Frenchay Cricket Club
Senior contact [email protected]
Youth contact f[email protected]
Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group contact [email protected]
Women’s Softball Cricket contact [email protected]
Website frenchaycc.com
February 2022 - Frenchay Cricket News
As this is written, the improved drainage system at the Club is being regularly tested to the full, and the Ground staff have fingers crossed that there are drier spells of weather coming. Once the underlying ‘Frenchay Clay’ gets saturated, it takes time to dry out, and there is lots of preparation work required to get the wickets fit for play.
The Seniors have started pre-season Net Practice at the newly refurbished Sports Hall at Colston’s School on a Wednesday evening, and new players are welcome – contact [email protected]. The whole range of Youth Squads have also started indoor pre-season practice, and enquiries to [email protected]. In addition, many members of the youth squads have also involved in regular winter training sessions for the various Gloucestershire County Performance Squads. This month sees the Under 15 Boys and the Under 11 Girls with two teams, competing in their respective Indoor Leagues, which is always really good, competitive practice prior to the ‘outdoor’ season ahead.
This month also sees five of our older teenage players expanding their cricketing experiences by embarking on the ECB Coach Education ‘Foundation Level One’ Coaching Course. All of them have already been assisting with various groups, and this is their first step on formal Coaching qualifications, which the Club is very keen to encourage. Our thanks go to Councillor Ben Burton for his support with a Member Awarded Funding Grant underpinning this initiative.
Meantime ‘off the pitch’, development work on the new Pavilion continues, and there is a chance that, all things being equal, we could be in a position to commence the development in September this year, immediately after the completion of the summer season. Exciting thoughts, and we will need to see how progress on the project continues through until then.
As this is written, the improved drainage system at the Club is being regularly tested to the full, and the Ground staff have fingers crossed that there are drier spells of weather coming. Once the underlying ‘Frenchay Clay’ gets saturated, it takes time to dry out, and there is lots of preparation work required to get the wickets fit for play.
The Seniors have started pre-season Net Practice at the newly refurbished Sports Hall at Colston’s School on a Wednesday evening, and new players are welcome – contact [email protected]. The whole range of Youth Squads have also started indoor pre-season practice, and enquiries to [email protected]. In addition, many members of the youth squads have also involved in regular winter training sessions for the various Gloucestershire County Performance Squads. This month sees the Under 15 Boys and the Under 11 Girls with two teams, competing in their respective Indoor Leagues, which is always really good, competitive practice prior to the ‘outdoor’ season ahead.
This month also sees five of our older teenage players expanding their cricketing experiences by embarking on the ECB Coach Education ‘Foundation Level One’ Coaching Course. All of them have already been assisting with various groups, and this is their first step on formal Coaching qualifications, which the Club is very keen to encourage. Our thanks go to Councillor Ben Burton for his support with a Member Awarded Funding Grant underpinning this initiative.
Meantime ‘off the pitch’, development work on the new Pavilion continues, and there is a chance that, all things being equal, we could be in a position to commence the development in September this year, immediately after the completion of the summer season. Exciting thoughts, and we will need to see how progress on the project continues through until then.
January 2022 - Frenchay Cricket News
A very happy new year to everyone, which hopefully will prove better for all in terms of the health and wellbeing of the wider community.
Excellent news came through in December, and time now to congratulate Izzy Patel, Lily Knox, Rachel le Poidevin, Liv Daniels and Emily Murray, all of whom have been included in the Gloucestershire Girls ‘Emerging Players Programme’ (EPP) for 2022. This is the top level of Coaching for Girls in the County, and having five players out of the thirteen in the EPP Group is a tribute to the commitment of the young players, the opportunities provided by the Club to develop their talents and experience, and to the various
Coaches who have assisted their development. Lily, Izzy, and Rachel all started in the Under 11 Girls Group at the Club with Liv and Emily joining at under 13s, and this just shows what opportunities are available to every young player with commitment.
Meanwhile, the Indoor Leagues were completed in the autumn, and the U15 Boys were successful in winning the DFCA Plate Competition, while the ‘Fire’ Girls finished in 3rd place in the U15 DFCA Cup Competition. January will see the U13 Girls continuing in the Glos Girls ‘South’ League.
The ‘Junior’ and ‘Senior’ Falcons Disability Groups completed their respective indoor sessions at Shaftesbury Park, and are set to recommence on Sundays later this month at the same venue. There are opportunities for any SEND Children (KS2 and above) and Adults, so if anyone reading this knows of anyone who would benefit from fun, cricket based activity, please contact [email protected]
A very happy new year to everyone, which hopefully will prove better for all in terms of the health and wellbeing of the wider community.
Excellent news came through in December, and time now to congratulate Izzy Patel, Lily Knox, Rachel le Poidevin, Liv Daniels and Emily Murray, all of whom have been included in the Gloucestershire Girls ‘Emerging Players Programme’ (EPP) for 2022. This is the top level of Coaching for Girls in the County, and having five players out of the thirteen in the EPP Group is a tribute to the commitment of the young players, the opportunities provided by the Club to develop their talents and experience, and to the various
Coaches who have assisted their development. Lily, Izzy, and Rachel all started in the Under 11 Girls Group at the Club with Liv and Emily joining at under 13s, and this just shows what opportunities are available to every young player with commitment.
Meanwhile, the Indoor Leagues were completed in the autumn, and the U15 Boys were successful in winning the DFCA Plate Competition, while the ‘Fire’ Girls finished in 3rd place in the U15 DFCA Cup Competition. January will see the U13 Girls continuing in the Glos Girls ‘South’ League.
The ‘Junior’ and ‘Senior’ Falcons Disability Groups completed their respective indoor sessions at Shaftesbury Park, and are set to recommence on Sundays later this month at the same venue. There are opportunities for any SEND Children (KS2 and above) and Adults, so if anyone reading this knows of anyone who would benefit from fun, cricket based activity, please contact [email protected]
December 2021 - Frenchay Cricket News
This is generally a fairly quiet time at the Ground, with the heavy conditions underfoot preventing most of the Groundsman’s activities from taking place. But they still manage to keep the grass trimmed in the dry spells.
Now is a good time to celebrate another successful youth system in terms of producing top level young players. In the Girls system, we have 21 players across all age groups invited to take part in the ‘Winter Performance Training Programmes’ of the Gloucestershire Squads. In the Under 11 ‘Development’, Imogen Stokes has been selected a year ‘early’ (as a Year 5). There are four representatives in the County U13 Squad, Imogen Davies, Olivia Mackenzie, Lilly Moss and Sophie Murray, with Daisy Dalton making the ‘Development’ Squad. Another five from the Club join the U15s, with Jasmine Sappal, Jemima Smith and Ellie Donaldson at ‘County’ level, and Darcie Ford and Sophie Pickering in the ‘Development’ Squad. At Under 18, Frenchay Girls make up 50% of the entire Squad of 18. Izzy Carey, Liv Daniels, Izzy Patel, Lily Knox, Anmol Krishna, Rachel le Poidevin, Issy Richards and Sarah Walsh make up a formidable group, some of whom have just completed their third year of ‘senior cricket’ at the Club. Overall, no less than 14 of these girls have come right the way up through the Youth System from Under 11s.
The Boys County Performance Squads are yet to be announced, but beneath this are the ‘GCB Zonal’ Squads, with Frenchay represented by Sachin Shriram at U10, Omar Khawaja and Ruben McDonald Capote at U11, and Leo Williams at U12.
This is generally a fairly quiet time at the Ground, with the heavy conditions underfoot preventing most of the Groundsman’s activities from taking place. But they still manage to keep the grass trimmed in the dry spells.
Now is a good time to celebrate another successful youth system in terms of producing top level young players. In the Girls system, we have 21 players across all age groups invited to take part in the ‘Winter Performance Training Programmes’ of the Gloucestershire Squads. In the Under 11 ‘Development’, Imogen Stokes has been selected a year ‘early’ (as a Year 5). There are four representatives in the County U13 Squad, Imogen Davies, Olivia Mackenzie, Lilly Moss and Sophie Murray, with Daisy Dalton making the ‘Development’ Squad. Another five from the Club join the U15s, with Jasmine Sappal, Jemima Smith and Ellie Donaldson at ‘County’ level, and Darcie Ford and Sophie Pickering in the ‘Development’ Squad. At Under 18, Frenchay Girls make up 50% of the entire Squad of 18. Izzy Carey, Liv Daniels, Izzy Patel, Lily Knox, Anmol Krishna, Rachel le Poidevin, Issy Richards and Sarah Walsh make up a formidable group, some of whom have just completed their third year of ‘senior cricket’ at the Club. Overall, no less than 14 of these girls have come right the way up through the Youth System from Under 11s.
The Boys County Performance Squads are yet to be announced, but beneath this are the ‘GCB Zonal’ Squads, with Frenchay represented by Sachin Shriram at U10, Omar Khawaja and Ruben McDonald Capote at U11, and Leo Williams at U12.
November 2021 - End of Season Report
The official end to the season for Frenchay Cricket Club arrived last week, as Dings rugby club hosted a dinner to celebrate the season and reward the players and everyone else involved at the club for their efforts during tough times last year. The senior awards also took place during the dinner and to start the list of winners off, is Eddie Williams who won Cricketer of the Year. Eddie contributed with a fantastic effort, scoring 240 runs and taking 19 wickets in his first full season as captain.
Young Cricketer of the Year was awarded to Tim Dobinson, who took 45 wickets at an average of 16.96 during his breakthrough season. Tim represented the first and second team last season with bowling figures of 3/29 against League Champions, Bedminster. Tim also played a crucial role in the U17 team that finished runners up in the David Allen U17 Knock Out Cup.
Adrian and Lis Dobinson were named joint winners of the Clubman of the Year award. Both Adrian and Lis have contributed immensely off the pitch this year, with Adrian organising the youth section and scoring for both the first and the second team. Adrian was the main person behind the purchase of a brand-new scoreboard at Frenchay, which will be in use next season. Lis on the other hand has started scoring this season, and has covered games in which Adrian couldn’t attend. She is willing to help out wherever asked, and the club are immensely grateful for her and Adrian’s help.
We recently lost a great servant at the club, Dave March. Dave joined Frenchay in the mid-80s, and was a huge part of the Saturday 3rd and Sunday 2nd teams, captaining both on many occasions. After his retirement, Dave took responsibility for cutting both outfields, as well as coaching the U17 team, with several generations of players benefitting from his knowledge, experience and enthusiasm.
The official end to the season for Frenchay Cricket Club arrived last week, as Dings rugby club hosted a dinner to celebrate the season and reward the players and everyone else involved at the club for their efforts during tough times last year. The senior awards also took place during the dinner and to start the list of winners off, is Eddie Williams who won Cricketer of the Year. Eddie contributed with a fantastic effort, scoring 240 runs and taking 19 wickets in his first full season as captain.
Young Cricketer of the Year was awarded to Tim Dobinson, who took 45 wickets at an average of 16.96 during his breakthrough season. Tim represented the first and second team last season with bowling figures of 3/29 against League Champions, Bedminster. Tim also played a crucial role in the U17 team that finished runners up in the David Allen U17 Knock Out Cup.
Adrian and Lis Dobinson were named joint winners of the Clubman of the Year award. Both Adrian and Lis have contributed immensely off the pitch this year, with Adrian organising the youth section and scoring for both the first and the second team. Adrian was the main person behind the purchase of a brand-new scoreboard at Frenchay, which will be in use next season. Lis on the other hand has started scoring this season, and has covered games in which Adrian couldn’t attend. She is willing to help out wherever asked, and the club are immensely grateful for her and Adrian’s help.
We recently lost a great servant at the club, Dave March. Dave joined Frenchay in the mid-80s, and was a huge part of the Saturday 3rd and Sunday 2nd teams, captaining both on many occasions. After his retirement, Dave took responsibility for cutting both outfields, as well as coaching the U17 team, with several generations of players benefitting from his knowledge, experience and enthusiasm.
October 2021
Frenchay Cricket Club Report
With the outdoor cricket season finished (where did that time go!), we can reflect on a season of mixed fortunes. The 1sts, after promising much early season, unfortunately tailed off in the latter stages. Still, in 2022, we can look forward to renewing the ‘local derby’ with Stapleton. The 2nds sadly finished in a relegation spot, and although their matches often went down to the wire, they were unable to force the wins. The young 3rds had a very successful season, gaining promotion, and the newly created 4ths did a great job, giving so many young players the experience of ‘senior’ cricket. The Women's Softball Team grew in numbers, confidence and laughter as their first season in the League progressed, culminating in strong moves to also form a Women's Hardball side in 2022.
At youth level, pride of place goes to the ‘mixed gender’ Under 17s, who won their Bristol Youth League Section, and finished as runners up in the David Allen KO Cup. The other age group sides ranging from Under 9s through to Under 15s, all competed well. Including the vibrant ‘All Stars’ Group, despite the impact of Covid 19 delaying pre-season preparations and the sometimes challenging weather, the youth system was enormously popular. In addition, there were also numbers of our boys and girls in Gloucestershire County Performance Squads, and who travelled far and wide in the south and west representing the Club.
The Falcons Disability Group expanded at ‘Senior’ level, and the new younger ‘Dynamos’ was very popular. Both groups now move indoors on a Sunday at Shaftesbury Park.
The 175th Celebration Season will be concluded with a Dinner at Shaftesbury Park early this month, with Charles Dagnall, ex Leicestershire and Warwickshire cricketer, and now BBC Radio and Sky Sports broadcaster as Guest Speaker.
Frenchay Cricket Club Report
With the outdoor cricket season finished (where did that time go!), we can reflect on a season of mixed fortunes. The 1sts, after promising much early season, unfortunately tailed off in the latter stages. Still, in 2022, we can look forward to renewing the ‘local derby’ with Stapleton. The 2nds sadly finished in a relegation spot, and although their matches often went down to the wire, they were unable to force the wins. The young 3rds had a very successful season, gaining promotion, and the newly created 4ths did a great job, giving so many young players the experience of ‘senior’ cricket. The Women's Softball Team grew in numbers, confidence and laughter as their first season in the League progressed, culminating in strong moves to also form a Women's Hardball side in 2022.
At youth level, pride of place goes to the ‘mixed gender’ Under 17s, who won their Bristol Youth League Section, and finished as runners up in the David Allen KO Cup. The other age group sides ranging from Under 9s through to Under 15s, all competed well. Including the vibrant ‘All Stars’ Group, despite the impact of Covid 19 delaying pre-season preparations and the sometimes challenging weather, the youth system was enormously popular. In addition, there were also numbers of our boys and girls in Gloucestershire County Performance Squads, and who travelled far and wide in the south and west representing the Club.
The Falcons Disability Group expanded at ‘Senior’ level, and the new younger ‘Dynamos’ was very popular. Both groups now move indoors on a Sunday at Shaftesbury Park.
The 175th Celebration Season will be concluded with a Dinner at Shaftesbury Park early this month, with Charles Dagnall, ex Leicestershire and Warwickshire cricketer, and now BBC Radio and Sky Sports broadcaster as Guest Speaker.
September 2021
Frenchay Cricket Club News
As the 2021 Season draws towards a conclusion, the Club can reflect on a mixed year both on and off the field. The ever-present side effects of the pandemic have tended to overshadow lots, but at least most aspects of cricket have been able to proceed with care and common sense as 'lockdown' was gradually relaxed through the summer. Celebrating the 175th Anniversary of the Club has been a central theme, but that has also been somewhat muted in the prevailing circumstances.
On the field, as this is written, the 1st Xl are still in contention for promotion, while the 2nd Xl continue to struggle in some close matches. The young 3rds side remain challenging for promotion, and the 4ths can reflect on blooding so many youth players into 'senior cricket'. The Sunday X1 have enjoyed some challenging matches, and the Women's Softball side are going from strength to strength, with some now looking to progress into Women's 'hardball' cricket. Thanks to lots of work by the many volunteers involved, the various Youth Teams have all had good seasons, with a number reaching the later stages of Competitions.
All of this 'on field' activity is courtesy of the highly committed team of volunteers who look after the ground so well. This past season, they have prepared around 250 individual wickets for each match played on the two 'Squares', plus lots more for the
'Softball' matches played when we host Schools and other Festivals.
Off the field, a new Electronic Scoreboard has been purchased, temporarily sited this summer on the Scorebox, but to be re-sited over the close-season at the car park end of the Ground for better spectator visibility.
Frenchay Cricket Club News
As the 2021 Season draws towards a conclusion, the Club can reflect on a mixed year both on and off the field. The ever-present side effects of the pandemic have tended to overshadow lots, but at least most aspects of cricket have been able to proceed with care and common sense as 'lockdown' was gradually relaxed through the summer. Celebrating the 175th Anniversary of the Club has been a central theme, but that has also been somewhat muted in the prevailing circumstances.
On the field, as this is written, the 1st Xl are still in contention for promotion, while the 2nd Xl continue to struggle in some close matches. The young 3rds side remain challenging for promotion, and the 4ths can reflect on blooding so many youth players into 'senior cricket'. The Sunday X1 have enjoyed some challenging matches, and the Women's Softball side are going from strength to strength, with some now looking to progress into Women's 'hardball' cricket. Thanks to lots of work by the many volunteers involved, the various Youth Teams have all had good seasons, with a number reaching the later stages of Competitions.
All of this 'on field' activity is courtesy of the highly committed team of volunteers who look after the ground so well. This past season, they have prepared around 250 individual wickets for each match played on the two 'Squares', plus lots more for the
'Softball' matches played when we host Schools and other Festivals.
Off the field, a new Electronic Scoreboard has been purchased, temporarily sited this summer on the Scorebox, but to be re-sited over the close-season at the car park end of the Ground for better spectator visibility.
August 2021
FRENCHAY CRICKET CLUB HOSTS THE MCC
Two of the oldest Cricket Clubs in the country, or for that matter anywhere, met in a match at the Bob Stone Ground, Frenchay on the 9th July as part of the local club's 175th anniversary. celebrations. The weather was kind and allowed for a most enjoyable occasion both for those playing and those watching. The two clubs shared a former member in the formidable figure of Dr. W.G. Grace, and the MCC puts out teams for roughly 500 fixtures annually to support and encourage the ongoing growth and development of the game. The Frenchay Club are a good example of the ongoing encouragement and development of the game, with its four senior sides, a women's team, a disability group, and a thriving youth section. No less than 8 players in the team taking on the MCC had come through the FCC youth system, including the youngest player, in the match, 17 year-old Tim Dobinson, who took a creditable 2 wickets for 47 runs.
The visitors batted first and reached a score of 208 for 7 off 46 overs before declaring, and while the home side were unable to build the partnerships to truly challenge that total, being all out for 121, the occasion was much more about recognition of all that the Club has achieved over a very long period of time. The club is also very much looking to the future, with plans for a new pavilion well advanced, and with the latest technical acquisition, the electronic scorebox, in use at the match and seen in the picture above. The photograph below is of the two teams together at the close of play on a memorable day for the Club. Dr. W. G. would have enjoyed it!
FRENCHAY CRICKET CLUB HOSTS THE MCC
Two of the oldest Cricket Clubs in the country, or for that matter anywhere, met in a match at the Bob Stone Ground, Frenchay on the 9th July as part of the local club's 175th anniversary. celebrations. The weather was kind and allowed for a most enjoyable occasion both for those playing and those watching. The two clubs shared a former member in the formidable figure of Dr. W.G. Grace, and the MCC puts out teams for roughly 500 fixtures annually to support and encourage the ongoing growth and development of the game. The Frenchay Club are a good example of the ongoing encouragement and development of the game, with its four senior sides, a women's team, a disability group, and a thriving youth section. No less than 8 players in the team taking on the MCC had come through the FCC youth system, including the youngest player, in the match, 17 year-old Tim Dobinson, who took a creditable 2 wickets for 47 runs.
The visitors batted first and reached a score of 208 for 7 off 46 overs before declaring, and while the home side were unable to build the partnerships to truly challenge that total, being all out for 121, the occasion was much more about recognition of all that the Club has achieved over a very long period of time. The club is also very much looking to the future, with plans for a new pavilion well advanced, and with the latest technical acquisition, the electronic scorebox, in use at the match and seen in the picture above. The photograph below is of the two teams together at the close of play on a memorable day for the Club. Dr. W. G. would have enjoyed it!
Frenchay Cricket Club News
The season is progressing well, but the very changeable weather has certainly affected how many matches and training sessions have taken place. The heavy showers have challenged the improved drainage system at the Ground, but in past years, lots more time would have been lost through waterlogging.
On the field, the 1st Xl continue to show up well in a very tight Division, while the 2nd Xl are still struggling to get across the line in close matches. The 3rd Xl are staying the pace in another challenging Division, while the 4ths have had some extremely tight finishes. The Womens Softball Team have also been doing well in their mix of matches and Festivals, with lots of laughter and learning being the order of the day.
At youth level, 'All Stars' has now been completed with around 30 young children having had a super experience, with much credit for this going to our very talented and committed group of older teenagers for assisting with these sessions. The Under 9s and U11 Girls 'Dynamos' continue with matches, as do the large number of boys in the U11 Squads. The U13 'Heat' Girls lead the way in their Glos Girls Division, and the U15 'Flames' Girls continue to impress. The Junior 'Dynamos' Falcons Disability Group is growing, as is the 'Senior' Falcons Group.
The 175th Centenary celebrations are going well, with a super day involving a 'Former Frenchay Xl' v Current 1st Xl, when it was great to see 'old' faces back on the pitch, some as lively as ever, others perhaps not quite so! The Celebration Match with MCC is featured elsewhere in this Edition.
Finally, so many visitors comment about how lovely the Ground looks, which is testament to the work of the highly committed volunteer Grounds Team.
Jim Donaldson
The season is progressing well, but the very changeable weather has certainly affected how many matches and training sessions have taken place. The heavy showers have challenged the improved drainage system at the Ground, but in past years, lots more time would have been lost through waterlogging.
On the field, the 1st Xl continue to show up well in a very tight Division, while the 2nd Xl are still struggling to get across the line in close matches. The 3rd Xl are staying the pace in another challenging Division, while the 4ths have had some extremely tight finishes. The Womens Softball Team have also been doing well in their mix of matches and Festivals, with lots of laughter and learning being the order of the day.
At youth level, 'All Stars' has now been completed with around 30 young children having had a super experience, with much credit for this going to our very talented and committed group of older teenagers for assisting with these sessions. The Under 9s and U11 Girls 'Dynamos' continue with matches, as do the large number of boys in the U11 Squads. The U13 'Heat' Girls lead the way in their Glos Girls Division, and the U15 'Flames' Girls continue to impress. The Junior 'Dynamos' Falcons Disability Group is growing, as is the 'Senior' Falcons Group.
The 175th Centenary celebrations are going well, with a super day involving a 'Former Frenchay Xl' v Current 1st Xl, when it was great to see 'old' faces back on the pitch, some as lively as ever, others perhaps not quite so! The Celebration Match with MCC is featured elsewhere in this Edition.
Finally, so many visitors comment about how lovely the Ground looks, which is testament to the work of the highly committed volunteer Grounds Team.
Jim Donaldson
July 2021
The season is now well under way, with the Club busy every evening with youth matches, senior games played on Saturdays, and youth training spread between Fridays, Sunday mornings and Monday evenings. To date, at 'Senior' level, the 1st Xl have had a mixed time, the 2nd Xl have found life tough but with some close matches, and the 3rds have so far been doing very well. The new 4th Xl have blooded lots of young players, and with a mix of the more experienced, have had some good learning experiences. The Women's Softball Team has also been doing well.
At youth level, the 'All Stars' for 5 -8 year olds has been buzzing on a Sunday morning, and the 'Girls Dynamos' for 8 - 11 year olds has also proved very successful. The 'mixed' Under 9 are similarly involved in matches, as are the two U11 Boys. The U13
Boys reached the South Gloucestershire Final of the Vitality National Club KO Cup, an achievement matched by the U15 'A' Boys. The U13 'Heat' Girls are progressing well in their Glos South League, the U15 'Flames' Girls in the Lady Taverners National Cup, as well as the local Competitions, as are the U17 'Fire' Girls. The new 'Junior' (Dynamos) Falcons Disability Group is growing slowly, and the 'Senior' Falcons will soon be playing matches.
The redoubtable MCC arrive on Friday 9th July (11.00 start) for a '175th Anniversary' Celebration match. And the Club will also be celebrating this milestone with the installation of a new electronic Scoreboard for the Main Pitch.
In June, the Club hosted two SEND Schools Cricket Days, while July will see several Primary Schools Cricket Days, as well as the Regional ECB 'Wicketz' Festival involving Teams from Bristol, Cardiff, Plymouth and the West Midlands.
The season is now well under way, with the Club busy every evening with youth matches, senior games played on Saturdays, and youth training spread between Fridays, Sunday mornings and Monday evenings. To date, at 'Senior' level, the 1st Xl have had a mixed time, the 2nd Xl have found life tough but with some close matches, and the 3rds have so far been doing very well. The new 4th Xl have blooded lots of young players, and with a mix of the more experienced, have had some good learning experiences. The Women's Softball Team has also been doing well.
At youth level, the 'All Stars' for 5 -8 year olds has been buzzing on a Sunday morning, and the 'Girls Dynamos' for 8 - 11 year olds has also proved very successful. The 'mixed' Under 9 are similarly involved in matches, as are the two U11 Boys. The U13
Boys reached the South Gloucestershire Final of the Vitality National Club KO Cup, an achievement matched by the U15 'A' Boys. The U13 'Heat' Girls are progressing well in their Glos South League, the U15 'Flames' Girls in the Lady Taverners National Cup, as well as the local Competitions, as are the U17 'Fire' Girls. The new 'Junior' (Dynamos) Falcons Disability Group is growing slowly, and the 'Senior' Falcons will soon be playing matches.
