 5 and 6 Cricket Zone Day on November 7.
A total of 35 teams took part – nine more than the year before – including young players from nine local primary schools.
The competition had a competitive and social boys’ division, as well as a girls’ division.
The high number of competitive boys’ teams meant there was no time for a final, so Dairy Flat and Gulf Harbour shared the top spot.
Red Beach School’s girls’ team won undefeated.
Hibiscus Coast Cricket Club manager Gair McSkimming says the competition’s growth is due to the club’s increased investment in promoting cricket at schools.
“We now have two people employed full time just to engage local schools in cricket, with the hope of keeping kids in the game both at school and through the club,” Gair says.
“We are working hard to create a pathway for players to reach the highest level, without having to leave the Hibiscus Coast.”
The club’s top team will be elevated to premier status next year.
“That’s great news for us, because from a premier team you can go on to play for Auckland, and then the next step could be becoming a Black Cap,” Gair says.
While the Zone Day sported many examples of outstanding play, Gair says the most impressive aspect of the competition was the sportsmanship displayed amongst the teams.
“Many studies show that kids around this age participate in sport to enjoy themselves and to hang out with their mates. Therefore, it was fantastic to see the teams focus on having fun and encouraging each other to do their best.”
