It’s cricket season and Gellibrand clients got in on the action with a Cricket Day at Bayview Reserve near Williamstown Beach in January 2024.
Despite the day’s cloud cover, the weather held out and conditions were perfect for cricket. It was the first time in many years that Gellibrand had offered a Cricket Day so no one was quite sure how the event would go. But about twenty clients young and older took to the game with enthusiasm.
Some players had held a bat and ball before, like Antonio and Glen, so they spent the day brushing up on their skills. But for players such as Sophie and Melanie, cricket was literally a whole new ball game – and they fell in love with it. Both spent hours enjoying the new skill of batting.
It was exciting for clients to engage in a sport like cricket and find that the disability with which they live was no barrier to participating and having fun. Trish, who lives with vision impairment, enjoyed bowling and was all smiles through the overs she sent down.
Gellibrand team members spent time in the umpire’s position, supporting players to develop their bowling skills – Rachel especially loved trying her hand at bowling. Team members also stood as wicket keepers so they could give advice to any players who needed to hone their batting.
One of the day’s highlights was the encouragement players received when they played a shot while batting or successfully bowled or fielded. Rounds of applause and cries of well done greeted their efforts, keeping clients motivated and engaged in the game. And, of course, there was all the exercise clients enjoyed, getting out in the fresh air and working together as a team.
Just like in professional cricket, there were food and drink breaks – a barbecue for hungry players was well received. All up, clients loved Gellibrand’s Cricket Day and, when stumps were called, they didn’t want to leave! It’s hoped Gellibrand will be able to organise more Cricket Days – and other sports days – in future.
A big thanks go to Rish Khandke and his co-organisers and helpers, Amit Antil and Paul Kumar, for pitching and delivering a great fun day for Gellibrand’s clients.
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