EMERGENCE OF VETERANS CRICKET IN THE EAST RAND |
|
|
08/19/2023POSTED BY Admin Vets League |
|
 |
|
Cricket squads hailing from the East Rand took part in the Lions Veterans League in the 2022/23 campaign. Within the course of this competition, an appeal was made to create a Veterans Cricket Association on the East Rand. This appeal was relayed to the Lions Veteran Cricket Executive, leading to subsequent deliberations with VCASA (Veterans Cricket Association of South Africa). Ultimately, the request garnered approval. The dedicated efforts spearheaded by Alwyn Labuschagne played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for what is currently recognized as the East Rand Veterans Cricket Association. The incorporation of the East Rand Vets into the Over 40 Interprovincial tournament, which took place at the Wanderers Club in May 2023, marked the debut of a team predominantly comprised of lesser-known individuals competing on a national stage. The team had no explicitly outlined anticipations. The management motivated the group, comprising 16 pre-chosen players, to embody the core principles and ethics of cricket. They were urged to consistently display their optimal performance with a resolute winning mindset. During the tournament, the team showcased exceptional performance, advancing to the final against Western Province. While Western Province emerged as the winners, there were moments in the game when victory could have readily favoured the East Rand team. Kyle Smit and Pieter Booysen, hailing from the East Rand, have been chosen to join the SA Over 40’s squad. Additionally, Johan van Rooyen has been selected to be part of the Over 40’s SA Invitational squad. Undoubtedly, the East Rand Veteran cricketers are a formidable presence deserving of recognition. Brendan Stolle, the Chairman of the East Rand Veterans Cricket Association, expresses his immense pride in the team, his fellow board members, the coach, and team management. He commended their role in orchestrating a highly successful tournament, one that elevated the reputation of the East Rand with distinction.  LOCAL EAST RAND VETERANS CRICKET LEAGUE Following the Interprovincial tournament, the ERVCA has taken the initiative to establish an Over 40’s Veterans League featuring 8 teams. The inaugural East Rand Veterans Cricket League is scheduled to kick off on August 20th, spanning a duration of 8 weeks. All matches will be hosted at Christian Brothers’ College Boksburg, affectionately referred to as CBC Boksburg. The league matches are slated to take place on Sundays. Ivan Henn and Shane Savage, who serve on the Executive, have conveyed their belief that Veterans cricket in the East Rand is on the verge of a significant surge. The level of enthusiasm displayed has been truly remarkable. This development not only promises to expand Veterans cricket in the East Rand but also elevate the level of competitiveness to new heights. The Management team is already strategizing for upcoming tournaments and holds a strong belief that they will establish a formidable presence that commands respect. Coach and Mentor, Gavin Ferreira, expressed his unwavering dedication to collaborating with upcoming teams. He conveyed his delight and pride in having had the privilege to work with the team that recently represented the East Rand in the Interprovincial tournament. Brendan envisions that the veterans league will draw in not only players but also their spouses and families, creating an engaging environment. “This league will provide a space for older players who retain a desire for competitiveness in a sport they hold dear. The presence of these veterans can serve as inspiration for younger generations, including their own children who we hope to see next to the field. We wholeheartedly invite families to join us and provide their support”. Currently, we are actively preparing for the forthcoming Over 50's tournament scheduled for October. We extend an invitation to all Over 50 players who are interested to get in touch with us. For more information on VCASA (Veterans Cricket Association of South Africa), please visit www.vcasa.co.za. ERVCA contact details: Brendan Stolle – 0824116723 Alwyn Labuschagne – 0767119127 Ivan Henn – 0721407833 Shane Savage – 0824956629 Gavin Ferreira - 0634167692 |
|
| You can also enter comments by CricClubs Login | ||
|
||
