Helen Hogan, Ricky Johnson, Declan O’Donnell, Stuart Johnson, Dean Johnson, front, David Hogan and Trevor O’Donnell are all thrilled with a new deal between Doveton Cricket Club and Doveton Red Rooster which will result in juniors playing for free this summer. 22816 Picture: Meagan Rogers.By Callan Date
JUNIOR cricketers in Doveton are padding up for a cracking summer of fee free cricket.
More than 40 young players will have their registration fees paid for under a sponsorship agreement with a new Red Rooster store located only a decent cover drive away from the Doveton Cricket Club.
The club plans to field four junior teams this season with youngsters playing in the under 11s, 13s, 15s and 17s.
Junior cricketers will also receive a free playing shirt to wear on match days.
The club also supplies all cricket gear at no cost to the players.
Club president Steve Hendy said he hoped the sponsorship deal would encourage more youngsters to pick up the bat and ball and have a hit.
Mr Hendy said Red Rooster management made the initial approach to the club and asked how they could help out.
“We have been struggling to fill a couple of junior teams in the past and some of the kids in the local area don’t have the fortunes of some kids in Berwick and Narre Warren,” he said.
He said the club was always keen for new players to come down and be part of a welcoming environment.
Store owners David and Helen Hogan said they had been happy with the level of business since the Doveton Red Rooster opened in April.
Mrs Hogan said they were keen to support local clubs in any way they could.
“It is a good way to be involved in the local community and establish trust with our local customers.”
She said the store was also supporting a local bowling centre and indoor skating facility.
Budding young cricketers can head to Robinson Reserve each Wednesday from 5pm to take part in training.
For more information about the club contact Steve on 0414 725 926.
