Cricket recognised in Victorian Sport Awards

There are 18 State Awards to be won – including for the first time community sport and active recreation categories – highlighting outstanding achievement of Victorian individuals, teams, organisations, clubs and events.

This year the Victorian State Government and VicSport have recognised Victorian cricket in four different categories: My Sport Live Victorian Community Coach of the Year, La Trobe University Victorian Young Volunteer of the Year, BLK Victorian Community Sporting Club of the Year Award, and VicHealth Government Initiative of the Year Award.

Hanif’s work with players with intellectual disabilities in Melbourne’s Western suburbs, and coaching the Yarraville Club CC All Abilities team to consecutive undefeated championship winning seasons, has earned him recognition in the Victorian Community Coach of the Year category.

Hanif’s coaching record, which also includes the honour as Victorian Championship coach at the 2017 National Inclusion Championships, is impressive. But importantly, Hanif’s impact has been greater as both a mentor and role model to his players.

Yarraville Club CC has also been recognised in the Community Sporting Club of the Year Award category for their strong commitment to welcoming new people to the game by embracing two all abilities teams and adopting the Harmony in Cricket philosophy of making cricket a sport for all. The club has become a leader in fostering a club culture that welcomes people of all backgrounds and abilities.

Robertshaw has drawn recognition in the Victorian Young Volunteer of the Year category for his role as a junior cricket and football coach at both the Ormond Cricket Club and Ormond Amateur Football Club. At just 19 years old, Robertshaw has quickly gained the respect of his club members and players for his enthusiasm, coaching philosophy and work ethic.

Furthermore, the All Nations Social Cricket program has received a nomination in the Government Initiative of the Year Award category. Supported by Cricket Victoria and City of Greater Dandenong, the Monash Health driven project encourages refugees to participate in cricket as a way to promote physical and mental health, and social benefits.

The program also provides a pathway to club cricket, with Dandenong West Cricket Club welcoming refugee players into their teams.

The Victorian State Government and VicSport will honour the winners at the Melbourne Convention Centre on Thursday March 30 from 6pm.

For more information on the Victorian State Awards finalists, click here.