Cricket season gets ready to roll

By Mara Pattison-Sowden
The 2011-’12 cricket season begins this weekend with official matches starting on Saturday 8 October, however administration matters have been being undertaken for months now.
The YVCA began Season 2011-12 officially at the annual meeting in early July when Mr Mark Schliefert was re-elected unopposed as president for a fourth term, his deputies being Greg Mitchell and Adrian Hammond as vice-president, joined again by Kevin Smith, Brent Watts and Iain Johnson.
Junior Section Chairman Brian Williams continues in the role he has undertaken for six years and Junior Secretary Leah Parker are all working with long time secretary/treasurer Keith Thompson commencing his 32nd season in these roles.
The association is continuing with the DJ Strachan Shield and RA Finger Trophy grades both with Ten Team competitions. Last season’s DJSS finalist in Seville (premiers) and Warburton-Millgrove will meet at Warburton on 12 and 19 November in a round four clash, the RAFT finalists in premiers Seville and runners up Healesville will not meet until Round 10 in early February.
The YVCA Umpires Association is also looking members such as retired players or other people who would like to become involved in the game as an umpire, they can call Harry on 0412 350 048, or Roy on mobile 0401 876 708 to find out how to join and what the payments received for umpiring are and any other information.
Any juniors out there wanting to join a cricket team and who do not know of whom to contact in their area can call the YVCA on 0408 353 076 for guidance and help.