Community cricketers receive much needed government boost

Cricket clubs right across the state have received a $1,000 grant from the Victorian Government delivering just under $750,000 directly to community cricket clubs to support them through the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Community cricket associations also benefited from the Victorian Government support program with 17 associations, including the Melbourne All-Abilities Cricket Association, sharing in a total of almost $80,000 to support ongoing operational viability.

Cricket clubs and associations across the state felt the impact of the pandemic early with grand final matches abandoned, end of year functions cancelled or conducted online, indoor cricket centres closed and all winter cricket leagues abandoned. In their broader role, cricket clubs are also community hubs, points of social connection and extended networks of support for members.

Cricket Victoria CEO Andrew Ingleton said “the Victorian Government’s support for community sport and State Sporting Associations in what are unprecedented and difficult times has been enormous. This funding provides a significant boost in ensuring our clubs and associations are best placed to reactivate and get back to playing cricket when it is safe to do so.”

Clubs and Associations are now preparing for what will be a very different summer season once restrictions are gradually eased.

Melbourne All-Abilities Cricket Association (MAACA) Secretary Chris Lane said the funding would be critical to maintaining specialised programs for the all abilities community.

“Without this support from the Victorian Government, it would have been difficult to run a season when we are able to get back out and play. Clubs rely on financial support provided by MAACA to ensure the ongoing success of their all abilities programs and this will enable us to keep planning for whenever it is safe for cricket to return,” Mr Lane said.

The Victorian Government also announced more than $12.7 million in grants for state sport associations, state sport and recreation bodies and regional academies including Cricket Victoria.

This grant will assist Cricket Victoria in its ongoing support and assistance to grassroots clubs and associations.