The redoubtable MCC arrive on Friday 9th July (11.00 start) for a '175th Anniversary' Celebration match. And the Club will also be celebrating this milestone with the installation of a new electronic Scoreboard for the Main Pitch.
In June, the Club hosted two SEND Schools Cricket Days, while July will see several Primary Schools Cricket Days, as well as the Regional ECB 'Wicketz' Festival involving Teams from Bristol, Cardiff, Plymouth and the West Midlands.
June 2021
THE 175th ANNIVERSARY
This year represents a remarkable milestone for the Frenchay Cricket Club, formed in 1846. The first game reported in the Bristol Mirror of 29 August 1846 stated that “On Saturday a match came off at Frenchay between the cricket club of that village and the pupils of Mr. Stone’s school at Summerhill. It terminated in the club beating their opponents by 72 runs.”
In 1846, Queen Victoria, then aged 27, was 9 years into her reign; Sir Robert Peel was Prime Minister, succeeded mid-year by Lord John Russell; Parliament authorised funding for the Great Northern Railway from London to York; and the first medical operation under anaesthesia was performed. If alternatively you take your historical perspective from Bridgerton (and let’s not be too judgmental here, it cheered up a lot of people through lockdown), the stories were set a little earlier in a period from 1813 to 1827, but it was during that period that the first people to make a cricket pitch on the Common were members of the Wadham family, who had moved into the Manor House in 1818. So let your imagination take it from there.
THE 175th ANNIVERSARY
This year represents a remarkable milestone for the Frenchay Cricket Club, formed in 1846. The first game reported in the Bristol Mirror of 29 August 1846 stated that “On Saturday a match came off at Frenchay between the cricket club of that village and the pupils of Mr. Stone’s school at Summerhill. It terminated in the club beating their opponents by 72 runs.”
In 1846, Queen Victoria, then aged 27, was 9 years into her reign; Sir Robert Peel was Prime Minister, succeeded mid-year by Lord John Russell; Parliament authorised funding for the Great Northern Railway from London to York; and the first medical operation under anaesthesia was performed. If alternatively you take your historical perspective from Bridgerton (and let’s not be too judgmental here, it cheered up a lot of people through lockdown), the stories were set a little earlier in a period from 1813 to 1827, but it was during that period that the first people to make a cricket pitch on the Common were members of the Wadham family, who had moved into the Manor House in 1818. So let your imagination take it from there.
W.G. Grace
The most famous name from the early days of Frenchay Cricket Club was of course Dr. W. G. Grace, who played for the club for a single season in 1870 and as Captain before going on to become one of the game’s greatest players and a key figure in the development of the sport. In later years he returned to play at Frenchay for other teams, including a game in 1885 for Thornbury when, somewhat untypically, he got a’ pair of specs’ , i.e. 0 in both innings! The Graces were a Downend family, and there were several members of the family who played at various times for Frenchay. G.F. Grace is said once to have hit the ball so mightily on one occasion that it hit the Church clock. On another occasion, a batsman, A. Humphries, hit a ball ‘half-way up the steeple. However that was not the only way to earn a ‘six’: at that time, part of the Common was still not restored from its former use as a quarry, and the tactic in those days was often to ‘hit the ball into the quarry and to run six’.
As compared to the present day, The Common had many more trees, and, near the school, the quarrying had scarred the surface and had left its tumps and holes to mar and spoil the beauty of the Common; but in these surroundings was a, then small, flat space where the first cricket pitch was created. Much later,, in the early 1920s, legal issues threatened the Cricket Club when Winterbourne Parish Council took the view that ‘rights of Common’ meant that Frenchay Common was free for anyone to use as they pleased, including those who wanted to play football on the area maintained for cricket. Such usage would have been incompatible, and this led P.G. Davies, a member of the Club, to bring an action in the Bristol County Court to win a ruling that the Common was held under ‘Manorial Rights’ (which he had acquired in 1921 so as to protect the Cricket Club) and therefore that the usage could be managed and restricted. Although football was to be permitted during the winter, the Council was to use all reasonable means to preserve the Cricket Club’s pitch in good condition.
A wealth of detail of the operation of the Club during the first 100 years of its life, with names and personalities, matches and achievements, developments and anecdotes, is all set out in a ‘Centenary Book’ produced around 1946, and for those interested, this is well worth a read. A copy is held by Frenchay Museum, but can also be accessed through the internet. A couple of the anecdotes read as follows:
As compared to the present day, The Common had many more trees, and, near the school, the quarrying had scarred the surface and had left its tumps and holes to mar and spoil the beauty of the Common; but in these surroundings was a, then small, flat space where the first cricket pitch was created. Much later,, in the early 1920s, legal issues threatened the Cricket Club when Winterbourne Parish Council took the view that ‘rights of Common’ meant that Frenchay Common was free for anyone to use as they pleased, including those who wanted to play football on the area maintained for cricket. Such usage would have been incompatible, and this led P.G. Davies, a member of the Club, to bring an action in the Bristol County Court to win a ruling that the Common was held under ‘Manorial Rights’ (which he had acquired in 1921 so as to protect the Cricket Club) and therefore that the usage could be managed and restricted. Although football was to be permitted during the winter, the Council was to use all reasonable means to preserve the Cricket Club’s pitch in good condition.
A wealth of detail of the operation of the Club during the first 100 years of its life, with names and personalities, matches and achievements, developments and anecdotes, is all set out in a ‘Centenary Book’ produced around 1946, and for those interested, this is well worth a read. A copy is held by Frenchay Museum, but can also be accessed through the internet. A couple of the anecdotes read as follows:
- “When playing a Bristol team who were batting, a ball was hit into a four-wheeled low-basket carriage driving towards Bristol. To our astonishment, the driver whipped up the pony and, in spite of several of the team chasing him, he out-distanced us. We had no other ball until S. Piper went to the school and fetched the best practice ball, with which we continued the game.”
- “When league cricket was being played, Frenchay and St. George played a final game, on the Common, to decide who should be top of the league. St. George won the game, and it may be of interest to note that reports on its progress were sent back to St. George at intervals by carrier pigeon. The game attracted what must have been the biggest crowd on the Common up to that time. All the beer at the White Lion was consumed, and there was none left for the Sunday callers!”
Cricket on Frenchay Common
In the immediate post-war years, it must have felt like coming out of lockdown, but on a much bigger, more intense, scale, and for so many people to come together for an important cricket match in the Village would have meant it was a very special and emotional occasion.
The Centenary Book records various tributes to the setting on the Common. “To walk on to the ground on a bright Summer’s afternoon, with the green of the short-cut grass and the white of the screens and scoring tent showing up against the old grey church, gives one a thrill of pleasure and of anticipation of the sporting game to follow.” “The very thought of a match with Frenchay brings to mind a typically English village scene, the Common, the Church, the trees , and the stately mansions.”
However, in the immediate post Second World War years, the Club Management became increasingly frustrated with the facilities available on Frenchay Common. Attempts to build Changing Rooms on and near the Common were (understandably) rebuffed, and the opportunity arose to purchase an existing Sports Ground nearby on Filton Road. With the help of a £5000 Grant from the forerunners of Sport England, the Club purchased and moved to the 11 acre Ground in 1952. A second Cricket Pitch was later added, and a ‘Third Xl’ formed in the ‘60s. Hockey was played on the ‘outfield’ for a number of years, and football at the ‘top’ end. In 1970, the existing Clubhouse, comprising a mix of ex-Local-Authority ‘Terrapin’ buildings, was opened by Bert Tann, then Manager of Bristol Rovers, replacing the two original wooden huts, including their ex-Omnibus seats.
On the Senior playing front, in 1971 traditional ‘friendly’ Cricket in the area was replaced by ‘League’ Cricket, and the Club joined the Bristol & District League (B & D) with all three Senior Teams competing. By the early ‘80s, Frenchay had added Youth Teams at Under 13 & Under 15 age groups. 1982 saw the construction of the ‘front’ ‘Balcony’ extension to the Clubhouse. The 1990’s saw blossoming success on the field, firmly based on a proactive Management Committee and a burgeoning youth system. In 1996, the Club celebrated it’s 150th Anniversary with a ‘Celebration Week’ of Matches, concluding the season with a Celebration Dinner at the BAWA Club. Meantime, younger boys were being encouraged into Club Cricket by the formation of an Under 11 Team. Two B & D League Championship Titles were claimed in 1997 & 1998, followed by acceptance into the County Alliance League in 1999.
Further restructuring of local Senior Cricket in 2000, saw the Club join the West of England Premier League (WEPL) extending to Gloucestershire, Somerset and North Wiltshire. Since that time, the Club has regularly sought the playing services of an ‘Overseas Player’ for the summer season, including lads from Australia, South Africa, Bermuda and India, who in most years, have also brought coaching expertise to put into youth and other areas of the Club. Continuing success followed, and the 1st Xl rose up through the WEPL pyramid, to enjoy two seasons (2005/6) at the highest level. However, that was a really tough level to play competitively with other sides bolstered by County Professionals, and the 1st Xl is now at a solidly competitive level varying between the B & D and WEPL.
Since 2010, the Club has worked hard to improve and extend the diversity of its membership and offering.
With major support from South Gloucestershire Council, a Girls Section was started in 2010. Coaches went regularly into local Primary Schools (including Frenchay C of E) and Winterbourne International Academy during the summer Term, focussing primarily on the girls. The recruits from this activity, which received the National Chace To Shine ‘Project of the Year’ Award in 2016, have been the foundation of a seemingly ever-increasing number of girls at the Club. There are now girls’ at Under 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 age groups, with many having reached Gloucestershire County Performance levels and on to ‘Senior’ level for the Club,. For the last few years, the club has also been running an increasingly popular ‘Womens’ Softball Cricket’ Group, and anticipates moving into ‘Womens Hardball’ cricket in the near future.
Also in 2010, the Club became involved with Disability Cricket, forming the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group for Secondary School and Adult ages. More recently, the Falcons has also become a Lords Taverners ‘Super 1 Hub’, and an ECB ‘Community Club’. In addition, with thanks to Councillor Ben Burton for his support, the Disability offer is being extended by introducing a ‘Junior Falcons’ summer programme for Key Stage 2 SEND Children this summer.
In recent years, the condition of the now 50 years old, primarily wooden Clubhouse has given increasing concern. Planning Permission has been given for a new pavilion with facilities to meet the requirements of the modern cricketing era. It is hoped that this will be constructed in the next couple of years.
The Centenary Book records various tributes to the setting on the Common. “To walk on to the ground on a bright Summer’s afternoon, with the green of the short-cut grass and the white of the screens and scoring tent showing up against the old grey church, gives one a thrill of pleasure and of anticipation of the sporting game to follow.” “The very thought of a match with Frenchay brings to mind a typically English village scene, the Common, the Church, the trees , and the stately mansions.”
However, in the immediate post Second World War years, the Club Management became increasingly frustrated with the facilities available on Frenchay Common. Attempts to build Changing Rooms on and near the Common were (understandably) rebuffed, and the opportunity arose to purchase an existing Sports Ground nearby on Filton Road. With the help of a £5000 Grant from the forerunners of Sport England, the Club purchased and moved to the 11 acre Ground in 1952. A second Cricket Pitch was later added, and a ‘Third Xl’ formed in the ‘60s. Hockey was played on the ‘outfield’ for a number of years, and football at the ‘top’ end. In 1970, the existing Clubhouse, comprising a mix of ex-Local-Authority ‘Terrapin’ buildings, was opened by Bert Tann, then Manager of Bristol Rovers, replacing the two original wooden huts, including their ex-Omnibus seats.
On the Senior playing front, in 1971 traditional ‘friendly’ Cricket in the area was replaced by ‘League’ Cricket, and the Club joined the Bristol & District League (B & D) with all three Senior Teams competing. By the early ‘80s, Frenchay had added Youth Teams at Under 13 & Under 15 age groups. 1982 saw the construction of the ‘front’ ‘Balcony’ extension to the Clubhouse. The 1990’s saw blossoming success on the field, firmly based on a proactive Management Committee and a burgeoning youth system. In 1996, the Club celebrated it’s 150th Anniversary with a ‘Celebration Week’ of Matches, concluding the season with a Celebration Dinner at the BAWA Club. Meantime, younger boys were being encouraged into Club Cricket by the formation of an Under 11 Team. Two B & D League Championship Titles were claimed in 1997 & 1998, followed by acceptance into the County Alliance League in 1999.
Further restructuring of local Senior Cricket in 2000, saw the Club join the West of England Premier League (WEPL) extending to Gloucestershire, Somerset and North Wiltshire. Since that time, the Club has regularly sought the playing services of an ‘Overseas Player’ for the summer season, including lads from Australia, South Africa, Bermuda and India, who in most years, have also brought coaching expertise to put into youth and other areas of the Club. Continuing success followed, and the 1st Xl rose up through the WEPL pyramid, to enjoy two seasons (2005/6) at the highest level. However, that was a really tough level to play competitively with other sides bolstered by County Professionals, and the 1st Xl is now at a solidly competitive level varying between the B & D and WEPL.
Since 2010, the Club has worked hard to improve and extend the diversity of its membership and offering.
With major support from South Gloucestershire Council, a Girls Section was started in 2010. Coaches went regularly into local Primary Schools (including Frenchay C of E) and Winterbourne International Academy during the summer Term, focussing primarily on the girls. The recruits from this activity, which received the National Chace To Shine ‘Project of the Year’ Award in 2016, have been the foundation of a seemingly ever-increasing number of girls at the Club. There are now girls’ at Under 9, 11, 13, 15 and 17 age groups, with many having reached Gloucestershire County Performance levels and on to ‘Senior’ level for the Club,. For the last few years, the club has also been running an increasingly popular ‘Womens’ Softball Cricket’ Group, and anticipates moving into ‘Womens Hardball’ cricket in the near future.
Also in 2010, the Club became involved with Disability Cricket, forming the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group for Secondary School and Adult ages. More recently, the Falcons has also become a Lords Taverners ‘Super 1 Hub’, and an ECB ‘Community Club’. In addition, with thanks to Councillor Ben Burton for his support, the Disability offer is being extended by introducing a ‘Junior Falcons’ summer programme for Key Stage 2 SEND Children this summer.
In recent years, the condition of the now 50 years old, primarily wooden Clubhouse has given increasing concern. Planning Permission has been given for a new pavilion with facilities to meet the requirements of the modern cricketing era. It is hoped that this will be constructed in the next couple of years.
Bob Stone Ground
Shown above is the delightful Bob Stone Ground’ (named after a Club stalwart) where visitors at matches are very welcome, particularly at the forthcoming anniversary celebration principal matches—Dates for your Diaries :
(With thanks to Jim Donaldson of Frenchay C.C. for his substantial contributions for this article)
- Sunday 27 June : the 1st XI vs. a ‘Former Frenchay ‘XI
- Friday 9 July : Frenchay vs. a MCC Team
(With thanks to Jim Donaldson of Frenchay C.C. for his substantial contributions for this article)
May 2021
Excellent news with the ‘Roadmap’ timings upheld, and cricket in full swing. While there are still some restrictions on and off the field, hopefully most of these will be able to be lifted next month.
Arrangements to celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the Club continue. Sunday 27th June, the 1st Xl take on a ‘Former Frenchay Xl’, when ‘old faces’ will grace the Bob Stone Ground again, and memories will be recalled late into the night over a beer or three! On Friday 9th July, the Club host an MCC Team in a Celebration match. The Falcons Disability Group lead the way on Sunday 8th August, hosting a Festival of matches against similar sides from across the south west. On Sunday15th August, the Youth Section will be running a ‘Youth Day’, bringing all the young players together in a festival of cricket. Following this on Sunday 22nd August, the Falcons have a ‘Family Morning’ at the Club.
For the first time for some years, the Club will be putting out four ‘Senior’ Teams in the Bristol and District League on Saturdays, including lots of opportunities for the extensive number of young players coming up through the youth system. In addition, the Women’s Softball Squad have a full list of fixtures, with a full list of league matches and Festivals, and the ten Youth Squads have already been very busy training and playing.
For children in the area, Frenchay has some opportunities:
Years 5 & 6 Girls – ‘Girls only’ Dynamos Cricket - a programme of sessions starting 9th May for those new to cricket. More information: ecb.co.uk/dynamoscricket or Jim Donaldson [email protected]
‘SEND’ Children in Years 4 – 6 Primary School age – Falcons Dynamo Cricket. For beginners to experience cricket and have fun learning, starting Monday 17th May. More information: ecb.co.uk/dynamoscricket or Rachel Eccott [email protected]
Excellent news with the ‘Roadmap’ timings upheld, and cricket in full swing. While there are still some restrictions on and off the field, hopefully most of these will be able to be lifted next month.
Arrangements to celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the Club continue. Sunday 27th June, the 1st Xl take on a ‘Former Frenchay Xl’, when ‘old faces’ will grace the Bob Stone Ground again, and memories will be recalled late into the night over a beer or three! On Friday 9th July, the Club host an MCC Team in a Celebration match. The Falcons Disability Group lead the way on Sunday 8th August, hosting a Festival of matches against similar sides from across the south west. On Sunday15th August, the Youth Section will be running a ‘Youth Day’, bringing all the young players together in a festival of cricket. Following this on Sunday 22nd August, the Falcons have a ‘Family Morning’ at the Club.
For the first time for some years, the Club will be putting out four ‘Senior’ Teams in the Bristol and District League on Saturdays, including lots of opportunities for the extensive number of young players coming up through the youth system. In addition, the Women’s Softball Squad have a full list of fixtures, with a full list of league matches and Festivals, and the ten Youth Squads have already been very busy training and playing.
For children in the area, Frenchay has some opportunities:
Years 5 & 6 Girls – ‘Girls only’ Dynamos Cricket - a programme of sessions starting 9th May for those new to cricket. More information: ecb.co.uk/dynamoscricket or Jim Donaldson [email protected]
‘SEND’ Children in Years 4 – 6 Primary School age – Falcons Dynamo Cricket. For beginners to experience cricket and have fun learning, starting Monday 17th May. More information: ecb.co.uk/dynamoscricket or Rachel Eccott [email protected]
April 2021
We are very pleased that, as this is written, the English Cricket Board (ECB) have advised clubs to prepare for a ‘full season’ starting in April. Detailed guidance from ECB as to how this can take place safely is coming, and the experience of last season will assist everyone being ready. We anticipate similar restrictions involving ‘social distancing’, numbers, hand sanitising, no use of the changing rooms or refreshments etc, extending at least for the early season. Local Youth and Senior Leagues are organising Fixtures generally starting in May, and Frenchay has arranged a series of Friendlies for our four ‘Senior’ sides, starting on Saturday 10th April.. For Junior cricket details and contacts, please refer to the item below.
The 175th Anniversary celebrations are taking shape with matches planned for later in the summer.
We are very pleased that, as this is written, the English Cricket Board (ECB) have advised clubs to prepare for a ‘full season’ starting in April. Detailed guidance from ECB as to how this can take place safely is coming, and the experience of last season will assist everyone being ready. We anticipate similar restrictions involving ‘social distancing’, numbers, hand sanitising, no use of the changing rooms or refreshments etc, extending at least for the early season. Local Youth and Senior Leagues are organising Fixtures generally starting in May, and Frenchay has arranged a series of Friendlies for our four ‘Senior’ sides, starting on Saturday 10th April.. For Junior cricket details and contacts, please refer to the item below.
The 175th Anniversary celebrations are taking shape with matches planned for later in the summer.
March 2021
Writing in early February with ‘Lockdown’ still in full operation, but promising signs in the community that some lifting of the restrictions will occur reasonably soon. In terms of cricket, we have written off any indoor ‘pre-season’ activities as the ‘outdoor season’ approaches. We will have to wait until the Government announce the details of how ‘lockdown’ will be released, the English Cricket Board (ECB) have advised local Leagues to prepare for a ‘regular season’ starting April/May. So, at ‘senior’ and ‘youth’ levels, we are similarly preparing as best we can with squads being assembled, fixtures confirmed, pitches booked etc. Should it turn out that restrictions prevent a ‘normal’ start to matches, we will adjust to what is considered safe.
For children in the area, providing the season goes ahead, Frenchay have opportunities: -
Writing in early February with ‘Lockdown’ still in full operation, but promising signs in the community that some lifting of the restrictions will occur reasonably soon. In terms of cricket, we have written off any indoor ‘pre-season’ activities as the ‘outdoor season’ approaches. We will have to wait until the Government announce the details of how ‘lockdown’ will be released, the English Cricket Board (ECB) have advised local Leagues to prepare for a ‘regular season’ starting April/May. So, at ‘senior’ and ‘youth’ levels, we are similarly preparing as best we can with squads being assembled, fixtures confirmed, pitches booked etc. Should it turn out that restrictions prevent a ‘normal’ start to matches, we will adjust to what is considered safe.
For children in the area, providing the season goes ahead, Frenchay have opportunities: -
- 5 – 8-year-olds (Boys and Girls) - All Stars at Frenchay. A programme of sessions for beginners and those who attended All Stars before, starting (anticipated) in the middle of May. More information from www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars Also contact [email protected]
- 8 – 9 Year olds (Years 3 & 4) Boys and Girls - Under 9s for those with some experience or more confidence, join the Under 9 Group. Contact [email protected]
- Years 5 & 6 Girls – ‘Girls only’ Dynamos Cricket - a programme of sessions starting (anticipated) mid-May for those who would like to try cricket, and linking with the existing, small Under 11 Girls Group. And for those who learn, have fun and enjoy themselves, the chance to continue playing through the summer. More information from
- ‘SEND’ Children in Years 4 – 6 Primary School age – Falcons Dynamo Cricket. For beginners to experience cricket and have fun learning. More information from ecb.co.uk/dynamoscricket Also contact Rachel Eccott [email protected]
February 2021
Well, the twists and turns that have become familiar with the continuing situation that we are all facing, led to the plans set out in January for lots of fixtures in various indoor youth competitions and the Falcons Disability Cricket Group being put off and everything on hold again. We sincerely hope the overall situation will improve for everyone as spring approaches.
Taking the positive approach, plans are well ahead now, putting in place regular seasons for both senior and youth cricket in the summer. Only time will tell if that proves to be the case and administrators now have the largely successful experiences from last year to use to adjust plans if this proves necessary.
Excellent news for the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group, is that the Stoke Park Friends have again, via the Quartet Community Foundation, agreed to support this important initiative by funding the Senior Falcons summer programme involving coaching sessions, festivals and matches.
Equally as important, our plans to expand the Falcons by introducing a Junior Falcons programme for Key Stage Two disabled children, using the new ECB Dynamos scheme, can go ahead in 2021. This is because South Gloucestershire Council grants team have agreed to us using the funding originally planned for 2020, via the support kindly agreed by Councillor Ben Burton through the Member Awarded Funding scheme. The opportunity to give more young people the chance to become physically active and to act as the pathway to the Senior Falcons is so important.
Well, the twists and turns that have become familiar with the continuing situation that we are all facing, led to the plans set out in January for lots of fixtures in various indoor youth competitions and the Falcons Disability Cricket Group being put off and everything on hold again. We sincerely hope the overall situation will improve for everyone as spring approaches.
Taking the positive approach, plans are well ahead now, putting in place regular seasons for both senior and youth cricket in the summer. Only time will tell if that proves to be the case and administrators now have the largely successful experiences from last year to use to adjust plans if this proves necessary.
Excellent news for the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group, is that the Stoke Park Friends have again, via the Quartet Community Foundation, agreed to support this important initiative by funding the Senior Falcons summer programme involving coaching sessions, festivals and matches.
Equally as important, our plans to expand the Falcons by introducing a Junior Falcons programme for Key Stage Two disabled children, using the new ECB Dynamos scheme, can go ahead in 2021. This is because South Gloucestershire Council grants team have agreed to us using the funding originally planned for 2020, via the support kindly agreed by Councillor Ben Burton through the Member Awarded Funding scheme. The opportunity to give more young people the chance to become physically active and to act as the pathway to the Senior Falcons is so important.
November 2020
After the delayed start to the season, both youth and senior cricket continued through September in generally good weather conditions for the first time for ages. In addition, the club also hosted several Gloucestershire Girls’ County age group matches, each of which featured a number of our girls.
Reflecting on the very different season to the ‘norm’, the general feeling was that after fearing no cricket season at all during the earlier stages of lockdown, everyone at the club had been able to enjoy a great deal of cricket, all played safely in Covid 19 circumstances. Although the usual hospitality side of proceedings was considerably curtailed, the generally good weather throughout the summer, had provided the opportunity for many to play or watch. A great deal of thanks was due to the very hard-working grounds Team, often preparing for two matches per evening and weekends every week.
During September and October, a good number of boys and girls have earned the opportunity to attend county trials for the various age group performance squads, and we await the outcome of those with interest.
While the increased restrictions brought in by the ‘rule of six’ will restrict adult indoor participation, the allowance for the disabled to continue, together with Dings safely reopening the sports hall at Shaftesbury Park, has enabled the Falcons Disability Group to start their winter indoor programme on Sundays. This is such an important and rewarding activity for a group of the more vulnerable in society.
As the autumn sets in, the volunteer grounds team have been really busy, weather permitting, with winter preparation works on the ground, particularly preparing the two squares for next season.
After the delayed start to the season, both youth and senior cricket continued through September in generally good weather conditions for the first time for ages. In addition, the club also hosted several Gloucestershire Girls’ County age group matches, each of which featured a number of our girls.
