FROM humble beginnings seven years ago, Upperthong cricket club are now the envy of many clubs due to their massive junior contingent.
Upwards of 120 youngsters were expected to once again register as the club at they launched their enrolment for this summer which should enable the Holme Valley club to send out teams at Under 9, Under 11, Under 13 (two teams), Under 15 (two teams) and Under 17 levels.
They club are willing to accept children from school year 2 and above, all of which allows them to boast the strongest junior contingent of any club in Huddersfield.
“Our philosophy of inclusion ensures that all our juniors get to play competitive cricket,” said Robert Oakley, Upperthong’s Director of Junior Cricket.
“In addition to league and cup fixtures we organise a lot of friendly games to provide ample opportunity for all players to experience the ‘buzz’ of being out in the middle.
“We have a great team of qualified coaches who have developed a growing band of young cricketers with huge potential and we get fantastic support through our links with local schools and the community.”
The club has put plenty of investment into their facilities, including extending the clubhouse to incorporate a bigger bar, kitchen and lounge are (to be opened shortly) which complement’s the twin net bay facility installed at the end of the 2008 season.
“We’ve created a great environment for our junior players to enjoy their cricket and to develop their skills, and that has been underlined by the success of our Under 19s and Under 11s recently.
“Many of our juniors are now starting to make the transition into the open age teams of which we have three senior sides playing at weekends and an Evening League side at Upperthong, which means there is plenty of scope for everyone to play.”
For further information, contact Robert Oakley, on 01484 680892 or 07919 005538.
