The Somerset v Lancashire One-Day game at the Cooper Associates County Ground provided a fantastic opportunity to celebrate community cricket, inclusion and volunteering, with two special groups joining us throughout the day. As the gates opened, we were delighted to welcome learners from Blossom in Somerset to the County Ground for a special volunteering opportunity. Working alongside us, the group helped enhance the match-day experience for supporters by handing out our autograph clappers to fans as they arrived at the ground. The enthusiasm was infectious, with the group throwing themselves into the role and welcoming supporters with plenty of energy. It wasn’t long before every box of clappers had been handed out! The volunteers were also delighted to receive a visit from Somerset legend Jack Leach, who took the time to meet them and support their involvement in the day.
We wanted to use the CA County Ground to provide individuals with new experiences that help develop confidence and teamwork, while also providing opportunities to interact with and become more involved in the local community. For the learners, it was a chance to step outside their usual environment, take on a new responsibility and play a part in creating a memorable experience for Somerset supporters. If you are keen to get invoved in disbaility cricket, pelase contact Damian.Price@somersetcricketfoundation.org
The community focus continued in the afternoon when Walking Cricketers from across Somerset arrived at the County Ground to showcase the sport during the lunch break. Players from Walking Cricket Hubs across the county took to the outfield for a special demonstration, giving supporters the opportunity to see the game in action and learn more about the growing opportunities available to people across Somerset. The demonstration brought together players, coaches, volunteers and hub leaders from across the county and was a fantastic celebration of the inclusive nature of the sport. Walking Cricket continues to grow across Somerset, providing people with the opportunity to stay active, meet new people and enjoy the game in a relaxed and welcoming environment. A huge thank you goes to everyone from the Walking Cricket Hubs who travelled to Taunton and took part, as well as the hub leaders, volunteers and coaches who give their time to make walking cricket happen in communities right across the county.
From the moment the gates opened to the final ball of the day, community involvement was at the heart of the Somerset v Lancashire fixture. The contribution from Blossom in Somerset and the Walking Cricket community demonstrated the many different ways cricket can bring people together, whether that’s through volunteering, developing confidence and teamwork, making new connections or simply enjoying the game.