Reflecting on the very different season to the ‘norm’, the general feeling was that after fearing no cricket season at all during the earlier stages of lockdown, everyone at the club had been able to enjoy a great deal of cricket, all played safely in Covid 19 circumstances. Although the usual hospitality side of proceedings was considerably curtailed, the generally good weather throughout the summer, had provided the opportunity for many to play or watch. A great deal of thanks was due to the very hard-working grounds Team, often preparing for two matches per evening and weekends every week.
During September and October, a good number of boys and girls have earned the opportunity to attend county trials for the various age group performance squads, and we await the outcome of those with interest.
While the increased restrictions brought in by the ‘rule of six’ will restrict adult indoor participation, the allowance for the disabled to continue, together with Dings safely reopening the sports hall at Shaftesbury Park, has enabled the Falcons Disability Group to start their winter indoor programme on Sundays. This is such an important and rewarding activity for a group of the more vulnerable in society.
As the autumn sets in, the volunteer grounds team have been really busy, weather permitting, with winter preparation works on the ground, particularly preparing the two squares for next season.
October 2020
The outdoor season has been successfully completed amidst the Covid 19 safety measures, with the 1st Xl finishing top of their pod of six teams. Additionally, Mike Donaldson was ‘Top Batsman, Ben Helps ‘Top Bowler’ and Natasha Wraith ‘Top Fielder’.
The 2nds and 3rds also completed their season successfully, and a 4th Xl played several matches. Such was the enthusiasm that the decision has now been taken to enter a 4th Xl in the Bristol and District League in 2021. This will particularly provide further development opportunities for our younger players in their progression.
The youth teams completed their truncated season, and U11, U13 and U15 teams reached the final stages of the Bristol Youth League competitions with some very competitive matches witnessed. Meantime, a number of the boys will have attended trials for age group Gloucestershire Performance Squads for 2021, and the girls will be preparing for their trials in October.
The Womens Softball Group has gone from strength to strength, with numbers and enthusiasm increasing as matches were played against similar opposition, with lots of fun. The Falcons Disability Group has also grown in numbers, and members are hoping that the English Cricket Board will give the go-ahead for indoor cricket to restart, so they can continue in the sports hall at Shaftesbury Park this month.
At the ground, the volunteer groundstaff have been busy carrying out the end of season renovations to the squares, preparing them for the season ahead in 2021. These are really important works to ensure that the pitches are in tip top condition when action restarts in April.
Stay safe everyone in these challenging times.
The outdoor season has been successfully completed amidst the Covid 19 safety measures, with the 1st Xl finishing top of their pod of six teams. Additionally, Mike Donaldson was ‘Top Batsman, Ben Helps ‘Top Bowler’ and Natasha Wraith ‘Top Fielder’.
The 2nds and 3rds also completed their season successfully, and a 4th Xl played several matches. Such was the enthusiasm that the decision has now been taken to enter a 4th Xl in the Bristol and District League in 2021. This will particularly provide further development opportunities for our younger players in their progression.
The youth teams completed their truncated season, and U11, U13 and U15 teams reached the final stages of the Bristol Youth League competitions with some very competitive matches witnessed. Meantime, a number of the boys will have attended trials for age group Gloucestershire Performance Squads for 2021, and the girls will be preparing for their trials in October.
The Womens Softball Group has gone from strength to strength, with numbers and enthusiasm increasing as matches were played against similar opposition, with lots of fun. The Falcons Disability Group has also grown in numbers, and members are hoping that the English Cricket Board will give the go-ahead for indoor cricket to restart, so they can continue in the sports hall at Shaftesbury Park this month.
At the ground, the volunteer groundstaff have been busy carrying out the end of season renovations to the squares, preparing them for the season ahead in 2021. These are really important works to ensure that the pitches are in tip top condition when action restarts in April.
Stay safe everyone in these challenging times.
September 2020
The weather in later July and into August has played its part so far in the very welcome, long awaited start of the cricket season. A lot of volunteers took time to develop the Covid 19 secure processes required at the Bob Stone Ground for teams of all ages to safely enjoy the experience of playing outdoor cricket once again. These include:
The senior sides began with a series of friendlies, and through August, the Bristol and District League have organised local pods of six teams playing each other competitively, which is going well. The Frenchay season is set to continue into September with further ‘fiendlies’ already fixed up. The women’s softball group has proved popular, and have now taken part in
several matches against similar groups from clubs in the area.
Meantime, the youth teams have been equally busy with the boys and girls leagues setting up competitive, locally based groups with weekly fixtures, giving the young players the opportunity to enjoy playing.
We haven’t been able to recreate ‘Frenchay Youth Fridays’ training and socialising for youngsters and parents alike, but everyone is so relieved and thankful to be back again.
Stay safe everyone.
The weather in later July and into August has played its part so far in the very welcome, long awaited start of the cricket season. A lot of volunteers took time to develop the Covid 19 secure processes required at the Bob Stone Ground for teams of all ages to safely enjoy the experience of playing outdoor cricket once again. These include:
- restrictions avoiding the use of the changing rooms and limiting the use of indoor spaces,
- outdoor team areas for both pitches,
- players and officials arriving already changed,
- no kitchen facilities provided.
The senior sides began with a series of friendlies, and through August, the Bristol and District League have organised local pods of six teams playing each other competitively, which is going well. The Frenchay season is set to continue into September with further ‘fiendlies’ already fixed up. The women’s softball group has proved popular, and have now taken part in
several matches against similar groups from clubs in the area.
Meantime, the youth teams have been equally busy with the boys and girls leagues setting up competitive, locally based groups with weekly fixtures, giving the young players the opportunity to enjoy playing.
We haven’t been able to recreate ‘Frenchay Youth Fridays’ training and socialising for youngsters and parents alike, but everyone is so relieved and thankful to be back again.
Stay safe everyone.
August 2020
As I write this article, we can celebrate because the detailed guidance for restarting recreational cricket has just been published by the English Cricket Board (ECB), following the recent decision by the government to allow the restart of many team sports. We have already been able to reopen the clubhouse for limited use, so this is very welcome news as the summer progresses. After all, not that long ago, I personally felt that we were going to completely lose the summer of 2020 to cricket. Now we are starting to plan how coaches will lead the youth teams using the understandably ‘safe’ restrictions set out by the ECB.
There are lots of fixtures now planned for the senior teams, the womens softball group, and the numerous boys and girls youth teams. We will just keep our fingers crossed that the weather is kind during August and September, as we look to make up for lost time.
Meanwhile, off the field, understandably the club has been told that financial support from the ECB and Sport England will not be available to progress our plans for the new pavilion later this year. We now need to review where we are, and look ahead positively.
In fact, 2021 sees the club able to celebrate its 175th Anniversary. As 2020 has been an extremely challenging time for other reasons so far, we haven’t been able to afford to give much thought to how to celebrate this immense anniversary. But, ‘thinking caps’ are now on, and we are looking forward to a good 2021, hopefully with the pandemic conditions behind all of society.
As I write this article, we can celebrate because the detailed guidance for restarting recreational cricket has just been published by the English Cricket Board (ECB), following the recent decision by the government to allow the restart of many team sports. We have already been able to reopen the clubhouse for limited use, so this is very welcome news as the summer progresses. After all, not that long ago, I personally felt that we were going to completely lose the summer of 2020 to cricket. Now we are starting to plan how coaches will lead the youth teams using the understandably ‘safe’ restrictions set out by the ECB.
There are lots of fixtures now planned for the senior teams, the womens softball group, and the numerous boys and girls youth teams. We will just keep our fingers crossed that the weather is kind during August and September, as we look to make up for lost time.
Meanwhile, off the field, understandably the club has been told that financial support from the ECB and Sport England will not be available to progress our plans for the new pavilion later this year. We now need to review where we are, and look ahead positively.
In fact, 2021 sees the club able to celebrate its 175th Anniversary. As 2020 has been an extremely challenging time for other reasons so far, we haven’t been able to afford to give much thought to how to celebrate this immense anniversary. But, ‘thinking caps’ are now on, and we are looking forward to a good 2021, hopefully with the pandemic conditions behind all of society.
July 2020
Well, when I wrote our last contribution early in March, little did anyone predict what lay in store for the whole of society, never mind local cricket.
As this is written in early June, our situation is that very limited activity is allowed at the ground. For practical purposes, this is restricted to training work in one of the two outdoor practice nets.
The English Cricket Board (ECB) has recently announced that up to 6 unrelated people can now join, with social distancing conditions. However, traditional cricket training and matches are based on a single ball being shared, and we are still working on how this can work effectively with the current restrictions. We hope that the pandemic conditions will continue to relent as the summer progresses, and the club can get some worthwhile activity taking place for youth and seniors. However only time will tell.
It has been very frustrating that the weather has been so favourable for cricket. We can only imagine Frenchay Youth Fridays on those balmy April and May evenings, with the ground heaving until late with active and happy young players, parents and siblings. Volunteers would have been incredibly busy restocking the refreshments, and so many matches would have been completed. But it is what it is, and the health and well being of individuals has been and remains paramount.
Off the field, we are making progress developing the details of the new pavilion. However, it now seems unlikely that any work will start on the scheme this year, as ECB and Sport England priorities have been understandably diverted away from new projects for the time being.
Well, when I wrote our last contribution early in March, little did anyone predict what lay in store for the whole of society, never mind local cricket.
As this is written in early June, our situation is that very limited activity is allowed at the ground. For practical purposes, this is restricted to training work in one of the two outdoor practice nets.
The English Cricket Board (ECB) has recently announced that up to 6 unrelated people can now join, with social distancing conditions. However, traditional cricket training and matches are based on a single ball being shared, and we are still working on how this can work effectively with the current restrictions. We hope that the pandemic conditions will continue to relent as the summer progresses, and the club can get some worthwhile activity taking place for youth and seniors. However only time will tell.
It has been very frustrating that the weather has been so favourable for cricket. We can only imagine Frenchay Youth Fridays on those balmy April and May evenings, with the ground heaving until late with active and happy young players, parents and siblings. Volunteers would have been incredibly busy restocking the refreshments, and so many matches would have been completed. But it is what it is, and the health and well being of individuals has been and remains paramount.
Off the field, we are making progress developing the details of the new pavilion. However, it now seems unlikely that any work will start on the scheme this year, as ECB and Sport England priorities have been understandably diverted away from new projects for the time being.
March 2020
Pride of place this month is the granting of planning permission by South Gloucestershire Council for our new pavilion. This excellent news paves the way for concerted action to finalise the funding and get this long needed and patiently awaited facility up and running for the benefit of club members and the wider community.
The scheme involves four separate changing rooms (two per pitch) plus two ‘half size’ changing rooms, which can double as changing for umpires or mixed teams. We hope that this design will get support from the English Cricket Board (ECB) at a time when there is a greater focus than ever on women and girls playing cricket. More updates through the summer as this Project develops momentum.
With a new clubroom also granted permission at the Downend and Frenchay Tennis Courts, there are exciting times ahead at the Bob Stone Ground.
Pre-season indoor practice sessions continue, seniors at Orchard School, Horfield, and most youth teams at Colston’s, Stapleton. More details (Seniors) [email protected] and (Youth) [email protected]
Meanwhile the indoor leagues have gone well, the boys and girls enjoying the experience on a Saturday at the County Ground, and the girls on Sundays at Castle School, Thornbury. The Falcons Disability Cricket Group have indoor sessions Sundays (1.00 – 2.00) at Shaftesbury Park.
In addition, we are pleased that through a generous grant from the Stoke Park Friends, sessions for the ‘Senior Falcons’ (Senior School/Adults) are now set up for the summer. Frenchay is also forming a ‘Junior Falcons’ this summer for Key Stage 2 SEND Children. A big thank you to Councillor Ben Burton for his support with a Member Awarded Fund Grant to help this new venture get established, which we are also promoting through the new ECB ‘Dynamos’ Scheme. Contact [email protected]
Pride of place this month is the granting of planning permission by South Gloucestershire Council for our new pavilion. This excellent news paves the way for concerted action to finalise the funding and get this long needed and patiently awaited facility up and running for the benefit of club members and the wider community.
The scheme involves four separate changing rooms (two per pitch) plus two ‘half size’ changing rooms, which can double as changing for umpires or mixed teams. We hope that this design will get support from the English Cricket Board (ECB) at a time when there is a greater focus than ever on women and girls playing cricket. More updates through the summer as this Project develops momentum.
With a new clubroom also granted permission at the Downend and Frenchay Tennis Courts, there are exciting times ahead at the Bob Stone Ground.
Pre-season indoor practice sessions continue, seniors at Orchard School, Horfield, and most youth teams at Colston’s, Stapleton. More details (Seniors) [email protected] and (Youth) [email protected]
Meanwhile the indoor leagues have gone well, the boys and girls enjoying the experience on a Saturday at the County Ground, and the girls on Sundays at Castle School, Thornbury. The Falcons Disability Cricket Group have indoor sessions Sundays (1.00 – 2.00) at Shaftesbury Park.
In addition, we are pleased that through a generous grant from the Stoke Park Friends, sessions for the ‘Senior Falcons’ (Senior School/Adults) are now set up for the summer. Frenchay is also forming a ‘Junior Falcons’ this summer for Key Stage 2 SEND Children. A big thank you to Councillor Ben Burton for his support with a Member Awarded Fund Grant to help this new venture get established, which we are also promoting through the new ECB ‘Dynamos’ Scheme. Contact [email protected]
February 2020
Pride of place this month goes to five Frenchay girls, Phoebe Bradford, Izzy Carey, Lily Knox, Izzy Patel and Sarah Walsh. We wish them the very best fortune as they jet off to the Delhi area in Northern India for twelve days of cricket (and sightseeing) with Glos U17 Girls. Enjoy the wonderful opportunity girls, you have thoroughly earned the chance of this experience!
Looking ahead, indoor practice sessions have started for the Seniors at Orchard School, Horfield (contact: [email protected]) and for most of the Youth Squads at Colston’s School, Stapleton (contact: [email protected]).
In addition, the U13 Boys and the Flames Girls are involved in the DFCA Indoor League at the County Ground on Saturdays. The U12 Girls have two teams in the Gloucestershire (South) Girls Indoor League on Sundays at Castle School, Thornbury.
At the ground, the huge improvements stemming from the new drainage system at the lower end of the playing field, showed their worth in the really wet spells of weather in the autumn. In earlier times, that part of the field would have been literally swamped with the volumes of rain that fell on the Frenchay clay. The surface in this area has also now recovered well from all the criss-cross trenches that were excavated to install the new system. Those of us who have been around for some time, are still pinching ourselves when we see the dramatic improvement created by the very sound investment, kindly supported by Sport England and South Gloucestershire Council.
The Falcon Disability Group, primarily aimed at those with learning difficulties in the 11+ to adult age groups, restart their inoor cricket opportunity this month in the Sports Hall at Dings, Shaftesbury Park, regularly on Sundays (1.00 – 2.00). Contact Rachel at [email protected].
Pride of place this month goes to five Frenchay girls, Phoebe Bradford, Izzy Carey, Lily Knox, Izzy Patel and Sarah Walsh. We wish them the very best fortune as they jet off to the Delhi area in Northern India for twelve days of cricket (and sightseeing) with Glos U17 Girls. Enjoy the wonderful opportunity girls, you have thoroughly earned the chance of this experience!
Looking ahead, indoor practice sessions have started for the Seniors at Orchard School, Horfield (contact: [email protected]) and for most of the Youth Squads at Colston’s School, Stapleton (contact: [email protected]).
In addition, the U13 Boys and the Flames Girls are involved in the DFCA Indoor League at the County Ground on Saturdays. The U12 Girls have two teams in the Gloucestershire (South) Girls Indoor League on Sundays at Castle School, Thornbury.
At the ground, the huge improvements stemming from the new drainage system at the lower end of the playing field, showed their worth in the really wet spells of weather in the autumn. In earlier times, that part of the field would have been literally swamped with the volumes of rain that fell on the Frenchay clay. The surface in this area has also now recovered well from all the criss-cross trenches that were excavated to install the new system. Those of us who have been around for some time, are still pinching ourselves when we see the dramatic improvement created by the very sound investment, kindly supported by Sport England and South Gloucestershire Council.
The Falcon Disability Group, primarily aimed at those with learning difficulties in the 11+ to adult age groups, restart their inoor cricket opportunity this month in the Sports Hall at Dings, Shaftesbury Park, regularly on Sundays (1.00 – 2.00). Contact Rachel at [email protected].
January 2020
The cricket club wishes all readers a very happy and peaceful New Year.
Pride of place is that Frenchay recently won the very prestigious English Cricket Board (ECB) Coaches Association ‘National Coaching Club of the Year’ Award. Head Coach Matt Hunkin attended the black tie evening in Hertfordshire, to collect the embossed tankard and certificate. The award is in recognition of the hours of hard work put into the youth system and Falcons Disability Groups. It also acknowledges the support given to those coaching, because the club has encouraged 13 coaches through the ECB Coach Education ‘Level Two’ course in the past four years. Tthanks also to the superb support from South Gloucestershire Council and the Gloucestershire Cricket Board.
Looking ahead, 21 of our young players will soon be embarking on the exacting winter performance programmes of the various county age groups. Congratulations go to these young players for their dedication to improve, they are: -
We have also had great news that the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket programme has been recognised by the Lords Taverners and ECB as a ‘Super 1 Hub’. This is a recognition of the work done to date, with lots of support from South Gloucestershire Council and provides further opportunities looking ahead.
Indoor net sessions start soon for seniors and youth squads
The cricket club wishes all readers a very happy and peaceful New Year.
Pride of place is that Frenchay recently won the very prestigious English Cricket Board (ECB) Coaches Association ‘National Coaching Club of the Year’ Award. Head Coach Matt Hunkin attended the black tie evening in Hertfordshire, to collect the embossed tankard and certificate. The award is in recognition of the hours of hard work put into the youth system and Falcons Disability Groups. It also acknowledges the support given to those coaching, because the club has encouraged 13 coaches through the ECB Coach Education ‘Level Two’ course in the past four years. Tthanks also to the superb support from South Gloucestershire Council and the Gloucestershire Cricket Board.
Looking ahead, 21 of our young players will soon be embarking on the exacting winter performance programmes of the various county age groups. Congratulations go to these young players for their dedication to improve, they are: -
- U10 Boys ‘County’ Sam Green;
- U11 Boys ‘Stroud & Sth Glos Development’ Morgan Cranny;
- U11 Girls ‘County’ Lilly Moss, Daisy and Poppy Dalton, Sophia Lovell;
- U13 Girls ‘County’ Ellie Donaldson, Jemima Smith;
- U13 Girls ‘Development’ Sophie Pickering, Darcie Ford, Krithika Karthik;
- U15 Girls ‘County’ Izzy Patel, Rachel Le Poidevin; Izzy Richards;
- U15 Girls ‘Development’ Evie Patterson, Fiona Plenty, Lilia Payne;
- U17 Girls County Sarah Walsh, Lily Knox, Izzy Carey and Phoebe Bradford.
We have also had great news that the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket programme has been recognised by the Lords Taverners and ECB as a ‘Super 1 Hub’. This is a recognition of the work done to date, with lots of support from South Gloucestershire Council and provides further opportunities looking ahead.
Indoor net sessions start soon for seniors and youth squads
December 2019
Progress on the new pavilion planning application has been satisfactory, with the formal decision expected soon.
It is time to celebrate the achievements of some of our youth players last season. At Gloucestershire County level, Darcie Ford received the U11 Performance of the Year, and Lily Knox and Helen Cutler the same award at U15s and U17s respectively.
Hot off the press, Izzy Patel, Lily Knox, Izzy Carey, Phoebe Bradford and Sarah Walsh are included in the wonderful opportunity to tour Northern India in February with the Gloucestershire U17 Girls Squad.
At the youth presentation evening, Izzy Patel received the Youth Player of the Year award. The Youth Clubman of the Year award went to the twelve young players who undertook the ECB Cricket Activators course this year, volunteering to help across wide areas at the club: Sonny Reynolds, Tim Dobinson, Luke Thompson, Lily Knox, Charmaine Patole, Izzy Patel, Rachel Le Poidevin, Cameron Ford, Liam Donaldson, Joe Moss, Harvey Sandhu and Will Forsyth.
Other individual Awards went to: -
U11 Boys – Batter of the Year - Sami Majid Wood; Bowler of the Year - Sam Green; Coaches Award - Oliver Stokes
U11 Girls – All Rounders of the Year - Daisy and Poppy Dalton; Team Player of the Year - Jasmine Sappal
U13 Boys – Batter of the Year - Harry Hussy; Coaches Award - Tom Leary
U13 Heat Girls – Pairs player of the Year - Charis Oram, Player of the Year - Evie Patterson, Performance of the Year - Fiona Plenty
U15 Boys – Batter of the Year - Joe Moss; Bowler of the Year - Sonny Reynolds; Most Improved Player - Will Ferguson; Bowler of the Year - Tim Dobinson
U15 Flames Girls – Player of the Year - Izzy Patel, Managers Award - Charmaine Patole, Performance of the Year - Sarah Walsh
U17 Fire Girls – Batter of the Year - Izzy Patel, Managers Award - Hannah Skidmore
Progress on the new pavilion planning application has been satisfactory, with the formal decision expected soon.
It is time to celebrate the achievements of some of our youth players last season. At Gloucestershire County level, Darcie Ford received the U11 Performance of the Year, and Lily Knox and Helen Cutler the same award at U15s and U17s respectively.
Hot off the press, Izzy Patel, Lily Knox, Izzy Carey, Phoebe Bradford and Sarah Walsh are included in the wonderful opportunity to tour Northern India in February with the Gloucestershire U17 Girls Squad.
At the youth presentation evening, Izzy Patel received the Youth Player of the Year award. The Youth Clubman of the Year award went to the twelve young players who undertook the ECB Cricket Activators course this year, volunteering to help across wide areas at the club: Sonny Reynolds, Tim Dobinson, Luke Thompson, Lily Knox, Charmaine Patole, Izzy Patel, Rachel Le Poidevin, Cameron Ford, Liam Donaldson, Joe Moss, Harvey Sandhu and Will Forsyth.
Other individual Awards went to: -
U11 Boys – Batter of the Year - Sami Majid Wood; Bowler of the Year - Sam Green; Coaches Award - Oliver Stokes
U11 Girls – All Rounders of the Year - Daisy and Poppy Dalton; Team Player of the Year - Jasmine Sappal
U13 Boys – Batter of the Year - Harry Hussy; Coaches Award - Tom Leary
U13 Heat Girls – Pairs player of the Year - Charis Oram, Player of the Year - Evie Patterson, Performance of the Year - Fiona Plenty
U15 Boys – Batter of the Year - Joe Moss; Bowler of the Year - Sonny Reynolds; Most Improved Player - Will Ferguson; Bowler of the Year - Tim Dobinson
U15 Flames Girls – Player of the Year - Izzy Patel, Managers Award - Charmaine Patole, Performance of the Year - Sarah Walsh
U17 Fire Girls – Batter of the Year - Izzy Patel, Managers Award - Hannah Skidmore
November 219
The annual Senior Presentation Dinner was held for the first time at the Dings impressive facility at Shaftesbury Park. It was a super evening in very well appointed accommodation, with good cooperation, food, drink and service, and the facility can be highly recommended.
Star of the celebrations was local boy Ben Helps. Having come up through the youth system, Ben excelled with the ball in the 1st Xl. He scooped the Cricketer of the Year award, as well as the John Hickman Players Player and Phil Pascal Performance of the Year awards (for taking 6 for 31 v Timsbury).
Clubman of the Year went to Alan Payne for his work aimed at fundraising for the new pavilion, while James Moss deservedly collected the‘Ian and Christine Golding award for services to the club. Reece Bevan was named Young Player of the Year, Dave Perkins the 2nd Xl Player, and Dan Thorne the 3rd Xl Player. The Champagne Moments awards went to Tom Williams (1st Xl), Sonny Reynolds (2nd Xl) and Tim Dobinson (3rd Xl).
Most notably, all the players receiving awards are either still in or have come up through the Frenchay youth system. While Chairman Steve Woodsford had to reflect on relegation for the 1st Xl, he rightly celebrated the achievements of our younger players, with lots of them graduating to and performing well in the senior teams. Two U15 boys made the 1st Xl, five the 2nd Xl, and no less than nine of the older girls played for the 3rds over the season.
Next month, I will focus of the youth awards, and with 220 boys and girls involved, there is a lot to celebrate. I will also update the progress of the planning application for the long awaited new pavilion.
The annual Senior Presentation Dinner was held for the first time at the Dings impressive facility at Shaftesbury Park. It was a super evening in very well appointed accommodation, with good cooperation, food, drink and service, and the facility can be highly recommended.
Star of the celebrations was local boy Ben Helps. Having come up through the youth system, Ben excelled with the ball in the 1st Xl. He scooped the Cricketer of the Year award, as well as the John Hickman Players Player and Phil Pascal Performance of the Year awards (for taking 6 for 31 v Timsbury).
Clubman of the Year went to Alan Payne for his work aimed at fundraising for the new pavilion, while James Moss deservedly collected the‘Ian and Christine Golding award for services to the club. Reece Bevan was named Young Player of the Year, Dave Perkins the 2nd Xl Player, and Dan Thorne the 3rd Xl Player. The Champagne Moments awards went to Tom Williams (1st Xl), Sonny Reynolds (2nd Xl) and Tim Dobinson (3rd Xl).
Most notably, all the players receiving awards are either still in or have come up through the Frenchay youth system. While Chairman Steve Woodsford had to reflect on relegation for the 1st Xl, he rightly celebrated the achievements of our younger players, with lots of them graduating to and performing well in the senior teams. Two U15 boys made the 1st Xl, five the 2nd Xl, and no less than nine of the older girls played for the 3rds over the season.
