No boundaries but runs on the board

Five years ago the club decided the Manningham community needed an avenue for people of an intellectual or physical disability to access cricket.

“We as a club have a strong community focus, so we wanted to do something about all abilities cricket,” East Doncaster Cricket Club President Darren Bourke said.

With a strong influence from club members, the ‘no boundaries’ cricket program was formed.

What started as a modified cricket program for the residents of Onemda, a centre for people with a disability, has now grown to running five programs across the Manningham region. 

Staged at Heatherwood and Bulleen Heights secondary special schools, the program is based on MILO in2CRICKET and is catered to two groups, year 7-9 and 10-12.  

“Since its inception, we’ve seen the program grow from having eight participants to over 50,” Bourke said.

“It’s really exploded.”

Coordinated by East Doncaster’s Matthew Bremner and Matthew Vaiano, the ‘no boundaries’ cricket program introduces modified ball, batting and bowling skills to the participants.

Recently, the club was successful in receiving Cricket Victoria’s Strategic Grants Fund for the program.

East Doncaster received $1500 to help supply equipment for the program and continue to create an interest in all abilities cricket. 

“Some of the kids that have participated in our program have joined clubs in their local areas,” Bourke said.

“If we can encourage them to continue to pursue an interest in cricket, then that’s just great.”