As we near the end of March we have our last post in support of the HerGameToo International Women’s Day campaign.

Coach Marcus reflects on his experience of encouraging women and girls to participate and achieve in cricket

Get your tissues ready

To Team Awesome (aka OWMCC W&Gs)

Initially, I felt angst, when Richard asked me to assist with the women and girls cricket section. It had been several years since I last coached a cricket team. My past coaching experiences had been in junior cricket. This quickly faded into feelings of pleasure, joy, fulfilment and a sense of achievement. Seeing each and every one of you progress season upon season is a real pleasure. I shudder when I think back to the conversations myself and Richard had at the start of this incredible journey, when you didn’t even know the basics of a cricket technique. At the end of the first winter coaching, I remember vividly telling you that the first season wasn’t about winning, it was all about being competitive. You certainly ripped that rule book to shreds and were winning games from the start ! I was (and still am) really impressed with your attitude and willingness to learn. You are like sponges soaking up all the information you have been given. The cricket club is seeing the fruits of your labour and hard work. On a personal note, it fills my heart with warmth when I see the team pulling together when members are going through a tough time in their personal lives, away from cricket. Seeing mothers and daughters playing together brings back wonderful and cherished memories of my childhood, playing in the same cricket side as my late father. You are a tight knit group who are going from strength to strength. You will without doubt be successful. Both sides being promoted in the winter league is just the beginning. You will all experience a roller coaster of emotions playing this wonderful yet soul destroying game. Strap in and enjoy the ride people ……….. Tequila !!!!!

Marcus