Next month, I will focus of the youth awards, and with 220 boys and girls involved, there is a lot to celebrate. I will also update the progress of the planning application for the long awaited new pavilion.
October 2019
Despite a nail-biting victory over neighbours Stapleton in the final match, the 1st Xl have dropped back into the Bristol and District League for 2020. Reflecting on a mixed season, while the side actually recorded wins against top teams, it was the batting side of the overall performances that fell short.
Despite the disappointment, the message has got to be ‘let’s build on what worked well, and bounce back next year’. The 2nd Xl did well to secure their place in Division 4, and the 3rd Xl achieved much this year, with a young, mixed gender side, providing excellent opportunities for gaining valuable experience.
On the final day of the season, a further, young (mixed gender) 4th Xl travelled up to Stroud to take part in a very well contested match. It is exciting and very encouraging that so many of the boys and girls coming up through our thriving youth system, have the confidence (and support) to challenge themselves in the generally adult male world of senior cricket.
Pride of place for the youth season goes to the U13 Frenchay Heat Girls (pictured). The side made history by becoming the first all girls team to win a Bristol Youth League age group championship in 48 years. There was extremely accurate bowling, with Fiona Plenty deservedly earning the Player of the Match award with 5 wickets for just 2 runs. They cruised past Bristol YMCA B for a seven wicket win.
Close behind the girls came the U13 Boys, who were just pipped by Gloucester in the newly organised Gwendoline House North v South Gloucestershire Cup final.
Despite a nail-biting victory over neighbours Stapleton in the final match, the 1st Xl have dropped back into the Bristol and District League for 2020. Reflecting on a mixed season, while the side actually recorded wins against top teams, it was the batting side of the overall performances that fell short.
Despite the disappointment, the message has got to be ‘let’s build on what worked well, and bounce back next year’. The 2nd Xl did well to secure their place in Division 4, and the 3rd Xl achieved much this year, with a young, mixed gender side, providing excellent opportunities for gaining valuable experience.
On the final day of the season, a further, young (mixed gender) 4th Xl travelled up to Stroud to take part in a very well contested match. It is exciting and very encouraging that so many of the boys and girls coming up through our thriving youth system, have the confidence (and support) to challenge themselves in the generally adult male world of senior cricket.
Pride of place for the youth season goes to the U13 Frenchay Heat Girls (pictured). The side made history by becoming the first all girls team to win a Bristol Youth League age group championship in 48 years. There was extremely accurate bowling, with Fiona Plenty deservedly earning the Player of the Match award with 5 wickets for just 2 runs. They cruised past Bristol YMCA B for a seven wicket win.
Close behind the girls came the U13 Boys, who were just pipped by Gloucester in the newly organised Gwendoline House North v South Gloucestershire Cup final.
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The Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group, aimed principally at those with learning difficulties, are running indoor cricket sessions every Sunday (1.00 – 2.00) at Dings Sport Hall, 6th October – 8th December.
September 2019
On the field, the season will be coming to an all too soon end, although we have generally had pretty good weather conditions allowing most youth and senior teams to complete their fixtures. The 1st Xl's ‘mixed’ season has continued, and let’s hope they will have earned sufficient points to ensure retention of their league status. The 2nd Xl have also found their division pretty competitive, while the 3rd Xl great mix of seniors and youth has contributed towards a very satisfactory season.
Meantime, the youth section has reached 220+ young people from 5 years through to 17 enjoying their experiences, with just a little short of 50:50 boys/girls ratio. On the field, the investment in coaching resources and encouraging coaches/parents to achieve ECB standard qualification, has proved invaluable, with every team achieving improved performances, and an increasing number of individuals put forward for county performance trials for 2020.
Top achievers this season are the Heat Girls, who have reached to Bristol Youth League Under 11 Championship final, to complete for the Ray Baker Cup.
The Frenchay Falcons Disability Group will be running Indoor sessions again this year at Shaftesbury Park (Dings RFC), principally aimed at those with learning difficulties. Sessions will be Sundays 1.00 – 2.00, starting on 6th October through to 8th December, then 3rd February to 5th April.
Progress with the long awaited, desperately needed new pavilion, is that a planning application has been submitted to South Gloucestershire Council. The scheme is a new build broadly in the same position as the existing. The layout includes four full size changing rooms, two half size changing rooms (to accommodate umpires and mixed gender teams), with a social space between, and the necessary facilities towards the rear. We are hoping for a positive decision in the early autumn.
On the field, the season will be coming to an all too soon end, although we have generally had pretty good weather conditions allowing most youth and senior teams to complete their fixtures. The 1st Xl's ‘mixed’ season has continued, and let’s hope they will have earned sufficient points to ensure retention of their league status. The 2nd Xl have also found their division pretty competitive, while the 3rd Xl great mix of seniors and youth has contributed towards a very satisfactory season.
Meantime, the youth section has reached 220+ young people from 5 years through to 17 enjoying their experiences, with just a little short of 50:50 boys/girls ratio. On the field, the investment in coaching resources and encouraging coaches/parents to achieve ECB standard qualification, has proved invaluable, with every team achieving improved performances, and an increasing number of individuals put forward for county performance trials for 2020.
Top achievers this season are the Heat Girls, who have reached to Bristol Youth League Under 11 Championship final, to complete for the Ray Baker Cup.
The Frenchay Falcons Disability Group will be running Indoor sessions again this year at Shaftesbury Park (Dings RFC), principally aimed at those with learning difficulties. Sessions will be Sundays 1.00 – 2.00, starting on 6th October through to 8th December, then 3rd February to 5th April.
Progress with the long awaited, desperately needed new pavilion, is that a planning application has been submitted to South Gloucestershire Council. The scheme is a new build broadly in the same position as the existing. The layout includes four full size changing rooms, two half size changing rooms (to accommodate umpires and mixed gender teams), with a social space between, and the necessary facilities towards the rear. We are hoping for a positive decision in the early autumn.
August 2019
The seniors are mid-way through the season as this is written. The 1st Xl are having a mixed season in a division where any one can beat anyone else, so another few wins are needed before too long. The 2nds are doing reasonably well in a competitive division, and the 3rds are also doing well, blooding some younger players into senior cricket.
At youth level, the very mixed weather in June impacted on games played and training sessions. However, there are some very good and promising performances by the various teams, and we are looking forward to more progress being achieved as the season comes to a conclusion.
The U15 Boys lost narrowly in the National Cup South Gloucestershire final. The U11 Girls reached the County Finals Day to finish a very creditable 3rd’, the U13 Heat Girls went out of the Lady Taverners National competition at regional semi fnal’ stage to a strong Exeter outfit, and the U15 Girls lost to Broadstone (Dorset) in their Lady Taverners on the toss of a coin after attempts to play the match failed.
We ran a very successful Under 9 Tournament for clubs in the area in June, and also hosted three primary schools tournaments, where up to 16 teams had a day playing cricket, with the winning side going on to County Finals Day. Sadly, the poor weather meant the Special Educational Needs Primary Schools Day was cancelled.
Meanwhile, each Sunday morning, the 40+ children involved in All Stars have been really busy having fun, helped on a regular basis by some older youth players as part of their Cricket Activators commitment to volunteering.
The busy season continues in August with Youth Day on Sunday 4th, and the four Bristol Youth League Championship finals taking place on Sunday 11th August.
The seniors are mid-way through the season as this is written. The 1st Xl are having a mixed season in a division where any one can beat anyone else, so another few wins are needed before too long. The 2nds are doing reasonably well in a competitive division, and the 3rds are also doing well, blooding some younger players into senior cricket.
At youth level, the very mixed weather in June impacted on games played and training sessions. However, there are some very good and promising performances by the various teams, and we are looking forward to more progress being achieved as the season comes to a conclusion.
The U15 Boys lost narrowly in the National Cup South Gloucestershire final. The U11 Girls reached the County Finals Day to finish a very creditable 3rd’, the U13 Heat Girls went out of the Lady Taverners National competition at regional semi fnal’ stage to a strong Exeter outfit, and the U15 Girls lost to Broadstone (Dorset) in their Lady Taverners on the toss of a coin after attempts to play the match failed.
We ran a very successful Under 9 Tournament for clubs in the area in June, and also hosted three primary schools tournaments, where up to 16 teams had a day playing cricket, with the winning side going on to County Finals Day. Sadly, the poor weather meant the Special Educational Needs Primary Schools Day was cancelled.
Meanwhile, each Sunday morning, the 40+ children involved in All Stars have been really busy having fun, helped on a regular basis by some older youth players as part of their Cricket Activators commitment to volunteering.
The busy season continues in August with Youth Day on Sunday 4th, and the four Bristol Youth League Championship finals taking place on Sunday 11th August.
July 2019
As this is written, the season is well under way. The 1st Xl, back in the West of England Premier League, are holding their own, with a mix of wins and losses. The 2nds have fewer wins, but the 3rds, with a mixed gender, youthful side out each week, are showing real signs of good progress.
At youth level, the U15 Boys are through to the South Gloucestershire final of the National Cup, and both the U13 and U15 girls have made progress in their Lady Taverners National competitions. Progress in all the various Leagues and other cup competitions that the youth teams play in is pretty mixed, but the great thing is that there are now well over 200 young people enjoying cricket at the club, with almost half of them girls.
The Falcons disability group on a Monday continues to grow, and has featured on Geoff Twentyman’s Radio Bristol sports programme. And the women’s softball on a Thursday evening has proved pretty popular, although the weather hasn’t been the best of friends at times!
As we always do, the club has hosted regular Kwik Cricket competitions for primary schools, and this year, we also hosted a SEN primary schools competition, and it is great to see the large sports ground filled with children having fun.
Off the field, we are now close to submitting a planning application to South Gloucestershire Council for our long awaited and very badly needed new pavilion. Still some way to for the project to materialise, but good signs of support and action.
As this is written, the season is well under way. The 1st Xl, back in the West of England Premier League, are holding their own, with a mix of wins and losses. The 2nds have fewer wins, but the 3rds, with a mixed gender, youthful side out each week, are showing real signs of good progress.
At youth level, the U15 Boys are through to the South Gloucestershire final of the National Cup, and both the U13 and U15 girls have made progress in their Lady Taverners National competitions. Progress in all the various Leagues and other cup competitions that the youth teams play in is pretty mixed, but the great thing is that there are now well over 200 young people enjoying cricket at the club, with almost half of them girls.
The Falcons disability group on a Monday continues to grow, and has featured on Geoff Twentyman’s Radio Bristol sports programme. And the women’s softball on a Thursday evening has proved pretty popular, although the weather hasn’t been the best of friends at times!
As we always do, the club has hosted regular Kwik Cricket competitions for primary schools, and this year, we also hosted a SEN primary schools competition, and it is great to see the large sports ground filled with children having fun.
Off the field, we are now close to submitting a planning application to South Gloucestershire Council for our long awaited and very badly needed new pavilion. Still some way to for the project to materialise, but good signs of support and action.
June 2019
A big thank you to all the Frenchay residents who took the opportunity of visiting the seven participating local sports clubs and organisations during the Frenchay Sport Joint Open Day on Sunday 14th April. There was a particularly biting east wind, but it stayed dry and the sun did peep through occasionally.
The 2K Fun Run organised by Just Jog Women’s Runners around the cricket ground started the event. The visitors then had the chance of taking part in six sports at Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club, Frenchay Cricket Club, Bristol Golf Centre, Dings Crusaders Rugby Club, Rockleaze Rangers Football Club, Gary Cycles. Frenchay Tennis Club were unable to host any visitors this year as their newly constructed courts on the Redrow site were not finished. The clubs have now agreed that this should be an annual event and looking ahead, have provisionally identified Sunday 10th May 2020.
The cricket season has started well, with all the pre-season senior friendlies played, and the league competitions for the senior teams all now well under way. The ever popular youth Friday nights have been in full swing with the various squads covering the ground with children and parents enjoying the hospitality offers in the clubhouse. All the youth teams have matches under their belts, and the U11 girls have taken part in two festivals.
Frenchay Women’s Softball on a Thursday evening has proved popular. The All Stars group for 5 – 8 yr olds has started on a Sunday morning, and the Frenchay Falcons Disability group meets every Monday evening, particularly aimed at those with learning difficulties.
This month, the club will be hosting several Gloucestershire Cricket Board Kwik Cricket tournaments for local primary schools, plus the Cricket School Games competition, also for primary schools, organised by Wesport.
A big thank you to all the Frenchay residents who took the opportunity of visiting the seven participating local sports clubs and organisations during the Frenchay Sport Joint Open Day on Sunday 14th April. There was a particularly biting east wind, but it stayed dry and the sun did peep through occasionally.
The 2K Fun Run organised by Just Jog Women’s Runners around the cricket ground started the event. The visitors then had the chance of taking part in six sports at Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club, Frenchay Cricket Club, Bristol Golf Centre, Dings Crusaders Rugby Club, Rockleaze Rangers Football Club, Gary Cycles. Frenchay Tennis Club were unable to host any visitors this year as their newly constructed courts on the Redrow site were not finished. The clubs have now agreed that this should be an annual event and looking ahead, have provisionally identified Sunday 10th May 2020.
The cricket season has started well, with all the pre-season senior friendlies played, and the league competitions for the senior teams all now well under way. The ever popular youth Friday nights have been in full swing with the various squads covering the ground with children and parents enjoying the hospitality offers in the clubhouse. All the youth teams have matches under their belts, and the U11 girls have taken part in two festivals.
Frenchay Women’s Softball on a Thursday evening has proved popular. The All Stars group for 5 – 8 yr olds has started on a Sunday morning, and the Frenchay Falcons Disability group meets every Monday evening, particularly aimed at those with learning difficulties.
This month, the club will be hosting several Gloucestershire Cricket Board Kwik Cricket tournaments for local primary schools, plus the Cricket School Games competition, also for primary schools, organised by Wesport.
May 2019
Another full season is here, and we hope for a good spell of weather, and to achieve a third consecutive full house of senior league matches completed with no rain casualties!
The grounds team have been busy preparing the wickets, squares and outfields for all the activities, and the weather has been kind in assisting with this process. I hope that the Frenchay Joint Sport Open Day on 14th April was successful for all concerned, and we will report next month.
The senior sides have all started with friendly matches, and are set to start the League season this week. The 1st Xl have regained West of England Premier League status, and will be playing in the Bristol and North Somerset Division, including the local derbies with near neighbours Stapleton.
The 2nd Xl continue in Division 4 of the Bristol and District League, and the 3rd Xl will continue to help our many young players to develop their cricketing experiences. The youth teams have all started now, with Friday evenings being as busy as ever.
In addition, the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group, particularly aimed at those with learning difficulties (11 years and above), meet every Monday (6.30 -7.30). Women’s Softball continues on a Thursday evening (6.30 – 7.30).
Notable Dates for May: -
Another full season is here, and we hope for a good spell of weather, and to achieve a third consecutive full house of senior league matches completed with no rain casualties!
The grounds team have been busy preparing the wickets, squares and outfields for all the activities, and the weather has been kind in assisting with this process. I hope that the Frenchay Joint Sport Open Day on 14th April was successful for all concerned, and we will report next month.
The senior sides have all started with friendly matches, and are set to start the League season this week. The 1st Xl have regained West of England Premier League status, and will be playing in the Bristol and North Somerset Division, including the local derbies with near neighbours Stapleton.
The 2nd Xl continue in Division 4 of the Bristol and District League, and the 3rd Xl will continue to help our many young players to develop their cricketing experiences. The youth teams have all started now, with Friday evenings being as busy as ever.
In addition, the Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Group, particularly aimed at those with learning difficulties (11 years and above), meet every Monday (6.30 -7.30). Women’s Softball continues on a Thursday evening (6.30 – 7.30).
Notable Dates for May: -
- Thursday 9th May (10.00 – 2.00) – Special Educational Needs Senior Schools Cricket Day in conjunction with the Gloucestershire Cricket Board and Access Sport
- Sunday 12th May (10.00 – 12.30) – Frenchay U9 and U11 Girls Festival for Gloucestershire Clubs
- Sunday 19th May – West of England Premier League’ T/20 ‘Local Round’ involving Frenchay, Downend and Bristol West Indians Phoenix (all day)
April 2019
Hard to believe it is now the start of the 2019 season with senior friendlies and some youth league and KO cup matches starting soon. Full details can be found on https://frenchay.play-cricket.com/
However, there is a lot of hard work to get the cricket ground ready for the many matches ahead, starting on 6th/7th April with NatWest Cricket Force Weekend, when we hope to see many volunteers busy with all sorts of jobs.
We then follow up taking a full part in the Frenchay Sport Family Open Day on Sunday 14th April. There will be taster cricket sessions from 11.00 through to 4.00, and we are also pleased to be hosting the fun run (reporting 10.00) organised by Frenchay Runners.
The indoor season has finished now, with the older U12 ‘Blue’ girls winning the Gloucestershire Girls Indoor League with a full house 6 wins. As this is written, the U14 ‘Flames’ girls are leading the DFCA BYCL Indoor League with 6 from 7 wins in their debut season. They then faced the play off matches to decide the league winners. However, whether the ‘Flames’ carried on to win the league, they and the ‘Blues’ have enjoyed the experience of playing indoors, and definitely benefited from the challenges provided.
Indoor net practice for all groups will be drawing to a close, and the youth teams will be starting training outdoors mostly on Friday evening just before Easter, with the seniors on Wednesday evenings.
The Falcons Disability Cricket Group concentrating on providing opportunities for those with learning difficulties, will be starting outdoors every Monday evening (6.30 – 7.30) from 29th April.
Children of 5 – 8 years can sign on for ‘All Stars Cricket’ through this link https://ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/Course/3c8c5f98-12ac-41e1-90d7-ebe1ab4561f2
Hard to believe it is now the start of the 2019 season with senior friendlies and some youth league and KO cup matches starting soon. Full details can be found on https://frenchay.play-cricket.com/
However, there is a lot of hard work to get the cricket ground ready for the many matches ahead, starting on 6th/7th April with NatWest Cricket Force Weekend, when we hope to see many volunteers busy with all sorts of jobs.
We then follow up taking a full part in the Frenchay Sport Family Open Day on Sunday 14th April. There will be taster cricket sessions from 11.00 through to 4.00, and we are also pleased to be hosting the fun run (reporting 10.00) organised by Frenchay Runners.
The indoor season has finished now, with the older U12 ‘Blue’ girls winning the Gloucestershire Girls Indoor League with a full house 6 wins. As this is written, the U14 ‘Flames’ girls are leading the DFCA BYCL Indoor League with 6 from 7 wins in their debut season. They then faced the play off matches to decide the league winners. However, whether the ‘Flames’ carried on to win the league, they and the ‘Blues’ have enjoyed the experience of playing indoors, and definitely benefited from the challenges provided.
Indoor net practice for all groups will be drawing to a close, and the youth teams will be starting training outdoors mostly on Friday evening just before Easter, with the seniors on Wednesday evenings.
The Falcons Disability Cricket Group concentrating on providing opportunities for those with learning difficulties, will be starting outdoors every Monday evening (6.30 – 7.30) from 29th April.
Children of 5 – 8 years can sign on for ‘All Stars Cricket’ through this link https://ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/Course/3c8c5f98-12ac-41e1-90d7-ebe1ab4561f2
March 2019
Well, the outdoor season is now fast approaching. All the senior teams and the many youth teams are studying their respective fixture lists, and the summer is certainly going to be a really busy time at the Bob Stone Ground.
The youth teams generally begin their fixtures later in April, with some league matches and the U13s and U15s setting off in the South Glos qualifying rounds of the ECB National Clubs KO Cup competitions. While senior League matches don’t start until May, there are a series of friendlies organised in April to get the cobwebs out of the system. All fixtures can be found through www.Frenchay.play-cricket.com
Meanwhile, the range of indoor training sessions throughout the club have been progressing well. More details of these seniors: [email protected] and youth: [email protected]
The three indoor league competitions have been progressing well. At Castle School, Thornbury, the older U12 girls, Blues, are currently unbeaten with two matches to play, while the younger, Reds, are gaining very useful experience as most of them can play in this competition for another two years.
At the Brightside Ground, the U14 Flames girls are turning some heads with their performances, while the less experienced U12 boys are gaining valuable knowledge in a tough environment. In addition, the Falcons Disability Group continues to meet Sundays (1.00 – 2.00) at Shaftesbury Park.
Off the field, the senior players are organising a Frenchay sponsored walk on Saturday 23rd March. Aimed at raising funds for the new pavilion, the walk will take in the Frome Valley and up around Duchess Park.
The 'get the ground ready for the season' day (NatWest Cricket Force) will take place on Saturday 6th April.
Well, the outdoor season is now fast approaching. All the senior teams and the many youth teams are studying their respective fixture lists, and the summer is certainly going to be a really busy time at the Bob Stone Ground.
The youth teams generally begin their fixtures later in April, with some league matches and the U13s and U15s setting off in the South Glos qualifying rounds of the ECB National Clubs KO Cup competitions. While senior League matches don’t start until May, there are a series of friendlies organised in April to get the cobwebs out of the system. All fixtures can be found through www.Frenchay.play-cricket.com
Meanwhile, the range of indoor training sessions throughout the club have been progressing well. More details of these seniors: [email protected] and youth: [email protected]
The three indoor league competitions have been progressing well. At Castle School, Thornbury, the older U12 girls, Blues, are currently unbeaten with two matches to play, while the younger, Reds, are gaining very useful experience as most of them can play in this competition for another two years.
At the Brightside Ground, the U14 Flames girls are turning some heads with their performances, while the less experienced U12 boys are gaining valuable knowledge in a tough environment. In addition, the Falcons Disability Group continues to meet Sundays (1.00 – 2.00) at Shaftesbury Park.
Off the field, the senior players are organising a Frenchay sponsored walk on Saturday 23rd March. Aimed at raising funds for the new pavilion, the walk will take in the Frome Valley and up around Duchess Park.
The 'get the ground ready for the season' day (NatWest Cricket Force) will take place on Saturday 6th April.
February 2019
Although we are several months away from the start of the outdoor season, there is lots going on with cricket. The ground is looking good, thanks to the hard work and commitment of the many volunteer grounds team. The new drainage system is paying dividends, with the surface firmer than it has ever been even after a great deal of rain.
Looking towards the new season, the seniors are involved in winter training every Thursday evening (8.30 – 9.30) at the Sports Hall, Winterbourne Academy through until mid April. Contact: [email protected].
The various youth teams are also starting Indoor training soon, details from [email protected]. At the same time, all of our 27 young players involved in Gloucestershire Winter County Age Group Squads are now busily engaged with their individual challenges.
There is also indoor match activity going on, with the U12 Girls (x2), the U12 Boys and the U14 Girls teams all being involved in the excitement of indoor leagues. The U12 Girls have two teams involved in the Glos Girls League at Castle School, on Sunday afternoons for the first time, showing the increasing strength in depth. They are playing six matches against other girls teams from across Gloucestershire. The Blues are the older, generally more experienced team and the Reds are the younger squad. At the same time, the U12 Boys and the U14 Flames Girls are taking part in the BYCL/DFCA Indoor League at the Brightside Ground on a Saturday afternoon, involving eight teams over three months. Both competitions are good fun and really helpful experience looking ahead towards the approaching season.
Although we are several months away from the start of the outdoor season, there is lots going on with cricket. The ground is looking good, thanks to the hard work and commitment of the many volunteer grounds team. The new drainage system is paying dividends, with the surface firmer than it has ever been even after a great deal of rain.
Looking towards the new season, the seniors are involved in winter training every Thursday evening (8.30 – 9.30) at the Sports Hall, Winterbourne Academy through until mid April. Contact: [email protected].
The various youth teams are also starting Indoor training soon, details from [email protected]. At the same time, all of our 27 young players involved in Gloucestershire Winter County Age Group Squads are now busily engaged with their individual challenges.
There is also indoor match activity going on, with the U12 Girls (x2), the U12 Boys and the U14 Girls teams all being involved in the excitement of indoor leagues. The U12 Girls have two teams involved in the Glos Girls League at Castle School, on Sunday afternoons for the first time, showing the increasing strength in depth. They are playing six matches against other girls teams from across Gloucestershire. The Blues are the older, generally more experienced team and the Reds are the younger squad. At the same time, the U12 Boys and the U14 Flames Girls are taking part in the BYCL/DFCA Indoor League at the Brightside Ground on a Saturday afternoon, involving eight teams over three months. Both competitions are good fun and really helpful experience looking ahead towards the approaching season.
January 2019
A very happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year to all readers of Frenchay News. We are looking forward to a really busy year ahead at the Bob Stone Ground, and there is lots of news and activities to report.
Pride of place goes to Natasha Wraith (pictured below), who has been named as a member of the ‘Winter Training Group’ attached to the England Women’s National Cricket Academy. This is a wonderful achievement, and recognition of the progress, ability and commitment of this 17 year old wicketkeeper/batsman, formerly of Winterbourne Academy, now a student at SGS College. Nat joined Frenchay girls as an 8 year old, and since then has consistently stretched (and peppered!) the boundaries with her progress through the Frenchay teams and Gloucestershire County Age Group sides. More recently she was a member of Western Storm Development. She has been Gloucestershire Senior Women’s wicketkeeper for the past two seasons.
We look forward to seeing Nat meet the challenges that this level of cricket will provide.
A very happy, peaceful and prosperous New Year to all readers of Frenchay News. We are looking forward to a really busy year ahead at the Bob Stone Ground, and there is lots of news and activities to report.
Pride of place goes to Natasha Wraith (pictured below), who has been named as a member of the ‘Winter Training Group’ attached to the England Women’s National Cricket Academy. This is a wonderful achievement, and recognition of the progress, ability and commitment of this 17 year old wicketkeeper/batsman, formerly of Winterbourne Academy, now a student at SGS College. Nat joined Frenchay girls as an 8 year old, and since then has consistently stretched (and peppered!) the boundaries with her progress through the Frenchay teams and Gloucestershire County Age Group sides. More recently she was a member of Western Storm Development. She has been Gloucestershire Senior Women’s wicketkeeper for the past two seasons.
We look forward to seeing Nat meet the challenges that this level of cricket will provide.
©Matt Hunkin
Looking towards the new season, the seniors begin winter training every Thursday evening (8.30 – 9.30) at the Sports Hall, Winterbourne Academy, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne , starting on 17th January through until April. Contact: [email protected].
The various youth teams are starting Indoor training soon, details from [email protected]. At the same time, all of our 27 young players involved in Gloucestershire Winter County Age Group Squads will also be setting off on their individual challenges.
There is also ‘Indoor Match’ activity coming up, with the U12 Girls (x2), the U12 Boys and the U14 Girls teams all being involved in the excitement of indoor leagues over the next few months, with the ‘12s’ and separately the latter two each facing one another!
The various youth teams are starting Indoor training soon, details from [email protected]. At the same time, all of our 27 young players involved in Gloucestershire Winter County Age Group Squads will also be setting off on their individual challenges.
There is also ‘Indoor Match’ activity coming up, with the U12 Girls (x2), the U12 Boys and the U14 Girls teams all being involved in the excitement of indoor leagues over the next few months, with the ‘12s’ and separately the latter two each facing one another!
December 2018
Members of the Cricket Club wish all readers of Frenchay News, a very Happy Christmas, and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
It is difficult to believe that we are approaching 2019 already! It seems like the cricket season only finished a few weeks ago, and yet, when the days start to draw out in the New Year, the new season is soon upon us.
Following on from the various awards mentioned in the two recent editions, another batch came the way of the club more recently at the Gloucestershire Women and Girls celebration evening at the Brightside Ground. The Under 13 ‘Heat’ Girls picked up the U13 South League title, while the U15 ‘Flames’ Girls achieved a clean sweep at their age group, winning both the Indoor Blast and the Outdoor Blast Competitions.
Pictured below is the successful Outdoor Blast Flames Squad, which includes six girls who started their cricket some years ago at our linked local primary schools. The squad is flanked in the photograph by Western Storm players Sophie Luff (left) and Fran Wilson, who is an England International.
The Under 12 Boys have been gaining valuable experience taking part in the very competitive Indoor League on Saturdays at the Brightside Ground, and the U12 Girls will be preparing for their Indoor League competition which starts in January.
Indoor practice sessions for the seniors and various youth squads will be starting in January/February, and details can be obtained through the contacts above.
Members of the Cricket Club wish all readers of Frenchay News, a very Happy Christmas, and a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
It is difficult to believe that we are approaching 2019 already! It seems like the cricket season only finished a few weeks ago, and yet, when the days start to draw out in the New Year, the new season is soon upon us.
Following on from the various awards mentioned in the two recent editions, another batch came the way of the club more recently at the Gloucestershire Women and Girls celebration evening at the Brightside Ground. The Under 13 ‘Heat’ Girls picked up the U13 South League title, while the U15 ‘Flames’ Girls achieved a clean sweep at their age group, winning both the Indoor Blast and the Outdoor Blast Competitions.
Pictured below is the successful Outdoor Blast Flames Squad, which includes six girls who started their cricket some years ago at our linked local primary schools. The squad is flanked in the photograph by Western Storm players Sophie Luff (left) and Fran Wilson, who is an England International.
The Under 12 Boys have been gaining valuable experience taking part in the very competitive Indoor League on Saturdays at the Brightside Ground, and the U12 Girls will be preparing for their Indoor League competition which starts in January.
Indoor practice sessions for the seniors and various youth squads will be starting in January/February, and details can be obtained through the contacts above.
November 2018
A host of presentation events have taken place starting with the Annual Club Dinner held at the Kendleshire Golf Club.
The ‘Cricketer of the Year’ went to Ben Stoddart, who also picked up the ‘Hickers’ Players Player' Award. Sonny Reynolds was named ‘Young Cricketer of the Year’, and the ‘Christine and Ian Golding Merit’ Award went to Sally Woodsford. Tom Bibby and Ben Stoddart shared the ‘Phil Pascall Performance of the Year’ Award for 129 not out and 7 for 28 respectively. Max Evans won the 2nd Xl Player of the Year, and young Danny Thorne was awarded 3rd Xl Player of the Year. Tom Bibby and Dave Busby collected Tankards for scoring centuries.
At the recent Gloucestershire Cricket Board County Performance Awards, Izzy Carey received the U15 Performance of the Year. Izzy Patel received the U13 Player of the Year, and Ellie Donaldson the U11 Performance of the Year.
During recent Youth Presentation evenings at the club, Izzy Patel was named ‘Junior Player of the Year’, and Amy Patterson received the ‘Junior Clubperson Award’.
Girls Awards
U17 ‘Fire’: Best Batter – Natasha Wraith, Best Bowler – Helen Cutler, Best All Rounder – Maisie Hunkin
U15 ‘Flames’: Best Batter – Izzy Carey, Best Bowler – Lily Knox, Managers Award – Natasha Pinder
U13 ‘Heat’: Best Batter – Izzy Patel, Best Bowler – Izzy Richards, Coaches Award – Charis Oram
U11 Firebirds: Spirit of Cricket Award – Eleri Walsh, Commitment to the Team Award – Nishi Vinjamuri, Most committed Player – Petra Sarpong
Boys Awards
U15s: Best Batter – Joe Moss, Best Bowler – Sam Taylor, Managers Player – Sonny Reynolds
U13’A’s: Best Batter - Tim Dobinson, Best Bowler – Adam Sutton, Coaches Award – Reggie Rodway
U13’B’s: Best Batter – Harry Hussey, Best Bowler – Lewis Moss, Most Improved Player – Kashyap Karthik
U11s: Best Batter – George Gibbs, Best Bowler – Sam Green, Best All Rounder – Jayden Sutton, Champagne moment – Ellis Lovell
A host of presentation events have taken place starting with the Annual Club Dinner held at the Kendleshire Golf Club.
The ‘Cricketer of the Year’ went to Ben Stoddart, who also picked up the ‘Hickers’ Players Player' Award. Sonny Reynolds was named ‘Young Cricketer of the Year’, and the ‘Christine and Ian Golding Merit’ Award went to Sally Woodsford. Tom Bibby and Ben Stoddart shared the ‘Phil Pascall Performance of the Year’ Award for 129 not out and 7 for 28 respectively. Max Evans won the 2nd Xl Player of the Year, and young Danny Thorne was awarded 3rd Xl Player of the Year. Tom Bibby and Dave Busby collected Tankards for scoring centuries.
At the recent Gloucestershire Cricket Board County Performance Awards, Izzy Carey received the U15 Performance of the Year. Izzy Patel received the U13 Player of the Year, and Ellie Donaldson the U11 Performance of the Year.
During recent Youth Presentation evenings at the club, Izzy Patel was named ‘Junior Player of the Year’, and Amy Patterson received the ‘Junior Clubperson Award’.
Girls Awards
U17 ‘Fire’: Best Batter – Natasha Wraith, Best Bowler – Helen Cutler, Best All Rounder – Maisie Hunkin
U15 ‘Flames’: Best Batter – Izzy Carey, Best Bowler – Lily Knox, Managers Award – Natasha Pinder
U13 ‘Heat’: Best Batter – Izzy Patel, Best Bowler – Izzy Richards, Coaches Award – Charis Oram
U11 Firebirds: Spirit of Cricket Award – Eleri Walsh, Commitment to the Team Award – Nishi Vinjamuri, Most committed Player – Petra Sarpong
Boys Awards
U15s: Best Batter – Joe Moss, Best Bowler – Sam Taylor, Managers Player – Sonny Reynolds
U13’A’s: Best Batter - Tim Dobinson, Best Bowler – Adam Sutton, Coaches Award – Reggie Rodway
U13’B’s: Best Batter – Harry Hussey, Best Bowler – Lewis Moss, Most Improved Player – Kashyap Karthik
U11s: Best Batter – George Gibbs, Best Bowler – Sam Green, Best All Rounder – Jayden Sutton, Champagne moment – Ellis Lovell
October 2018
Frenchay are Bristol and District League Champions 2018
The 1st Xl concluded their super season, successfully winning their last match (pictured below), to become Bristol and District League Champions for 2018. Winning 13 out of 18 matches played, the team is promoted back into the West of England Premier League, where we will renew the exciting prospect of the ‘local Derbies’ with Stapleton.
At the same time, the 2nd Xl secured their place in Division 4 with a solid performance in their final match. Unfortunately the 3rd Xl didn’t fare so well, and have finished at the foot of their Division, but nevertheless have seen a number of young players ‘blooded’ into Senior cricket across the season.
After the excellent, hot summer, and the recent rain, the drainage improvement works are beginning to settle down with the new grass growing well. The past season was always going to be a challenge with the extent of the groundworks involved. And so it proved, more so with the wettest spring in 30 years followed by the driest summer for 40 years! But now there are great signs that the scheme will provide immense improvements to the quality of the playing area for sports in the years ahead.
Frenchay are Bristol and District League Champions 2018
The 1st Xl concluded their super season, successfully winning their last match (pictured below), to become Bristol and District League Champions for 2018. Winning 13 out of 18 matches played, the team is promoted back into the West of England Premier League, where we will renew the exciting prospect of the ‘local Derbies’ with Stapleton.
At the same time, the 2nd Xl secured their place in Division 4 with a solid performance in their final match. Unfortunately the 3rd Xl didn’t fare so well, and have finished at the foot of their Division, but nevertheless have seen a number of young players ‘blooded’ into Senior cricket across the season.
After the excellent, hot summer, and the recent rain, the drainage improvement works are beginning to settle down with the new grass growing well. The past season was always going to be a challenge with the extent of the groundworks involved. And so it proved, more so with the wettest spring in 30 years followed by the driest summer for 40 years! But now there are great signs that the scheme will provide immense improvements to the quality of the playing area for sports in the years ahead.
An Opportunity for Disabled Teenagers
Do you know of any disabled teenagers who might benefit from the opportunity to get involved in sport locally? Frenchay Falcons are starting a ten week programme of cricket for disabled teenagers on Sunday 7th October in the Sports Hall at the Dings RFC Shaftesbury Park Ground, Frenchay Park Road.
Sessions are every Sunday 1.00 and 2.00pm through to 9th December, and run by qualified and DBS Certified Coaches. The first session attended is free, and thereafter cost is £1.00 per session. More information [email protected]
Do you know of any disabled teenagers who might benefit from the opportunity to get involved in sport locally? Frenchay Falcons are starting a ten week programme of cricket for disabled teenagers on Sunday 7th October in the Sports Hall at the Dings RFC Shaftesbury Park Ground, Frenchay Park Road.
Sessions are every Sunday 1.00 and 2.00pm through to 9th December, and run by qualified and DBS Certified Coaches. The first session attended is free, and thereafter cost is £1.00 per session. More information [email protected]
September 2018
Well, the sunny, hot weather continued through August, and what a welcome impact on the cricket season! More matches played, more people smiling, more activities on the field and in the clubhouse. Fingers crossed that these conditions continue until September.
On the field, the 1st Xl have continued their good run, currently leading the Bristol and District Senior Division, having put in some really good performances against competent opponents. There are still a number of matches to go before the season concludes, and everyone will need to continue to be up for the challenge to maintain the momentum.
The 2nd Xl have continued their ‘in and out’ season, including an exciting tie, while the 3rd Xl have given more young players their on-going development opportunities.
At youth level, Frenchay ‘Heat’ U13 Girls, pictured below, made history by winning the Dave McCarthy U11 KO Cup, defeating Bristol YMCA at Frampton Cotterell. They are the first girls team to win a DFCA Bristol Youth League competition in the 47 year history of the league. On the day, the side included six girls who have come through our highly successful ChanceToShine coaching programme, which is run annually in local primary schools. The ‘Heat’ then went on to win their league section, but lost out in the championship semi final to a very competent Winterbourne side.
Well, the sunny, hot weather continued through August, and what a welcome impact on the cricket season! More matches played, more people smiling, more activities on the field and in the clubhouse. Fingers crossed that these conditions continue until September.
On the field, the 1st Xl have continued their good run, currently leading the Bristol and District Senior Division, having put in some really good performances against competent opponents. There are still a number of matches to go before the season concludes, and everyone will need to continue to be up for the challenge to maintain the momentum.
The 2nd Xl have continued their ‘in and out’ season, including an exciting tie, while the 3rd Xl have given more young players their on-going development opportunities.
At youth level, Frenchay ‘Heat’ U13 Girls, pictured below, made history by winning the Dave McCarthy U11 KO Cup, defeating Bristol YMCA at Frampton Cotterell. They are the first girls team to win a DFCA Bristol Youth League competition in the 47 year history of the league. On the day, the side included six girls who have come through our highly successful ChanceToShine coaching programme, which is run annually in local primary schools. The ‘Heat’ then went on to win their league section, but lost out in the championship semi final to a very competent Winterbourne side.
In early August, around 75 youth members from the U9s to the U17s took part in the highly successful youth day, where the age groups are mixed up, and a six a side competition takes place, finishing in a final, this year won by the ‘Sri Lankan’ Team. The weather was super, and there were lots of smiles and good entertainment through the day.
August 2018
Well, the weather could not have been more positive towards playing matches these past weeks. Unrelenting sun has produced lots of cricket and people have generally seemed very content, being outside, having a quiet drink, seeking the cool of the Clubhouse for some respite, and generally enjoying the time.
On the pitch, the 1st Xl didn’t perform as expected, losing the B&D KO Cup Semi Final by a very narrow margin. However, they currently top the senior division with 10 matches played. Still a long way to go, and with a chasing posse of clubs, a lot of work to put in. The 2nd Xl have continued their mixed season, and the 3rd Xl, often with a number of young players, have recorded their first success.
At youth level, all the Tteams are competing well with mixed success. As this is written, the U11 Boys are approaching a cup semi final, the U13 ‘Heat’ girls have reached the final of the Dave McCarthy KO cup, and the U15 boys are challenging for their section lead. On the wider field, a lot of the youth players have distinguished themselves representing Gloucestershire at various age groups this season. Pride of place however should go to the six older Frenchay girls who have now played for the Glos senior wmen’s team.
Off the field, the drainage contractors have returned during the extremely dry weather, to reinstate the levels of the ‘criss-cross’ drainage trenches on the main pitch outfield. This was work that had to be postponed because of the extremely wet conditions in the spring. How times have changed!
Dates for the Diary
Sunday 5th August – Youth Day (10.00 – 3.00)
Sunday 12th August – DFCA Bristol Youth Cricket League Championship Finals Day
Well, the weather could not have been more positive towards playing matches these past weeks. Unrelenting sun has produced lots of cricket and people have generally seemed very content, being outside, having a quiet drink, seeking the cool of the Clubhouse for some respite, and generally enjoying the time.
On the pitch, the 1st Xl didn’t perform as expected, losing the B&D KO Cup Semi Final by a very narrow margin. However, they currently top the senior division with 10 matches played. Still a long way to go, and with a chasing posse of clubs, a lot of work to put in. The 2nd Xl have continued their mixed season, and the 3rd Xl, often with a number of young players, have recorded their first success.
At youth level, all the Tteams are competing well with mixed success. As this is written, the U11 Boys are approaching a cup semi final, the U13 ‘Heat’ girls have reached the final of the Dave McCarthy KO cup, and the U15 boys are challenging for their section lead. On the wider field, a lot of the youth players have distinguished themselves representing Gloucestershire at various age groups this season. Pride of place however should go to the six older Frenchay girls who have now played for the Glos senior wmen’s team.
Off the field, the drainage contractors have returned during the extremely dry weather, to reinstate the levels of the ‘criss-cross’ drainage trenches on the main pitch outfield. This was work that had to be postponed because of the extremely wet conditions in the spring. How times have changed!
Dates for the Diary
Sunday 5th August – Youth Day (10.00 – 3.00)
Sunday 12th August – DFCA Bristol Youth Cricket League Championship Finals Day
July 2018
Well, the sun has been shining intermittently and the weather has been fairly good for cricket so far. Up to the moment, the 1st Xl have secured some good wins in the league and progressed in the Knock Out Cup competition. The 2nd Xl have had a mixed season so far, and the 3rd Xl have now achieved their first win, with some very promising performances from the younger players.
At youth level, the children taking part in All Stars on a Sunday morning make it a really busy and noisy place. The under 9s are progressing well and will improve further now that Keanan Mitchell is here to support their on-going development. Keanen is over with us for the season from Cape Town, South Africa, playing cricket and getting involved in aspects of the coaching and development of our young players.
Beyond the U9s, all the youth teams are performing well and the young players are gaining experience as the season progresses. It is also good to mention that more volunteers have come forward to support the coaching of the many groups involved at the club. This is so important to secure a sustainable future.
Off the pitch, the volunteer groundstaff have been busy as usual keeping the ground spick and span for the teams. A group of people are also busy putting together our application to renew our ECB clubmark accreditation. This is a really important focus of recognising the wider role of the club, how it is performing, and how we particularly look after the young people involved with cricket at the Bob Stone Ground.
Well, the sun has been shining intermittently and the weather has been fairly good for cricket so far. Up to the moment, the 1st Xl have secured some good wins in the league and progressed in the Knock Out Cup competition. The 2nd Xl have had a mixed season so far, and the 3rd Xl have now achieved their first win, with some very promising performances from the younger players.
At youth level, the children taking part in All Stars on a Sunday morning make it a really busy and noisy place. The under 9s are progressing well and will improve further now that Keanan Mitchell is here to support their on-going development. Keanen is over with us for the season from Cape Town, South Africa, playing cricket and getting involved in aspects of the coaching and development of our young players.
Beyond the U9s, all the youth teams are performing well and the young players are gaining experience as the season progresses. It is also good to mention that more volunteers have come forward to support the coaching of the many groups involved at the club. This is so important to secure a sustainable future.
Off the pitch, the volunteer groundstaff have been busy as usual keeping the ground spick and span for the teams. A group of people are also busy putting together our application to renew our ECB clubmark accreditation. This is a really important focus of recognising the wider role of the club, how it is performing, and how we particularly look after the young people involved with cricket at the Bob Stone Ground.
CONGRATULATIONS TO
JIM DONALDSON
who was made a BEM in the Queen’s birthday honours list for his services to youth cricket.
JIM DONALDSON
who was made a BEM in the Queen’s birthday honours list for his services to youth cricket.
June 2018
The season is now well under way, with the senior teams moving forward involving plenty of young players who have come up through the youth system. The youth teams have also played quite a few matches and the Play Cricket website has all the fixtures and results.
Coaching through the ChanceToShine Programme has been taking place on Frenchay Common on Wednesday afternoons with Frenchay Primary School. The coach is a young player, Claudia Dark, who came up through the Frenchay youth system, and she is being aided with the after school club by ex-Student Georgie Hunt, first girl from the school to play cricket for Gloucestershire and who recently toured Sri Lanka.
Four Frenchay girls (aged 16 & 17) have recently made their debut for the Gloucestershire County Women’s Senior Team in the National County Competitions.
The All Stars programme for 5 year olds is busy on a Sunday morning at the club, and we look forward to these youngsters making progress up through the age groups. This is an excellent initiative spearheaded by the ECB, and it will be leading to changes in the formats for cricket provided for 8 – 11 year olds in 2019. The idea being to engage more young people more actively in each match by reducing the numbers of players involved, getting those playing doing more, and reducing the length of the pitches used.
Bringing forward changes in the established local formats for these age groups will no doubt‘ruffle a few feather’ along the way, but the logic of ‘more players, playing more cricket, more often’ is difficult to challenge.
May 2018
As I am writing this it is wet, so we are hoping that the weather pattern will have changed now we are into the new season.
The league season for the senior teams will shortly start, so we are looking to build on last year. The youth teams, having had a series of sessions indoors, started outside back in April and the vibrant Friday youth nights have so far been buzzing with activity, chatter and laughter. All visitors are now potentially more comfortable, with the improved toilet facilities in place following the ECB small grant.
The poor weather prevented the drainage contractors from undertaking the final reinstatement works on the improved outfield, so that is postponed until September. While this is a disappointment for surface conditions, there was always this risk depending entirely on the weather, but the improved drainage is working well, and this was always a longer term improvement project.
The club is very pleased that courtesy of grants for initiatives generously supported by Trevor Jones and Bob Pullin, our South Gloucestershire Councillors, a new drag mat for use by the groundstaff, a ‘throw down net’ used for training, and coaching courses for adults and youth players have been agreed. In addition, two new sightscreens have arrived for the top pitch, courtesy of a S106 Grant from South Gloucestershire Council. The club and D&F Tennis Club have also combined to install new lighting on the driveway to the clubhouse, which is a major improvement for all users.
All Stars Cricket for younger children - coming to Frenchay on a Sunday morning later in May, an ECB initiative aimed at introducing 5 – 8 yr olds to cricket. More information from https://www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars.
Frenchay Falcons for those with learning difficulties continues on a Monday evening outdoors and now with indoor table cricket.
As I am writing this it is wet, so we are hoping that the weather pattern will have changed now we are into the new season.
The league season for the senior teams will shortly start, so we are looking to build on last year. The youth teams, having had a series of sessions indoors, started outside back in April and the vibrant Friday youth nights have so far been buzzing with activity, chatter and laughter. All visitors are now potentially more comfortable, with the improved toilet facilities in place following the ECB small grant.
The poor weather prevented the drainage contractors from undertaking the final reinstatement works on the improved outfield, so that is postponed until September. While this is a disappointment for surface conditions, there was always this risk depending entirely on the weather, but the improved drainage is working well, and this was always a longer term improvement project.
The club is very pleased that courtesy of grants for initiatives generously supported by Trevor Jones and Bob Pullin, our South Gloucestershire Councillors, a new drag mat for use by the groundstaff, a ‘throw down net’ used for training, and coaching courses for adults and youth players have been agreed. In addition, two new sightscreens have arrived for the top pitch, courtesy of a S106 Grant from South Gloucestershire Council. The club and D&F Tennis Club have also combined to install new lighting on the driveway to the clubhouse, which is a major improvement for all users.
All Stars Cricket for younger children - coming to Frenchay on a Sunday morning later in May, an ECB initiative aimed at introducing 5 – 8 yr olds to cricket. More information from https://www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars.
Frenchay Falcons for those with learning difficulties continues on a Monday evening outdoors and now with indoor table cricket.
April 2018
The outdoor season will be starting quite soon with youth matches scheduled later in the month and senior friendlies. The contractors are due back around now to assess the impact of the drainage improvement works, and particularly to look at the finished grass surfaces to see if any further reinstatement is required where so many trenches were created to establish the better drainage.
Excellent news just through that the club has been successful in receiving an English Cricket Board (ECB) small grant. This is going to be used to upgrade the ladies and gents toilets in the clubhouse, noting that all the improved facilities to be provided are designed to be transferable to the new pavilion when that is constructed. The improvements will also include some new benches for the ground, and is based on improving family friendly facilities as part of the ECB's All Stars programme.
The six girls plus parent supporters from Frenchay who toured Sri Lanka with Gloucestershire U17 Girls in February had a wonderful time (in the sun!!). What a truly marvellous experience. The outstanding story in amongst this is that two of the girls are direct products of our coaching work through the Chance To Shine campaign in local primary schools. Six years ago, two nine year olds, Georgie Hunt at Frenchay C of E Primary and Molly Bliss at Bromley Heath Juniors, enjoyed the opportunity to get involved in cricket at school. They joined Frenchay, progressed through Frenchay and Gloucestershire age groups, and have both now also played senior cricket at the club. Who would have believed six years ago that they would be travelling 5000 miles to play cricket?
The outdoor season will be starting quite soon with youth matches scheduled later in the month and senior friendlies. The contractors are due back around now to assess the impact of the drainage improvement works, and particularly to look at the finished grass surfaces to see if any further reinstatement is required where so many trenches were created to establish the better drainage.
Excellent news just through that the club has been successful in receiving an English Cricket Board (ECB) small grant. This is going to be used to upgrade the ladies and gents toilets in the clubhouse, noting that all the improved facilities to be provided are designed to be transferable to the new pavilion when that is constructed. The improvements will also include some new benches for the ground, and is based on improving family friendly facilities as part of the ECB's All Stars programme.
The six girls plus parent supporters from Frenchay who toured Sri Lanka with Gloucestershire U17 Girls in February had a wonderful time (in the sun!!). What a truly marvellous experience. The outstanding story in amongst this is that two of the girls are direct products of our coaching work through the Chance To Shine campaign in local primary schools. Six years ago, two nine year olds, Georgie Hunt at Frenchay C of E Primary and Molly Bliss at Bromley Heath Juniors, enjoyed the opportunity to get involved in cricket at school. They joined Frenchay, progressed through Frenchay and Gloucestershire age groups, and have both now also played senior cricket at the club. Who would have believed six years ago that they would be travelling 5000 miles to play cricket?
Pictured above are Georgie (left) and Molly, having just played at the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy, which has hosted test matches. They have also made national Chance To Shine news: https://www.chancetoshine.org/news/chance-to-shine-girls-tour-sri-lanka
March 2018
The evenings are drawing out and the cricket season approaches. Looking ahead, NatWest Cricket Force weekend takes place over 7th - 8th April. This ECB nationally promoted event, is when members prepare the club for the upcoming season. There are inside jobs: cleaning, tidying the dressing rooms, painting and outside ones: re-erecting the netting on the outdoor nets; getting the benches and picnic tables out;varnishing them and putting them around the ground; grass cutting; hedge trimming; sorting out coaching equipment for the various youth teams. A very necessary time taken to get the club ready.
Practice sessions are ongoing. Seniors are meeting every Thursday (8.30 – 9.30) at Winterbourne International Academy Sports Hall, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1JC. New Players are welcome. Enquiries to Alex Stell [email protected]. The many Youth Squads are training at various venues/times, details from [email protected]
The Club is extremely pleased to announce that the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket Group has received a grant from The Friends of Stoke Park Hospital Fund, which will enable us to continue our programme on Monday evenings during the summer working with those with learning difficulties. We are very grateful for this generous support, and anyone interested in being involved with the Falcons can contact Jim Donaldson (07771502274) for more information.
Frenchay will again be running All Stars Cricket for 6 – 8 yr olds, on Sunday mornings starting early May. Booking has to be via the ECB website at https://www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars/parents
We are also continuing to develop our preferred scheme with our retained architect for a new pavilion at the Bob Stone Ground. We have had several meetings aimed at refining the design and accommodation, so that we can promote a building that matches the needs of the club with the wider community.
The evenings are drawing out and the cricket season approaches. Looking ahead, NatWest Cricket Force weekend takes place over 7th - 8th April. This ECB nationally promoted event, is when members prepare the club for the upcoming season. There are inside jobs: cleaning, tidying the dressing rooms, painting and outside ones: re-erecting the netting on the outdoor nets; getting the benches and picnic tables out;varnishing them and putting them around the ground; grass cutting; hedge trimming; sorting out coaching equipment for the various youth teams. A very necessary time taken to get the club ready.
Practice sessions are ongoing. Seniors are meeting every Thursday (8.30 – 9.30) at Winterbourne International Academy Sports Hall, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1JC. New Players are welcome. Enquiries to Alex Stell [email protected]. The many Youth Squads are training at various venues/times, details from [email protected]
The Club is extremely pleased to announce that the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket Group has received a grant from The Friends of Stoke Park Hospital Fund, which will enable us to continue our programme on Monday evenings during the summer working with those with learning difficulties. We are very grateful for this generous support, and anyone interested in being involved with the Falcons can contact Jim Donaldson (07771502274) for more information.
Frenchay will again be running All Stars Cricket for 6 – 8 yr olds, on Sunday mornings starting early May. Booking has to be via the ECB website at https://www.ecb.co.uk/play/all-stars/parents
We are also continuing to develop our preferred scheme with our retained architect for a new pavilion at the Bob Stone Ground. We have had several meetings aimed at refining the design and accommodation, so that we can promote a building that matches the needs of the club with the wider community.
February 2018
As the evenings begin to draw out, it means that the outdoor cricket season is not too far away. All the senior fixtures have been published and the various youth fixtures are being sorted as this article goes to press. Meantime, the U13 Boys are involved in the DFCA BYCL Indoor League at the Brightside Ground on Saturday afternoons and the U12 Girls with the Glos Girls Indoor League at Castle School, Thornbury on Sunday afternoons.
In terms of practice sessions, the seniors are meeting every Thursday (8.30 – 9.30) at Winterbourne International Academy Sports Hall, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1JC. New players are welcome. Enquiries to Alex Stell [email protected] . The many youth squads are training at various venues/times. Details from [email protected]
While all of our 27 young players involved in the Gloucestershire County winter training programmes are keeping busy at their respective weekly sessions, six of them (and some lucky family members accompanying them) are looking forward to jetting off to warmer climes very soon now. Maisie Hunkin, Ellen Harris, Maddie Hughes, Helen Cutler, Molly Bliss and Georgie Hunt (a product of Frenchay Primary School) are off for ten days in Sri Lanka as part of the Gloucestershire U17 Girls Squad.
As the evenings begin to draw out, it means that the outdoor cricket season is not too far away. All the senior fixtures have been published and the various youth fixtures are being sorted as this article goes to press. Meantime, the U13 Boys are involved in the DFCA BYCL Indoor League at the Brightside Ground on Saturday afternoons and the U12 Girls with the Glos Girls Indoor League at Castle School, Thornbury on Sunday afternoons.
In terms of practice sessions, the seniors are meeting every Thursday (8.30 – 9.30) at Winterbourne International Academy Sports Hall, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne BS36 1JC. New players are welcome. Enquiries to Alex Stell [email protected] . The many youth squads are training at various venues/times. Details from [email protected]
While all of our 27 young players involved in the Gloucestershire County winter training programmes are keeping busy at their respective weekly sessions, six of them (and some lucky family members accompanying them) are looking forward to jetting off to warmer climes very soon now. Maisie Hunkin, Ellen Harris, Maddie Hughes, Helen Cutler, Molly Bliss and Georgie Hunt (a product of Frenchay Primary School) are off for ten days in Sri Lanka as part of the Gloucestershire U17 Girls Squad.
What a wonderful development experience for the young players, getting the opportunity to play against strong teams on a couple of grounds used for international test matches. As part of the build-up, the girls were recently interviewed by Geoff Twentyman for his Radio Bristol Sports Store programme. Who would have thought that when they both took up the opportunity to have a go playing cricket when the Frenchay Coach ran some sessions through our ChanceToShine Programme at their respective primary shools six years ago, that Georgie and Molly would be flying 3,000 miles to play cricket in the sun? You never know where things can lead (with a lot of commitment and support)!
January 2018
A very happy new year to the whole Frenchay Community.
While we may be well outside the summer season, the cricket club has still been a busy place with work continuing maintaining equipment and the grass surfaces. The Under 12 Boys completed a successful run in the DFCA Indoor League played at the Brightside (County) Ground. The U12 Girls Squad has also held some practice sessions prior to their taking part in the Glos Girls Indoor League Competition, played over Sunday afternoons in January and February at Castle School, Thornbury. Both of these competitions are good fun, and are also really excellent experience for the continuing development of the many young players who take part.
Looking ahead, senior indoor nets start at the Sports Hall, Winterbourne International Academy, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne, on Thursday 11th January (8.30 – 9.30), and continue each Thursday through to the end of March. New players will be welcome, and can contact the Club through [email protected]
Youth training winter nets for the youth squads for U11s through to U15s, and U17 Girls will also be starting in January on various evenings at venues in the local area.
A very happy new year to the whole Frenchay Community.
While we may be well outside the summer season, the cricket club has still been a busy place with work continuing maintaining equipment and the grass surfaces. The Under 12 Boys completed a successful run in the DFCA Indoor League played at the Brightside (County) Ground. The U12 Girls Squad has also held some practice sessions prior to their taking part in the Glos Girls Indoor League Competition, played over Sunday afternoons in January and February at Castle School, Thornbury. Both of these competitions are good fun, and are also really excellent experience for the continuing development of the many young players who take part.
Looking ahead, senior indoor nets start at the Sports Hall, Winterbourne International Academy, Flaxpits Lane, Winterbourne, on Thursday 11th January (8.30 – 9.30), and continue each Thursday through to the end of March. New players will be welcome, and can contact the Club through [email protected]
Youth training winter nets for the youth squads for U11s through to U15s, and U17 Girls will also be starting in January on various evenings at venues in the local area.
December 2017
It's great to be able to tell you that the major drainage improvements are now complete, and Frenchay Forestry have kindly assisted in the new fencing to improve the Filton Road frontage.
The well attended annual club dinner saw a number of awards handed out. Top of the list, Mike Donaldson, standing down after 21 years as 1st Xl Captain, received the Cricketer of the Year award, shared the Phil Pascall Performance for his 186 not out at Bristol West Indians with Eddie Wiilliams ( 9 – 9 v Downend 2nds), and was made a life Member.
Chare Smith received Young Player, Elliott Gibbons (2nd Xl Player), Randall Taylor (3rd Xl), Will Stabb (Sunday Xl), and Tom Bibby the prestigious John Hickman Players Player award. Pauline Brumpton picked up the Golding Award, and Ian (George) Golding the Clubman of the Year.
Celebrations for the club were the order of the evening during the Gloucestershire Clubs Womens and Girls Presentation event at the Brightside ground. Frenchay picked up awards for winning the U12 Girls Indoor League, the U13 (South) League and Lady Taverners, the U15 Indoor League and the U15 Girls Blast Trophies. In addition, Sarah Walsh and Georgie Hunt received the Individual Batting awards at U13 and U15 respectively.
There was further cause for celebration of our youth development at the club when the Gloucestershire County age groups winter training squads were announced recently. Invited to attend are 3 boys and 21 girls: -
The well attended annual club dinner saw a number of awards handed out. Top of the list, Mike Donaldson, standing down after 21 years as 1st Xl Captain, received the Cricketer of the Year award, shared the Phil Pascall Performance for his 186 not out at Bristol West Indians with Eddie Wiilliams ( 9 – 9 v Downend 2nds), and was made a life Member.
Chare Smith received Young Player, Elliott Gibbons (2nd Xl Player), Randall Taylor (3rd Xl), Will Stabb (Sunday Xl), and Tom Bibby the prestigious John Hickman Players Player award. Pauline Brumpton picked up the Golding Award, and Ian (George) Golding the Clubman of the Year.
Celebrations for the club were the order of the evening during the Gloucestershire Clubs Womens and Girls Presentation event at the Brightside ground. Frenchay picked up awards for winning the U12 Girls Indoor League, the U13 (South) League and Lady Taverners, the U15 Indoor League and the U15 Girls Blast Trophies. In addition, Sarah Walsh and Georgie Hunt received the Individual Batting awards at U13 and U15 respectively.
There was further cause for celebration of our youth development at the club when the Gloucestershire County age groups winter training squads were announced recently. Invited to attend are 3 boys and 21 girls: -
- Under 11’s (County) - Ellie Donaldson, Lilly Moss, Jemima Smith
- U12’s (District) - Lewis Moss
- U13’s (County) - Rachel Le Poidevin, Izzy Patel, Evie Patterson, Isabel Richards (District) - Tom Dobinson (Development)- Fiona Plenty
- U14’s (County) Joe Moss
- U15’s (County) Molly Bliss, Phoebe Bradford,Lily Knox, Katie Padfield, Amy Patterson, Sarah Walsh (Development) - Harriet Sylvester
- U17’s (County) - Ellen Harris, Maddie Hughes, Maisie Hunkin, Georgie Hunt, Naima Milhofer, Natasha Wraith
November 2017
Youth awards presentations took place over two evenings in September. The main awards went to Joe Moss (Youth Player of the Year) for his overall performances, and Georgie Hunt (Youth Clubman of the Year) for her work assisting with the coaching at Frenchay School.
A host of young players were rewarded for their hard work over the season. It is particularly pleasing that nine of the award winners have come through from our ChanceToShine coaching links with the local primary schools. Notable successes were U11 Boys - KO Cup Semi Finalists, U11 Girls - Lady Taverners County Runners Up, U12 Girls - Glos Indoor Champions, U13 Girls won the Glos Girls South League and the County Lady Taverners Competition. The U15 Flames Girls are the inaugural Glos Girls Blast champions.
More achievements have also been recognised for our young players at the recent Gloucestershire County Age Group Awards evening at the Brightside (County) Ground. Centre stage went to Natasha Wraith, who was named Player of the Year for both the U15 and U17 County Girls. Sarah Walsh was rewarded for her hard work by being given the U13 Performance of the Year award, for her innings of 41 to secure a win in the county match against Wales at Colstons School in May.
Focus now turns to indoors and the Frenchay Wonder Womens team will be taking part in the first Gloucestershire Womens Softball Festival at Wycliffe College during this month. Details of the indoor winter training programme for seniors and youth groups will be announced in the December Frenchay News.
At the ground, work is progressing well with the drainage improvements for the main pitch, courtesy of the generous grants from Sport England and South Gloucestershire Council.
Youth awards presentations took place over two evenings in September. The main awards went to Joe Moss (Youth Player of the Year) for his overall performances, and Georgie Hunt (Youth Clubman of the Year) for her work assisting with the coaching at Frenchay School.
A host of young players were rewarded for their hard work over the season. It is particularly pleasing that nine of the award winners have come through from our ChanceToShine coaching links with the local primary schools. Notable successes were U11 Boys - KO Cup Semi Finalists, U11 Girls - Lady Taverners County Runners Up, U12 Girls - Glos Indoor Champions, U13 Girls won the Glos Girls South League and the County Lady Taverners Competition. The U15 Flames Girls are the inaugural Glos Girls Blast champions.
More achievements have also been recognised for our young players at the recent Gloucestershire County Age Group Awards evening at the Brightside (County) Ground. Centre stage went to Natasha Wraith, who was named Player of the Year for both the U15 and U17 County Girls. Sarah Walsh was rewarded for her hard work by being given the U13 Performance of the Year award, for her innings of 41 to secure a win in the county match against Wales at Colstons School in May.
Focus now turns to indoors and the Frenchay Wonder Womens team will be taking part in the first Gloucestershire Womens Softball Festival at Wycliffe College during this month. Details of the indoor winter training programme for seniors and youth groups will be announced in the December Frenchay News.
At the ground, work is progressing well with the drainage improvements for the main pitch, courtesy of the generous grants from Sport England and South Gloucestershire Council.
October 2017
The season just gone may not have been spectacularly hot, but for the second time in three years, the 1st Xl played every one of the 18 scheduled league matches. Sadly, they fell just short of achieving promotion back to the West of England Premier League. Nevertheless with a considerable number of players new to the Club, this season is seen as a success. Notable amongst that, Char Smith was Senior Division leading wicket taker, with ‘Aussie’ Bryan Lutter 3rd and Eddie Williams 5th. Mike Donaldson was 2nd in the batting averages with the highest individual score (186 not out), and Tom Bibby finished as leading wicketkeeper across the entire league with 27 victims.
The 2nd Xl finished a very creditable 4th with their mix of youth and experience, and the 3rd Xl completed their programme, sometimes with a struggle, but with invaluable experience for many young players. Another notable achievement was 15 yr old Natasha Wraith establishing herself as the no. 1 wicketkeeper for the Gloucestershire County Senior Womens Team, with 16 yr old Naima Milhofer making her senior county debut, and 15 yr old Maisie Hunkin called up as 12th man.
These plus the many girls and boys who are currently going through county trials, shows the strength in depth of our youth system through the age groups.
The season just gone may not have been spectacularly hot, but for the second time in three years, the 1st Xl played every one of the 18 scheduled league matches. Sadly, they fell just short of achieving promotion back to the West of England Premier League. Nevertheless with a considerable number of players new to the Club, this season is seen as a success. Notable amongst that, Char Smith was Senior Division leading wicket taker, with ‘Aussie’ Bryan Lutter 3rd and Eddie Williams 5th. Mike Donaldson was 2nd in the batting averages with the highest individual score (186 not out), and Tom Bibby finished as leading wicketkeeper across the entire league with 27 victims.
The 2nd Xl finished a very creditable 4th with their mix of youth and experience, and the 3rd Xl completed their programme, sometimes with a struggle, but with invaluable experience for many young players. Another notable achievement was 15 yr old Natasha Wraith establishing herself as the no. 1 wicketkeeper for the Gloucestershire County Senior Womens Team, with 16 yr old Naima Milhofer making her senior county debut, and 15 yr old Maisie Hunkin called up as 12th man.
These plus the many girls and boys who are currently going through county trials, shows the strength in depth of our youth system through the age groups.
One of the outstanding successes has been the establishment of the Frenchay Womens Social Cricket Team, pictured at the county ground. Throughout the summer, the group has met on a Monday evening, and amidst lots of laughter, they have had real fun getting into cricket, learning the skill of overarm bowling’. They have taken part in several festivals against similar teams of women, including at the county (Brightside) ground, and few can say ‘we have played cricket on the county ground’.
September 2017
Another cricket season is drawing to a close and on the field, the 1st Xl continue on their good run, and need to maintain this to the end of the league season in early September. The 2nd & 3rd Xl’s have enjoyed modest success this term, with lots of the youth players involved.
The U13 Foxes girls won their section, but lost their league semi final in creditable fashion to a very competent Winterbourne side. With nine of the eleven players available at this age group next year, the prospects are really good.
The U15 Flames girls took part in the inaugural Gloucestershire Clubs U15 Girls Blast tournament. Having overcome Bath in the qualifying rounds, the finals were hosted at Frenchay. Wins over Dumbleton, Charlton Kings and Corse & Staunton saw the Flames become the first holders of the Blast Trophy. While the whole squad performed well, the stand out performance was by George Hunt (a product of Frenchay School) who retired 35 not out in each match.
On 6th August, around 60 young players took part in the very successful youth day, when the age groups were mixed up in a six a side competition.
Off the field, the contractors start the major drainage improvement works on the main pitch, with work to provide the underground tank and pump beng the first phase. Once the season finishes in early September, work then starts to provide the series of parallel trenches with porous pipes and gravel. Hopefully good weather will allow completion and reinstatement of the outfield by early autumn, giving maximum recovery time prior to the 2018 season. The club is very grateful for the support of Sport England and South Gloucestershire Council in helping to achieve this massive and very welcome improvement of our facility.
Another cricket season is drawing to a close and on the field, the 1st Xl continue on their good run, and need to maintain this to the end of the league season in early September. The 2nd & 3rd Xl’s have enjoyed modest success this term, with lots of the youth players involved.
The U13 Foxes girls won their section, but lost their league semi final in creditable fashion to a very competent Winterbourne side. With nine of the eleven players available at this age group next year, the prospects are really good.
The U15 Flames girls took part in the inaugural Gloucestershire Clubs U15 Girls Blast tournament. Having overcome Bath in the qualifying rounds, the finals were hosted at Frenchay. Wins over Dumbleton, Charlton Kings and Corse & Staunton saw the Flames become the first holders of the Blast Trophy. While the whole squad performed well, the stand out performance was by George Hunt (a product of Frenchay School) who retired 35 not out in each match.
On 6th August, around 60 young players took part in the very successful youth day, when the age groups were mixed up in a six a side competition.
Off the field, the contractors start the major drainage improvement works on the main pitch, with work to provide the underground tank and pump beng the first phase. Once the season finishes in early September, work then starts to provide the series of parallel trenches with porous pipes and gravel. Hopefully good weather will allow completion and reinstatement of the outfield by early autumn, giving maximum recovery time prior to the 2018 season. The club is very grateful for the support of Sport England and South Gloucestershire Council in helping to achieve this massive and very welcome improvement of our facility.
August 2017
The weather so far (which will hopefully continue through the season) has been very helpful for cricket. The 1st Xl are continuing a good run, the 2nd Xl having a good season, and the 3rd Xl doing well with the resources. In the youth teams, the U11 girls finished as runners up and the U13s as winners in their respective Lady Taveners County tournaments. All the sides have had good experiences as the season begins to draw to a close and some are in contention for further honours.
Off the field, Friday youth night continues to be as popular as ever with the place heaving with young people and families enjoying the chance to chat and relax. 30 of the younger players had a fabulous time on 9th July, having had the privilege of being invited by the ECB to take part in the opening ceremony of the Womens World Cup match between England and Australia at the Brightside (county) ground, Bristol. More than 100 members of the club attended what turned out to be a nail biting win for England and the youngsters were also given the opportunity of playing on the hallowed turf during the luncheon interval and obtaining masses of autographs. What an experience!
On the same day, Frenchay itself was incredibly busy, hosting 12 under 9 teams in a tournament. Cricket coaching at Frenchay Primary school has been completed, with house matches, concluding the year 5 & 6 sessions and a shorter series of sessions for the years 2 & 3.
Dates for the Diary
The weather so far (which will hopefully continue through the season) has been very helpful for cricket. The 1st Xl are continuing a good run, the 2nd Xl having a good season, and the 3rd Xl doing well with the resources. In the youth teams, the U11 girls finished as runners up and the U13s as winners in their respective Lady Taveners County tournaments. All the sides have had good experiences as the season begins to draw to a close and some are in contention for further honours.
Off the field, Friday youth night continues to be as popular as ever with the place heaving with young people and families enjoying the chance to chat and relax. 30 of the younger players had a fabulous time on 9th July, having had the privilege of being invited by the ECB to take part in the opening ceremony of the Womens World Cup match between England and Australia at the Brightside (county) ground, Bristol. More than 100 members of the club attended what turned out to be a nail biting win for England and the youngsters were also given the opportunity of playing on the hallowed turf during the luncheon interval and obtaining masses of autographs. What an experience!
On the same day, Frenchay itself was incredibly busy, hosting 12 under 9 teams in a tournament. Cricket coaching at Frenchay Primary school has been completed, with house matches, concluding the year 5 & 6 sessions and a shorter series of sessions for the years 2 & 3.
Dates for the Diary
- Tuesday 1st August – Charity event involving No 5 Chambers in support of legal aid in Bristol
- Sunday 6th August – Frenchay youth day when all the age groups come together for a 6 a side competition where handicaps help to even out matches. Great fun day and experience
- Sunday 13th August – the league championship finals of the DFCA Bristol Youth Cricket League
July 2017
We are well into the season now and all the senior teams seem to have started well, although there is a long way to go and no doubt a few twists and turns to experience. So far there have been some impressive individual performances, led by Eddie Williams taking nine wickets for nine runs against Downend 2nds, Mike Donaldson hitting 186 not out against Bristol West Indians and Phoenix, and Natasha Wraith scoring a century against Wales in a U15 ECB League County match.
It is great to see the new bowling machine, the mobile batting net and the wooden pole batting net system getting plenty of use by seniors and youth teams alike. These have been provided following the receipt of grant funding through the S106 process from South Gloucestershire Council.
Off the field, there is good progress with the scheme to improve the drainage of the main pitch. Tenders have been submitted and a contractor appointed with the agreement of Sport England. Work is set to start on the installation of the attenuation tank and pumps before the end of the season. This will then allow for the completion of the playing season, before work commences in early September on the construction of the system of trenches across the areas of the outfield most susceptible to waterlogging.
Achieving this timetable is important to secure completion in the early autumn to allow surface reinstatement and maximum recovery time before the start of the 2018 season.
Dates for the Diary
Sunday 9th July (10.00 – 3.30) – Frenchay Invitation Under 9 Tournament
Sunday 16th July (all day) – U15 Glos Club Girls Bash County Finals – Four U15 Girls teams playing a round-robin tournament to decide the U15 Glos champions.
Thursday 20th July – No 5 Chambers Charity Cricket Day
Senior contact [email protected] Youth contact [email protected]
We are well into the season now and all the senior teams seem to have started well, although there is a long way to go and no doubt a few twists and turns to experience. So far there have been some impressive individual performances, led by Eddie Williams taking nine wickets for nine runs against Downend 2nds, Mike Donaldson hitting 186 not out against Bristol West Indians and Phoenix, and Natasha Wraith scoring a century against Wales in a U15 ECB League County match.
It is great to see the new bowling machine, the mobile batting net and the wooden pole batting net system getting plenty of use by seniors and youth teams alike. These have been provided following the receipt of grant funding through the S106 process from South Gloucestershire Council.
Off the field, there is good progress with the scheme to improve the drainage of the main pitch. Tenders have been submitted and a contractor appointed with the agreement of Sport England. Work is set to start on the installation of the attenuation tank and pumps before the end of the season. This will then allow for the completion of the playing season, before work commences in early September on the construction of the system of trenches across the areas of the outfield most susceptible to waterlogging.
Achieving this timetable is important to secure completion in the early autumn to allow surface reinstatement and maximum recovery time before the start of the 2018 season.
Dates for the Diary
Sunday 9th July (10.00 – 3.30) – Frenchay Invitation Under 9 Tournament
Sunday 16th July (all day) – U15 Glos Club Girls Bash County Finals – Four U15 Girls teams playing a round-robin tournament to decide the U15 Glos champions.
Thursday 20th July – No 5 Chambers Charity Cricket Day
Senior contact [email protected] Youth contact [email protected]
June 2017
The first Frenchay Sport Family Open Day held on Saturday 22nd April seemed to go well. The six clubs involved (Frenchay Runners, Dings Crusaders RFC, Frenchay Tennis Club, Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club, Bristol Golf Centre, and the Cricket Club) all reported lots of interest.
The day started with local MP, Jack Lopresti formally opening the event, supported by Cllr Trevor Jones, who provided funding support for publicity through his ‘Member Awarded Fund’. A ‘Family 2K Run’ organised around the edge of the cricket ground, took place in the morning, and it proved very popular for the young, the very young, and the slightly older. Dings provided the chance of touch rugby, lots took advantage to try tennis and cricket, and a number of people took the opportunity to try out the golf range.
The clubs have already decided to make this an annual event, and have already met to start arrangements for 2018. Thank you to the Frenchay News team for your cooperation in helping to promote this new event in the community.
The first Frenchay Sport Family Open Day held on Saturday 22nd April seemed to go well. The six clubs involved (Frenchay Runners, Dings Crusaders RFC, Frenchay Tennis Club, Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club, Bristol Golf Centre, and the Cricket Club) all reported lots of interest.
The day started with local MP, Jack Lopresti formally opening the event, supported by Cllr Trevor Jones, who provided funding support for publicity through his ‘Member Awarded Fund’. A ‘Family 2K Run’ organised around the edge of the cricket ground, took place in the morning, and it proved very popular for the young, the very young, and the slightly older. Dings provided the chance of touch rugby, lots took advantage to try tennis and cricket, and a number of people took the opportunity to try out the golf range.
The clubs have already decided to make this an annual event, and have already met to start arrangements for 2018. Thank you to the Frenchay News team for your cooperation in helping to promote this new event in the community.
Lots of cricket has now taken place, with the senior teams starting positively, and all of the youth sides making best use of some good weather to get lots of matches played. News has also come through that 24 of our youth players (5 boys and 19 Girls) have been selected to take part at county level for Gloucestershire (6 Frenchay girls represented Gloucestershire in a recent under 15 win over arch rivals Somerset!).
The Falcons Ability Cricket groups are running on a Monday evening, and we ran a very successful SEN Schools Day in early May. All Stars Cricket for 6-7 yr olds has started on a Sunday morning, and not to be outdone, a Social Womens Cricket Group is running on Monday evenings.
The Falcons Ability Cricket groups are running on a Monday evening, and we ran a very successful SEN Schools Day in early May. All Stars Cricket for 6-7 yr olds has started on a Sunday morning, and not to be outdone, a Social Womens Cricket Group is running on Monday evenings.
May 2017
The new Season is under way, with the first senior league matches due on Saturday 6th May: the 1st Xl playing at home to Portishead; the 2nds away to Bristol YMCA 2nds; the 3rds away to Old Down 2nd Xl. Lots of the youth teams have also had league and KO Cup action already and Friday evening youth nights at the club have been ‘buzzing’!
Coming Soon ...
FRENCHAY FALCONS ABILITY CRICKET GROUPS
For those with learning difficulties, meeting at the ground every Monday evening starting on Monday 8th May. The two groups are ‘11 – 16 yrs’ at 6.15 – 7.15, and ‘16+’ at 7.15 – 8.15, led by experienced Coaches. Anyone interested contact: [email protected] .
ALL STARS CRICKET FOR BOYS AND GIRLS IN YEARS 1 & 2
Join an exciting group for children new to cricket, who would like to have some fun as part of an initiative from the English Cricket Board. Frenchay All Stars starts on Sunday morning 21st May (11.00 – 12.00), and runs for eight weeks. Either email
[email protected] or follow the link below to sign your child up
https://ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/Course/3c8c5f98-12ac-41e1-90d7-ebe1ab4561f2
A WOMENS SOCIAL CRICKET GROUP
Starting soon at Frenchay, a group for any women (14+) who want to have some fun playing informal softball Ccricket’. There will be a series of sessions run at Frenchay by experienced coaches and then a chance to play in several festivals against similar teams. More information, contact [email protected] or visit www.frenchaycc.com
A really big ‘Thank You’ to our two local councillors: Trevor Jones for agreeing to fund the publicity element of the recent Frenchay Sport Family Open Day held on 22nd April (Report in June edition); Bob Pullin for supporting alterations in the clubhouse to provide a female changing area’ (when required) for our girls/women playing in senior cricket matches.
Senior Cricket contact –[email protected]
Youth Cricket contact - [email protected]
The new Season is under way, with the first senior league matches due on Saturday 6th May: the 1st Xl playing at home to Portishead; the 2nds away to Bristol YMCA 2nds; the 3rds away to Old Down 2nd Xl. Lots of the youth teams have also had league and KO Cup action already and Friday evening youth nights at the club have been ‘buzzing’!
Coming Soon ...
FRENCHAY FALCONS ABILITY CRICKET GROUPS
For those with learning difficulties, meeting at the ground every Monday evening starting on Monday 8th May. The two groups are ‘11 – 16 yrs’ at 6.15 – 7.15, and ‘16+’ at 7.15 – 8.15, led by experienced Coaches. Anyone interested contact: [email protected] .
ALL STARS CRICKET FOR BOYS AND GIRLS IN YEARS 1 & 2
Join an exciting group for children new to cricket, who would like to have some fun as part of an initiative from the English Cricket Board. Frenchay All Stars starts on Sunday morning 21st May (11.00 – 12.00), and runs for eight weeks. Either email
[email protected] or follow the link below to sign your child up
https://ecb.clubspark.uk/AllStars/Course/3c8c5f98-12ac-41e1-90d7-ebe1ab4561f2
A WOMENS SOCIAL CRICKET GROUP
Starting soon at Frenchay, a group for any women (14+) who want to have some fun playing informal softball Ccricket’. There will be a series of sessions run at Frenchay by experienced coaches and then a chance to play in several festivals against similar teams. More information, contact [email protected] or visit www.frenchaycc.com
A really big ‘Thank You’ to our two local councillors: Trevor Jones for agreeing to fund the publicity element of the recent Frenchay Sport Family Open Day held on 22nd April (Report in June edition); Bob Pullin for supporting alterations in the clubhouse to provide a female changing area’ (when required) for our girls/women playing in senior cricket matches.
Senior Cricket contact –[email protected]
Youth Cricket contact - [email protected]
April 2017
The new outdoor season is almost here, and (as I write this) hopefully the weather has been considerably drier through March for the ground to recover. The long awaited drainage improvements to the main pitch area of the ground cannot come soon enough!
The club is delighted to be jointly hosting the first Frenchay Family Sport Open Day on Saturday 22nd April. Full details appear on the central pages of Frenchay Community News. It’s great that six local Sports Clubs: Frenchay Tennis, Downend and Frenchay Tennis, Frenchay Runners, Bristol Golf Range, Dings Crusaders RFC (coming to Shaftesbury Park in Frenchay Park Road in October) and ourselves are getting together to promote sport in the community.
The completed indoor league season had mixed fortunes for Frenchay sides involved. The seniors finished third in their league, while the U13 B’s struggled manfully against very competitive opposition, but will have learned along the way. However we are delighted that the U12 Girls (including locals Rachel le Poidevin, Evie Patterson, Ester Green and Becca Whone) finished unbeaten as Gloucestershire champions, and the U15’s (including locals Mia Balkwill and Amy Patterson) followed this by winning the Gloucestershire tournament.
The senior teams begin their friendly matches on 22/23 April, before starting their league programmes on Saturday 6th May. Our youth teams will be in action from later April, with the U13 Foxes and U15 Flames girls both drawn to play Brislington in the Lady Taverners National Club KO competitions. The full fixture schedule can be found at http://frenchay.play-cricket.com/website/web_pages/189028
ALL STARS CRICKET FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN
Coming to Frenchay on Sunday 30th April, a new ECB initiative aimed at introducing 5– 8 yr olds to Cricket.
For more details, see www.frenchaycc.com or http://www.ecb.co.uk/be-involved/club-support/programme-support/all-stars-cricket-centres
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
The new outdoor season is almost here, and (as I write this) hopefully the weather has been considerably drier through March for the ground to recover. The long awaited drainage improvements to the main pitch area of the ground cannot come soon enough!
The club is delighted to be jointly hosting the first Frenchay Family Sport Open Day on Saturday 22nd April. Full details appear on the central pages of Frenchay Community News. It’s great that six local Sports Clubs: Frenchay Tennis, Downend and Frenchay Tennis, Frenchay Runners, Bristol Golf Range, Dings Crusaders RFC (coming to Shaftesbury Park in Frenchay Park Road in October) and ourselves are getting together to promote sport in the community.
The completed indoor league season had mixed fortunes for Frenchay sides involved. The seniors finished third in their league, while the U13 B’s struggled manfully against very competitive opposition, but will have learned along the way. However we are delighted that the U12 Girls (including locals Rachel le Poidevin, Evie Patterson, Ester Green and Becca Whone) finished unbeaten as Gloucestershire champions, and the U15’s (including locals Mia Balkwill and Amy Patterson) followed this by winning the Gloucestershire tournament.
The senior teams begin their friendly matches on 22/23 April, before starting their league programmes on Saturday 6th May. Our youth teams will be in action from later April, with the U13 Foxes and U15 Flames girls both drawn to play Brislington in the Lady Taverners National Club KO competitions. The full fixture schedule can be found at http://frenchay.play-cricket.com/website/web_pages/189028
ALL STARS CRICKET FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN
Coming to Frenchay on Sunday 30th April, a new ECB initiative aimed at introducing 5– 8 yr olds to Cricket.
For more details, see www.frenchaycc.com or http://www.ecb.co.uk/be-involved/club-support/programme-support/all-stars-cricket-centres
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
March 2017
The new outdoor season rapidly approaches, the nights drawing out, and (hopefully) the wet weather relenting! The season ahead for all teams is now mapped out with their respective fixtures available at http://frenchay.play-cricket.com/website/web_pages/189028
The four senior teams and nine youth teams are set for busy times.
The grounds team have been busy, with a main portion of the hedge to Filton Road trimmed, and further painting inside and out. Looking ahead, we will be holding the NatWest Cricket Force Weekend on Saturday/Sunday 1st/2nd April, with lots of volunteers getting the ground ready for the season ahead.
The drainage improvement scheme for the main pitch area has moved forward with a formal offer from Sport England, and we now await detailed estimates from specialist contractors. The intention is to start the works towards the end of August, so that as much restoration as possible is achieved prior to the start of the 2018 season.
Indoor Training
Our two younger teams taking part in the indoor leagues are experiencing mixed fortunes. The U13 ‘B’s are generally struggling against stronger, more experienced opponents, and the U12 girls with lots of players keen to play, are currently faring better against their Gloucestershire based counterparts.
Looking ahead, we welcome Old Park Cricket Club, relocating to the Bob Stone Ground this coming season. They will be sharing the top pitch with the 3rd Xl, and we look forward to a long and happy relationship. Contact - http://oldpark.play-cricket.com/
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
The new outdoor season rapidly approaches, the nights drawing out, and (hopefully) the wet weather relenting! The season ahead for all teams is now mapped out with their respective fixtures available at http://frenchay.play-cricket.com/website/web_pages/189028
The four senior teams and nine youth teams are set for busy times.
The grounds team have been busy, with a main portion of the hedge to Filton Road trimmed, and further painting inside and out. Looking ahead, we will be holding the NatWest Cricket Force Weekend on Saturday/Sunday 1st/2nd April, with lots of volunteers getting the ground ready for the season ahead.
The drainage improvement scheme for the main pitch area has moved forward with a formal offer from Sport England, and we now await detailed estimates from specialist contractors. The intention is to start the works towards the end of August, so that as much restoration as possible is achieved prior to the start of the 2018 season.
Indoor Training
- Seniors - Tuesdays 9.00 – 10.00 at Fairfield High Schoo. Contact [email protected].
- Youth teams spread across the week at different venues continuing through March.
- Outdoor youth training will start week commencing 3rd April. Contact: [email protected]
Our two younger teams taking part in the indoor leagues are experiencing mixed fortunes. The U13 ‘B’s are generally struggling against stronger, more experienced opponents, and the U12 girls with lots of players keen to play, are currently faring better against their Gloucestershire based counterparts.
Looking ahead, we welcome Old Park Cricket Club, relocating to the Bob Stone Ground this coming season. They will be sharing the top pitch with the 3rd Xl, and we look forward to a long and happy relationship. Contact - http://oldpark.play-cricket.com/
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
Frenchay Sport Open Day coming on Saturday 22nd April
February 2017
We can now expand on the 22 young players reported in January, as joining the various county winter training programme.
Congratulations to Natasha Wraith (U15), who, as well as joining the Western Storm Development Squad, is the sole girl of just five young players from the whole of the county in the Gloucestershire Emerging Players Programme (EPP). We can also congratulate Naima Milhofer (U17) and (for the first time) Lily Knox (U13), both in the Gloucestershire Girls EPP and Maisie Hunkin (U15) in the girls Sub EPP programme.
The weather conditions at this time of the year mean that outside work preparing the ground for the coming season is very limited. Nevertheless, the ground team have been as occupied as they can be, and the paint brush/roller and emulsion have been very busy giving the inside of the clubhouse a very welcome freshen up.
The detailed report on drainage improvements has been received from the geotechnical consultants, and this provides three alternative ways of improving the drainage of the main pitch. The extent of the work that will ultimately be involved will be dependent on the comparative costs vs budget from Sport England, and we are in discussion with them to finalise the details and programme. Whichever option is chosen, it will produce a better drained pitch, which will result in more matches being played, and just as important, allow better, fuller use of the ground.
Senior indoor nets are now in full swing at Fairfield High School off Muller Road, Horfield (every Friday 9.00 – 10.00). Indoor nets for our various youth teams start this month at a number of locations. For details contact [email protected]
Frenchay Sport Open Day is coming in April. More details in March.
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
We can now expand on the 22 young players reported in January, as joining the various county winter training programme.
Congratulations to Natasha Wraith (U15), who, as well as joining the Western Storm Development Squad, is the sole girl of just five young players from the whole of the county in the Gloucestershire Emerging Players Programme (EPP). We can also congratulate Naima Milhofer (U17) and (for the first time) Lily Knox (U13), both in the Gloucestershire Girls EPP and Maisie Hunkin (U15) in the girls Sub EPP programme.
The weather conditions at this time of the year mean that outside work preparing the ground for the coming season is very limited. Nevertheless, the ground team have been as occupied as they can be, and the paint brush/roller and emulsion have been very busy giving the inside of the clubhouse a very welcome freshen up.
The detailed report on drainage improvements has been received from the geotechnical consultants, and this provides three alternative ways of improving the drainage of the main pitch. The extent of the work that will ultimately be involved will be dependent on the comparative costs vs budget from Sport England, and we are in discussion with them to finalise the details and programme. Whichever option is chosen, it will produce a better drained pitch, which will result in more matches being played, and just as important, allow better, fuller use of the ground.
Senior indoor nets are now in full swing at Fairfield High School off Muller Road, Horfield (every Friday 9.00 – 10.00). Indoor nets for our various youth teams start this month at a number of locations. For details contact [email protected]
Frenchay Sport Open Day is coming in April. More details in March.
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
January 2017
A very happy new year to everyone!
In the indoor leagues in the autumn, with the final to go, Frenchay seniors are in a good position to win the very first DFCA Adult Sevens indoor league title. The fairly inexperienced U12’s have found it tougher against generally more experienced opposition, but nevertheless came away with credit for their performances and commitment. Looking ahead, our two girls squads (U12’s and U15’s) start their respective Glos Clubs indoor competitions at Castle School, Thornbury against other similar girls teams in early January.
Fairly quiet time at the club for the next few weeks, but far from that for lots of the players and coaches. For the club teams, indoor practice net’ sessions for all the senior teams start weekly on Tuesday 17th January in the sports hall at Fairfield High School, Horfield (9.00 – 10.00 pm). Anyone interested, please contact Mike Donaldson (07470486017 or [email protected]). Indoor practice net sessions for youth squads start at several different venues in February, details next month.
In addition, 22 of our young players are now embarking, some for the first time, in the concentrated winter training programmes of various Gloucestershire County performance squads. These young players will be looking to make their mark with the respective coaching teams, working hard to hopefully secure a place in the summer playing squads.
Looking a little ahead, the club will soon be finalising details of the Chance To Shine cricket coaching programmes at Frenchay School and four other local schools, and we hope these will be good for the children, the schools and the club. And there is no doubt, with the numbers who have already progressed further, it’s also good for the wider sport.
Sally Donaldson,
Contact at: [email protected] or www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
A very happy new year to everyone!
In the indoor leagues in the autumn, with the final to go, Frenchay seniors are in a good position to win the very first DFCA Adult Sevens indoor league title. The fairly inexperienced U12’s have found it tougher against generally more experienced opposition, but nevertheless came away with credit for their performances and commitment. Looking ahead, our two girls squads (U12’s and U15’s) start their respective Glos Clubs indoor competitions at Castle School, Thornbury against other similar girls teams in early January.
Fairly quiet time at the club for the next few weeks, but far from that for lots of the players and coaches. For the club teams, indoor practice net’ sessions for all the senior teams start weekly on Tuesday 17th January in the sports hall at Fairfield High School, Horfield (9.00 – 10.00 pm). Anyone interested, please contact Mike Donaldson (07470486017 or [email protected]). Indoor practice net sessions for youth squads start at several different venues in February, details next month.
In addition, 22 of our young players are now embarking, some for the first time, in the concentrated winter training programmes of various Gloucestershire County performance squads. These young players will be looking to make their mark with the respective coaching teams, working hard to hopefully secure a place in the summer playing squads.
Looking a little ahead, the club will soon be finalising details of the Chance To Shine cricket coaching programmes at Frenchay School and four other local schools, and we hope these will be good for the children, the schools and the club. And there is no doubt, with the numbers who have already progressed further, it’s also good for the wider sport.
Sally Donaldson,
Contact at: [email protected] or www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
December 2016
The strength of the youth programme at Frenchay has been underlined with the recent announcement of the 2017 Gloucestershire County winter training age group squads, where 5 boys and 17 girls from the club are included.
Local youngsters Georgie Hunt and Amy Patterson (U15’s) and Evie Patterson (U11’s) feature in the highest numbers ever recorded for the club. On top of this, Natasha Wraith has been invited to join the Western Storm (ECB Regional) Development Squad, which is a serious reflection of her commitment and potential.
A very happy Christmas, and a peaceful and prosperous New Year to everyone.
Sally Donaldson
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com www.frenchaycc.com
The strength of the youth programme at Frenchay has been underlined with the recent announcement of the 2017 Gloucestershire County winter training age group squads, where 5 boys and 17 girls from the club are included.
Local youngsters Georgie Hunt and Amy Patterson (U15’s) and Evie Patterson (U11’s) feature in the highest numbers ever recorded for the club. On top of this, Natasha Wraith has been invited to join the Western Storm (ECB Regional) Development Squad, which is a serious reflection of her commitment and potential.
A very happy Christmas, and a peaceful and prosperous New Year to everyone.
Sally Donaldson
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com www.frenchaycc.com
November 2016
Late September saw two really busy youth presentation evenings at the club. ‘Standing room only’ on both evenings tells the tale of a flourishing youth system, as the players and parents/relatives met for the last time before the winter break (for most anyway!).
Late September saw two really busy youth presentation evenings at the club. ‘Standing room only’ on both evenings tells the tale of a flourishing youth system, as the players and parents/relatives met for the last time before the winter break (for most anyway!).
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The Senior Awards took place at a very lively Annual Presentation Dinner held at Cleve Rugby Club.
- Clubman of the Year – Geoff Kendall
- Cricketer of the Year – Tyrone Isitt
- Players Player – Keith Stiddard
- Young Player of the Year – Matt Taylor
- Performance of the Year – Sam Pine
- 2nd Xl Player – Harvey Marshall
- 3rd Xl Player – Naima Milhofer
- Sunday Xl Player – Reece Bevan
- Tankards for Centuries – Bob Stone (lll), Mike Donaldson, Sam Pine, Matt Taylor;
- Hat Trick (v Stapleton) – Tyrone Isitt
Find out more at: www.frenchay.play-cricket.com and www.frenchaycc.com
Sally Donaldson – [email protected]
Sally Donaldson – [email protected]
October 2016
How quickly the season has gone. No sooner looking forward to getting the first matches played, than working on putting the ground to bed for the winter!
On the field, sadly the season went from bad to worse for the 1st Xl, who after some average performances, were left to frustratingly watch the rain fall on the last day of the season when we needed to play and win, resulting in relegation by just two points.
The 2nd Xl finished a creditable fifth in their division, while the 3rd Xl were also relegated, having in reality been placed in too high a division in the restructuring. ‘Rebuild and reinvigorate for 2017’ is now the message, no crying over spilt milk.
Off the field, the groundstaff and volunteers were really busy in September, carrying out the very necessary work scarifying the surfaces, laying loam and re-seeding, preparing the two squares for next year. The receipt of the detailed report from the geotechnical consultants on the drainage improvements has been delayed, so we do not know as yet what the detailed recommendations are, the costs involved, or how and when the work will take place.
Details of the youth and senior presentation evenings will be published next month. Meanwhile, while the outdoor season has finished, two indoor leagues operated by DFCA Coaching are now starting at the Brightside (County) Ground. The U13 Boys will be involved with a league including seven other teams, and the seniors are involved in a new venture for players from U14 upwards.
Secretary Sally Donaldson [email protected] 01179600213
How quickly the season has gone. No sooner looking forward to getting the first matches played, than working on putting the ground to bed for the winter!
On the field, sadly the season went from bad to worse for the 1st Xl, who after some average performances, were left to frustratingly watch the rain fall on the last day of the season when we needed to play and win, resulting in relegation by just two points.
The 2nd Xl finished a creditable fifth in their division, while the 3rd Xl were also relegated, having in reality been placed in too high a division in the restructuring. ‘Rebuild and reinvigorate for 2017’ is now the message, no crying over spilt milk.
Off the field, the groundstaff and volunteers were really busy in September, carrying out the very necessary work scarifying the surfaces, laying loam and re-seeding, preparing the two squares for next year. The receipt of the detailed report from the geotechnical consultants on the drainage improvements has been delayed, so we do not know as yet what the detailed recommendations are, the costs involved, or how and when the work will take place.
Details of the youth and senior presentation evenings will be published next month. Meanwhile, while the outdoor season has finished, two indoor leagues operated by DFCA Coaching are now starting at the Brightside (County) Ground. The U13 Boys will be involved with a league including seven other teams, and the seniors are involved in a new venture for players from U14 upwards.
Secretary Sally Donaldson [email protected] 01179600213
September 2016
Another season draws quickly to a close. 'Where did it go?' seem to be the words on the lips of everyone I speak to!
Fortunes on the pitch have been mixed for all the senior sides, but there have been lots of the younger players being given (and taking) the opportunity to play a more challenging form of cricket.
At youth level, the U17’s had a good season, reaching the KO Cup Semi Finals, and being pipped on the post in the league. Up through the age groups, each team performed well, and we have to thank the volunteers who led and coached the teams up to and throughout the season.
Off the field, we still await the consultants report and recommendations for the drainage improvements at the ground. A soggy outfield has again been responsible for cancelled and abandoned matches, so we must find a solution.
The drawings showing the preferred design for our new clubhouse were published at the ECB Club Open Day sponsored by Waitrose, held in August jointly with the Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club. The scheme reflects the multi-sport status of the ground by providing six changing rooms, designed to accommodate tennis as well as cricket. This also reflects the mixed teams that Frenchay is now proud to have, with our increasing number of girls/women playing at senior and youth levels.
It also looks ahead to the situation when over 3000 new homes are in place within one mile of the ground. The social area can be sub-divided, so that two separate events can take place, providing a healthier and more sustainable future.
September will see the grounds team plus others, working hard on the two squares, to ensure that the wickets provided in 2017 are up the usual good standard.
More details to be found on our website at http://frenchaycc.com
Another season draws quickly to a close. 'Where did it go?' seem to be the words on the lips of everyone I speak to!
Fortunes on the pitch have been mixed for all the senior sides, but there have been lots of the younger players being given (and taking) the opportunity to play a more challenging form of cricket.
At youth level, the U17’s had a good season, reaching the KO Cup Semi Finals, and being pipped on the post in the league. Up through the age groups, each team performed well, and we have to thank the volunteers who led and coached the teams up to and throughout the season.
Off the field, we still await the consultants report and recommendations for the drainage improvements at the ground. A soggy outfield has again been responsible for cancelled and abandoned matches, so we must find a solution.
The drawings showing the preferred design for our new clubhouse were published at the ECB Club Open Day sponsored by Waitrose, held in August jointly with the Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club. The scheme reflects the multi-sport status of the ground by providing six changing rooms, designed to accommodate tennis as well as cricket. This also reflects the mixed teams that Frenchay is now proud to have, with our increasing number of girls/women playing at senior and youth levels.
It also looks ahead to the situation when over 3000 new homes are in place within one mile of the ground. The social area can be sub-divided, so that two separate events can take place, providing a healthier and more sustainable future.
September will see the grounds team plus others, working hard on the two squares, to ensure that the wickets provided in 2017 are up the usual good standard.
More details to be found on our website at http://frenchaycc.com
August 2016
Writing this article, we are now half way through a busy season and the weather has been changeable, a typical English summer really! On the field, the fortunes of the senior teams has been mixed, with some resounding wins seemingly followed by some not so creditable defeats.
The ‘youth production line’ continues unabated: with two U17’s (Louie Hunkin and Reece Bevan) establishing themselves in the 1st Xl with some very creditable performances; young Natasha Wraith making her wicketkeeping debut in the 2nd Xl; Natasha and Naima Milhofer securing regular places in the 3rd Xl; young Amy Patterson also making her debut in the 3rd Xl.
Off the field, two exciting projects are coming closer. Firstly, we are now awaiting the report and recommendations from the engineers appointed by Sport England to look at drainage improvements at the ground. Underlying Frenchay clay has long been a problem in times of continuing wet weather, and we expect the proposals coming forward to help to make the current waterlogging less significant. The soggy outfield alone has already cost us two cancelled/abandoned matches this season.
Secondly, locally based architects Bush Consultancy, have been working with us to produce a scheme for a new clubhouse at the ground. Our current building is no longer fit for purpose, and we must look to replace it with a facility that befits our multi sport ground. We have to be looking ahead positively with so many new houses set to be constructed in the surrounding area in the coming years. Further details will be announced shortly.
Date for the diary –‘Open Day’ on Sunday 7th August, jointly with Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club. More details to be found on the website www.frenchaycc.com
Writing this article, we are now half way through a busy season and the weather has been changeable, a typical English summer really! On the field, the fortunes of the senior teams has been mixed, with some resounding wins seemingly followed by some not so creditable defeats.
The ‘youth production line’ continues unabated: with two U17’s (Louie Hunkin and Reece Bevan) establishing themselves in the 1st Xl with some very creditable performances; young Natasha Wraith making her wicketkeeping debut in the 2nd Xl; Natasha and Naima Milhofer securing regular places in the 3rd Xl; young Amy Patterson also making her debut in the 3rd Xl.
Off the field, two exciting projects are coming closer. Firstly, we are now awaiting the report and recommendations from the engineers appointed by Sport England to look at drainage improvements at the ground. Underlying Frenchay clay has long been a problem in times of continuing wet weather, and we expect the proposals coming forward to help to make the current waterlogging less significant. The soggy outfield alone has already cost us two cancelled/abandoned matches this season.
Secondly, locally based architects Bush Consultancy, have been working with us to produce a scheme for a new clubhouse at the ground. Our current building is no longer fit for purpose, and we must look to replace it with a facility that befits our multi sport ground. We have to be looking ahead positively with so many new houses set to be constructed in the surrounding area in the coming years. Further details will be announced shortly.
Date for the diary –‘Open Day’ on Sunday 7th August, jointly with Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club. More details to be found on the website www.frenchaycc.com
June 2016
The season is now well under way with the weather mixed and most matches played. The 1st Xl started with a resounding win at Twyford House, supported by the 2nds victory over Congresbury. The mood is much more positive this season, with travel far more localised for all the sides.
Frenchay ChanceToShine, the Scheme taking Cricket into local Schools, is now leading the way as the first project in Gloucestershire to be supported by sponsorship. The partnership with Elite Tyres and Autocare of Yate and Thornbury was formally launched by Fran Wilson, a member of the England Women's International Squad and an ECB Coaching Ambassador on Frenchay Common on 17th May. Fran then had the rest of the morning coaching and talking with the children at Frenchay School, before moving on to Bromley Heath Juniors. The support from Elite will enable the Club to promote more cricket in local Schools, particularly focusing on the younger age groups at Frenchay School, as well as supporting the girls at Winterbourne International Academy.
Later in the day, a team of girls from Frenchay School took part in a ‘Kwik Cricket Festival’ involving four other primary schools at Bromley Heath.
Frenchay Girls were also involved in a little piece of history, when the U15 ‘Frenchay Flames’ took on the ‘Brislington Vipers’ at Ironmould Lane, in the first ever all girls match in the 55 years of the Bristol Youth Cricket League (pictured).
The season is now well under way with the weather mixed and most matches played. The 1st Xl started with a resounding win at Twyford House, supported by the 2nds victory over Congresbury. The mood is much more positive this season, with travel far more localised for all the sides.
Frenchay ChanceToShine, the Scheme taking Cricket into local Schools, is now leading the way as the first project in Gloucestershire to be supported by sponsorship. The partnership with Elite Tyres and Autocare of Yate and Thornbury was formally launched by Fran Wilson, a member of the England Women's International Squad and an ECB Coaching Ambassador on Frenchay Common on 17th May. Fran then had the rest of the morning coaching and talking with the children at Frenchay School, before moving on to Bromley Heath Juniors. The support from Elite will enable the Club to promote more cricket in local Schools, particularly focusing on the younger age groups at Frenchay School, as well as supporting the girls at Winterbourne International Academy.
Later in the day, a team of girls from Frenchay School took part in a ‘Kwik Cricket Festival’ involving four other primary schools at Bromley Heath.
Frenchay Girls were also involved in a little piece of history, when the U15 ‘Frenchay Flames’ took on the ‘Brislington Vipers’ at Ironmould Lane, in the first ever all girls match in the 55 years of the Bristol Youth Cricket League (pictured).
The other very significant news is that the club has teamed up with local architects, Bush Consultancy, on the development of a new pavilion, to replace our aging structure. This is a crucially important project to provide a more sustainable club into the 21st century, More news will follow as the project moves forward.
Youth contact – [email protected]
Senior contact – [email protected]
Website wwwfrenchaycc.com
Youth contact – [email protected]
Senior contact – [email protected]
Website wwwfrenchaycc.com
April 2016
After a wet winter, the ground is now really in need of dry, windy weather because if the water table stays high, the surface remains susceptible to getting boggy even after modest rain. The club is however positive about radically improving the historic drainage challenge if we can secure the Sport England grant.
The indoor season has now been completed, the U12 Girls finishing a very creditable 3rd equal, with no fewer than 17 girls having played in the five 8 a side matches. The U13 B boys have lived up to expectations, and are vying for top spot with two matches to play in the DFCA BYCL Indoor League as this is written. The U15 ’Flames’ Girls In their first venture indoors, were just pipped on bonus points for top spot in a very competitive league involving Bath, Cam and Dumbleton.
Indoor Nets have finished, and good attendances across the age groups have been reported at each venue. Hopefully April has emerged clear and bright, and outdoor training (U15 Boys/U17 Mixed every Monday 6.30 – 7.30, and the remaining Youth Groups Fridays 6.30 – 7.30) will have commenced. The ground will also soon (hopefully) be busy with matches, as youth games and senior friendlies start in mid-April.
Then on Thursday 28th April, the club host a Special Educational Needs Schools Cricket Day, part of the aim being to encourage some of the students to look to join the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket Groups (meeting each Monday 11 – 16 @ 6.15 – 7.15, and 16+ @ 7.15 – 8.15).
Also launched recently is the new Frenchay Cricket Club website www.frenchaycc.com where you will find news, fixtures, results and lots more.
Sally Donaldson,
Secretary
email: [email protected]
Youth enquiries to [email protected]
Senior enquiries to [email protected]
Frenchay Falcons enquiries to Kay Sibley [email protected]
After a wet winter, the ground is now really in need of dry, windy weather because if the water table stays high, the surface remains susceptible to getting boggy even after modest rain. The club is however positive about radically improving the historic drainage challenge if we can secure the Sport England grant.
The indoor season has now been completed, the U12 Girls finishing a very creditable 3rd equal, with no fewer than 17 girls having played in the five 8 a side matches. The U13 B boys have lived up to expectations, and are vying for top spot with two matches to play in the DFCA BYCL Indoor League as this is written. The U15 ’Flames’ Girls In their first venture indoors, were just pipped on bonus points for top spot in a very competitive league involving Bath, Cam and Dumbleton.
Indoor Nets have finished, and good attendances across the age groups have been reported at each venue. Hopefully April has emerged clear and bright, and outdoor training (U15 Boys/U17 Mixed every Monday 6.30 – 7.30, and the remaining Youth Groups Fridays 6.30 – 7.30) will have commenced. The ground will also soon (hopefully) be busy with matches, as youth games and senior friendlies start in mid-April.
Then on Thursday 28th April, the club host a Special Educational Needs Schools Cricket Day, part of the aim being to encourage some of the students to look to join the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket Groups (meeting each Monday 11 – 16 @ 6.15 – 7.15, and 16+ @ 7.15 – 8.15).
Also launched recently is the new Frenchay Cricket Club website www.frenchaycc.com where you will find news, fixtures, results and lots more.
Sally Donaldson,
Secretary
email: [email protected]
Youth enquiries to [email protected]
Senior enquiries to [email protected]
Frenchay Falcons enquiries to Kay Sibley [email protected]
March 2016
The club is delighted to confirm our application for drainage improvements to Sport England's ‘Protecting Playing Fields’ fund has
successfully passed the critical first stage. The ground has been dogged by underlying Frenchay clay and matches have frequently had to be cancelled when other grounds are fit. We can now fund a technical assessment by engineering consultants to produce a scheme to improve drainage with detailed costings, and hopefully funding to cover implementation.
Indoor nets have started for many of the senior and youth groups and details can be found on the website. In addition, four sides are continuing their indoor league matches, with lots of excitement and progress.
Plans are also in place for the coaches to continue in the schools with cricket in the summer and the young people will be seen on Frenchay Common (back to the roots of the club) in April through to June. We have highlighted the important contribution this makes in this extract from the recent Frenchay School Ofsted Report.
“Despite the restricted space on the school site, pupils have access to a wealth of extra activities which support their personal development and well-being. By using sports funding to employ specialist physical education coaches, the number of pupils now engaged in after-school clubs and activities is impressive. This has increased pupils’ involvement in local competitive sport, including individuals playing at county level.”
The club was also pleased to host ‘An Evening with the Champions’ in February when Gloucestershire head coach, Richard Dawson and David Payne brought the Royal London One Day Cup, and kindly did a question and answer session, followed by Food and a Kwik Cricket Quiz. Nearly 70 members of varying ages had the chance of seeing the cup, taking a quick ‘selfie’ and lots of fun.
Jim Donaldson
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
The club is delighted to confirm our application for drainage improvements to Sport England's ‘Protecting Playing Fields’ fund has
successfully passed the critical first stage. The ground has been dogged by underlying Frenchay clay and matches have frequently had to be cancelled when other grounds are fit. We can now fund a technical assessment by engineering consultants to produce a scheme to improve drainage with detailed costings, and hopefully funding to cover implementation.
Indoor nets have started for many of the senior and youth groups and details can be found on the website. In addition, four sides are continuing their indoor league matches, with lots of excitement and progress.
Plans are also in place for the coaches to continue in the schools with cricket in the summer and the young people will be seen on Frenchay Common (back to the roots of the club) in April through to June. We have highlighted the important contribution this makes in this extract from the recent Frenchay School Ofsted Report.
“Despite the restricted space on the school site, pupils have access to a wealth of extra activities which support their personal development and well-being. By using sports funding to employ specialist physical education coaches, the number of pupils now engaged in after-school clubs and activities is impressive. This has increased pupils’ involvement in local competitive sport, including individuals playing at county level.”
The club was also pleased to host ‘An Evening with the Champions’ in February when Gloucestershire head coach, Richard Dawson and David Payne brought the Royal London One Day Cup, and kindly did a question and answer session, followed by Food and a Kwik Cricket Quiz. Nearly 70 members of varying ages had the chance of seeing the cup, taking a quick ‘selfie’ and lots of fun.
Jim Donaldson
www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
February 2016
The nights are now drawing out, so the new outdoor season edges closer. Hopefully, the rain will have abated, and some drier weather will have helped the ground to become less soggy.
February will see the various youth teams starting indoor net practice, and several continuing in their respective indoor league competitions. It will also be the time when four of our older girls, Emily Wilkins, Emily Locke, Naima Milhofer and Nat Wraith, jet off to Sri Lanka in a party of young Gloucestershire players for a cricketing (and life) experience among the cricket mad communities of that Island.
LOOKING FOR SUPPORT WITH OUR WORK IN THE LOCAL SCHOOLS FROM A LOCAL BUSINESS
We are looking to build on our National ChanceToShine Project of the Year Award 2015 in the local schools, but our funding from Gloucestershire has been reduced for 2016.
In a sense, we are victims of our own success, because Gloucestershire (understandably) want to encourage more clubs to follow our example. They have therefore encouraged clubs across the county to get involved in this incredibly fruitful scheme, which has therefore reduced our slice of the cake. This will mean that we will have to reduce the amount of work we can do in our five link Schools (Frenchay C of E, Bromley Heath Juniors, St Augustine’s RC, Winterbourne International (Girls) and Culverhill SEN Yate), unless we can secure some sponsorship, maybe from a local company.
If your son or daughter has enjoyed cricket on the common, or you have seen the children having fun, and would like to support this, please get in touch with Jim Donaldson, the club’s ChanceToShine Manager ([email protected] or 07771502274), and he will be pleased to have a chat with you about the scheme.
Sally Donaldson
club website: www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
The nights are now drawing out, so the new outdoor season edges closer. Hopefully, the rain will have abated, and some drier weather will have helped the ground to become less soggy.
February will see the various youth teams starting indoor net practice, and several continuing in their respective indoor league competitions. It will also be the time when four of our older girls, Emily Wilkins, Emily Locke, Naima Milhofer and Nat Wraith, jet off to Sri Lanka in a party of young Gloucestershire players for a cricketing (and life) experience among the cricket mad communities of that Island.
LOOKING FOR SUPPORT WITH OUR WORK IN THE LOCAL SCHOOLS FROM A LOCAL BUSINESS
We are looking to build on our National ChanceToShine Project of the Year Award 2015 in the local schools, but our funding from Gloucestershire has been reduced for 2016.
In a sense, we are victims of our own success, because Gloucestershire (understandably) want to encourage more clubs to follow our example. They have therefore encouraged clubs across the county to get involved in this incredibly fruitful scheme, which has therefore reduced our slice of the cake. This will mean that we will have to reduce the amount of work we can do in our five link Schools (Frenchay C of E, Bromley Heath Juniors, St Augustine’s RC, Winterbourne International (Girls) and Culverhill SEN Yate), unless we can secure some sponsorship, maybe from a local company.
If your son or daughter has enjoyed cricket on the common, or you have seen the children having fun, and would like to support this, please get in touch with Jim Donaldson, the club’s ChanceToShine Manager ([email protected] or 07771502274), and he will be pleased to have a chat with you about the scheme.
Sally Donaldson
club website: www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
January 2016
We might have had a fairly dry summer, but the weather has made up for it during November and December, and if the ground needed water, it has certainly has got it now!
We have more achievements to record for our young players. U15’s Naima Milhofer and Natasha Wraith have been invited to continue with the Gloucestershire Emerging Players Programme (EPP), which is at the top end of the County Performance Programme. It is excellent that Maisie Hunkin has been invited onto the new Sub EPP Programme.
The autumn series of indoor leagues has now finished, and the seniors didn’t do so well this year, not qualifying for the play offs. However, two young teams have been competing weekly in the indoor BYCL DFCA U12 League at the County Ground. The younger side, Frenchay B’s, have performed creditably in their very first experience of indoor cricket, and this should stand them in good stead for the next series of matches beginning at the same venue in January.
We might have had a fairly dry summer, but the weather has made up for it during November and December, and if the ground needed water, it has certainly has got it now!
We have more achievements to record for our young players. U15’s Naima Milhofer and Natasha Wraith have been invited to continue with the Gloucestershire Emerging Players Programme (EPP), which is at the top end of the County Performance Programme. It is excellent that Maisie Hunkin has been invited onto the new Sub EPP Programme.
The autumn series of indoor leagues has now finished, and the seniors didn’t do so well this year, not qualifying for the play offs. However, two young teams have been competing weekly in the indoor BYCL DFCA U12 League at the County Ground. The younger side, Frenchay B’s, have performed creditably in their very first experience of indoor cricket, and this should stand them in good stead for the next series of matches beginning at the same venue in January.
However, pride of place must go to the U12 Frenchay A side, who won the league, losing just one match in the process. Harvey Marshall’s team (pictured) received the trophy from Chris Dent, Gloucestershire opening batsman. They are also looking forward to defending their title in the new year.
The U15 Girls are involved in a new indoor league based in Whitchurch, and a very young side completed their first round of matches recently against teams from Bath, Cam and Dumbleton. Further rounds of matches take place into the new year on Saturdays. The U11/12 girls also embark on the new adventure of indoor cricket, playing sides from Bristol Phoenix, Cam, Charlton Kings, Dumbleton and Frampton/Frocester, at Castle School Thornbury on Sunday afternoons from mid-January through February.
Sally Donaldson
[email protected] or website www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
The U15 Girls are involved in a new indoor league based in Whitchurch, and a very young side completed their first round of matches recently against teams from Bath, Cam and Dumbleton. Further rounds of matches take place into the new year on Saturdays. The U11/12 girls also embark on the new adventure of indoor cricket, playing sides from Bristol Phoenix, Cam, Charlton Kings, Dumbleton and Frampton/Frocester, at Castle School Thornbury on Sunday afternoons from mid-January through February.
Sally Donaldson
[email protected] or website www.frenchay.play-cricket.com
December 2015
It may be ‘out of season', but there is still lots going on which definitely keeps us busy twelve months of the year!
Pride of place was the announcement at the annual national ChanceToShine Awards ceremony in London, where Frenchay was named, Project of the Year. This was for our work with the primary schools (Frenchay C of E, Bromley Heath Juniors and St Augustine’s Downend), with the girls at Winterbourne International Academy and with the students at Culverhill Special Educational Needs School, Yate.
Our work coaching cricket in the local schools has been central to the continuing development of the girls groups at the club, with 63 girls registered last year from U7 through to U17’s, and with the continuing progress of the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket Groups. We are now working on the programme involving the schools for 2016.
It may be ‘out of season', but there is still lots going on which definitely keeps us busy twelve months of the year!
Pride of place was the announcement at the annual national ChanceToShine Awards ceremony in London, where Frenchay was named, Project of the Year. This was for our work with the primary schools (Frenchay C of E, Bromley Heath Juniors and St Augustine’s Downend), with the girls at Winterbourne International Academy and with the students at Culverhill Special Educational Needs School, Yate.
Our work coaching cricket in the local schools has been central to the continuing development of the girls groups at the club, with 63 girls registered last year from U7 through to U17’s, and with the continuing progress of the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket Groups. We are now working on the programme involving the schools for 2016.
Pictured are Jim Donaldson, the Club’s ChanceToShine Project Manager, receiving the Award from England Women’s Internationals Tammy Beaumont (left) and Kate Cross.
A considerable number of our young players are also making their mark at a higher level, with sixteen invited to attend the Gloucestershire Winter Training programmes in the new year. Congratulations go to Finlay Mills, Lewis Moss, Luke Wilcox (U10 District), Izzy Patel, Evie Patterson (U11 County), Joe Moss, Sonny Reynolds (U12 District), Molly Bliss, Lily Knox, Amy Patterson (U13 County), Katie Padfield (U13 Development), Ellen Harris, Natasha Wraith, Naima Milhofer (U15 County), Emily Locke and Emily Wilkins (U17 County), with another two girls trialling later. Lots and lots of hard work to come yet!
The club, with very encouraging support from the wider community, has now made an application to Sport England to improve the ground drainage. The underlying ‘Frenchay clay’ often causes waterlogging in times of poorer weather, and we await the outcome.
Contact: Sally Donaldson at [email protected] or visit our website.
October 2015
A record season! The first in living memory when every 1st Xl match was played and none were cancelled or abandoned through rain. The 18 match schedule runs over consecutive Saturdays from May to August, plus two pre-season matches in April. A phenomenal season for matches, is the only way to describe the experience.
On the field, the 1st Xl won 9 and lost 9 in the new experience of playing some well-matched teams from Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, including having some really nail biting finishes.
The 2nd Xl also had a ‘won 8, lost 8’ record in their travels into Gloucestershire, but did lose 2 matches to the weather.
The 3rd Xl blooded lots of young players and finished in a credible position in their league.
2016 sees the restructuring of the senior leagues to reduce travel distances. The 1st Xl come back to the Bristol area in the third tier of the West of England Premier League, while the 2nd Xl return to the Bristol and District League, with the 3rd’s continuing in the extended Bristol and District League.
The ground will now be put to bed for the winter, but lots of cricket still goes on, with the seniors, boys, and girls entering teams in indoor leagues. We also intend to build on the series of Women’s Taster sessions held in August at the Club. Please get in touch if the idea of playing (starter) women’s cricket appeals to you.
Contact Sally Donaldson [email protected] or visit www.Frenchay.play-cricket.com
A record season! The first in living memory when every 1st Xl match was played and none were cancelled or abandoned through rain. The 18 match schedule runs over consecutive Saturdays from May to August, plus two pre-season matches in April. A phenomenal season for matches, is the only way to describe the experience.
On the field, the 1st Xl won 9 and lost 9 in the new experience of playing some well-matched teams from Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, including having some really nail biting finishes.
The 2nd Xl also had a ‘won 8, lost 8’ record in their travels into Gloucestershire, but did lose 2 matches to the weather.
The 3rd Xl blooded lots of young players and finished in a credible position in their league.
2016 sees the restructuring of the senior leagues to reduce travel distances. The 1st Xl come back to the Bristol area in the third tier of the West of England Premier League, while the 2nd Xl return to the Bristol and District League, with the 3rd’s continuing in the extended Bristol and District League.
The ground will now be put to bed for the winter, but lots of cricket still goes on, with the seniors, boys, and girls entering teams in indoor leagues. We also intend to build on the series of Women’s Taster sessions held in August at the Club. Please get in touch if the idea of playing (starter) women’s cricket appeals to you.
Contact Sally Donaldson [email protected] or visit www.Frenchay.play-cricket.com
September 2015
Another cricket season is gradually drawing towards it conclusion. Where has the time gone? But generally the weather has been kind, and (as at early August), all fourteen Saturday league matches were played, which is phenomenal.
On the field, the 1st Xl continue their mixed season, the 2nds are challenging towards the top of the table, and the 3rds and Sunday teams have recorded mixed fortunes.
Another cricket season is gradually drawing towards it conclusion. Where has the time gone? But generally the weather has been kind, and (as at early August), all fourteen Saturday league matches were played, which is phenomenal.
On the field, the 1st Xl continue their mixed season, the 2nds are challenging towards the top of the table, and the 3rds and Sunday teams have recorded mixed fortunes.
The U11 A team concluded a successful season by winning the Dave McCarthy KO Cup in a close win over Hanham. (See picture)
The U11 Girls continued on their learning curve with an appearance in front of 3,000 people at the County Ground during the interval of the Gloucestershire v Somerset match. The girls (and families) loved the experience, and lost narrowly in the final of the new ECB Gilbert Cup competition.
Looking towards next season, a considerable number of our young players have been nominated for performance trials with Gloucestershire at various age groups, and we look forward to hearing about their progress. In another accolade for our youngsters, Emily Wilkins, Naima Milhofer and Natasha Wraith have all been invited to tour Sri Lanka early in 2016 with a select party of Gloucestershire women and girls. It will be a cricketing experience of a lifetime.
Frenchay hosted a very successful Women’s Taster Day in early August with support from the English and Gloucestershire Cricket Boards. We are setting up some practice sessions for some very keen players and looking to start a women’s team in 2016. Any women interested in having some fun trying cricket, please contact Sally Donaldson 07721301038 or [email protected]
Great progress also for the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket groups, with players representing Gloucestershire, who had an inaugural match with Frocester. Richard Hill, ECB Disability Officer was in attendance.
The U11 Girls continued on their learning curve with an appearance in front of 3,000 people at the County Ground during the interval of the Gloucestershire v Somerset match. The girls (and families) loved the experience, and lost narrowly in the final of the new ECB Gilbert Cup competition.
Looking towards next season, a considerable number of our young players have been nominated for performance trials with Gloucestershire at various age groups, and we look forward to hearing about their progress. In another accolade for our youngsters, Emily Wilkins, Naima Milhofer and Natasha Wraith have all been invited to tour Sri Lanka early in 2016 with a select party of Gloucestershire women and girls. It will be a cricketing experience of a lifetime.
Frenchay hosted a very successful Women’s Taster Day in early August with support from the English and Gloucestershire Cricket Boards. We are setting up some practice sessions for some very keen players and looking to start a women’s team in 2016. Any women interested in having some fun trying cricket, please contact Sally Donaldson 07721301038 or [email protected]
Great progress also for the Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket groups, with players representing Gloucestershire, who had an inaugural match with Frocester. Richard Hill, ECB Disability Officer was in attendance.
Frenchay U11 Girls. Lady Taverners County Champions, Back Row Jim (Coach), Lilia, Cara, Lily, Isobel, Erin and Isabella, Front Row Evie, Lily, Molly, Summer and Rachel
July 2015
June was really busy at the Cricket Club, with the regular league fixtures supplemented as the club hosted 19 mixed teams, closely followed by 12 girls teams from the primary schools in the wider area, in Kwik cricket tournaments. These were then followed by competitions involving Years 7 & 8, and Years 9 & 10 girls from the South Gloucestershire and Bristol senior schools. The Gloucestershire Cricket Board organise these, and it is a delight to see the ground regularly filled with young people from the wider community.
Additionally, the Bob Stone Ground was pleased to welcome former UK Champion and World No 4 Greg Rusedski on 14th June, when he formally opened the new courts complex for the Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club. The Courts are increasingly busy with coaching and matches on a daily basis.
The season has gone reasonably well for the senior teams, with both the 1st’s and 2nd’s sharing mixed fortunes in their new ventures into the depths of Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. The 3rd’s and the Sunday Xl have had challenging times more locally, and generally the youth teams have fared similarly.
However, the U11 ‘A’ boys are progressing well at their age group, and the U11 girls were crowned Gloucestershire champions early in the month in the Lady Taverners national nompetition at Cam. The latter is a particular reflection of the success of the Frenchay ChanceToShine cricket coaching programme in local primary Schools, as the squad involved nine girls directly from those activities, including Erin, Summer and Molly from Frenchay School.
The Team will now play at the ECB South and West Regional Finals, which will be held at Frenchay on Monday 27th July. Fantastic, girls! A reward for a lot of enthusiastic, hard work. Well done!
June was really busy at the Cricket Club, with the regular league fixtures supplemented as the club hosted 19 mixed teams, closely followed by 12 girls teams from the primary schools in the wider area, in Kwik cricket tournaments. These were then followed by competitions involving Years 7 & 8, and Years 9 & 10 girls from the South Gloucestershire and Bristol senior schools. The Gloucestershire Cricket Board organise these, and it is a delight to see the ground regularly filled with young people from the wider community.
Additionally, the Bob Stone Ground was pleased to welcome former UK Champion and World No 4 Greg Rusedski on 14th June, when he formally opened the new courts complex for the Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club. The Courts are increasingly busy with coaching and matches on a daily basis.
The season has gone reasonably well for the senior teams, with both the 1st’s and 2nd’s sharing mixed fortunes in their new ventures into the depths of Gloucestershire and Wiltshire. The 3rd’s and the Sunday Xl have had challenging times more locally, and generally the youth teams have fared similarly.
However, the U11 ‘A’ boys are progressing well at their age group, and the U11 girls were crowned Gloucestershire champions early in the month in the Lady Taverners national nompetition at Cam. The latter is a particular reflection of the success of the Frenchay ChanceToShine cricket coaching programme in local primary Schools, as the squad involved nine girls directly from those activities, including Erin, Summer and Molly from Frenchay School.
The Team will now play at the ECB South and West Regional Finals, which will be held at Frenchay on Monday 27th July. Fantastic, girls! A reward for a lot of enthusiastic, hard work. Well done!
June 2015
As often happens, the weather changed once the Senior League season started in May, and the wind was so strong it turned one of the heavy sightscreens over, partly blocking the access drive to the clubhouse!
The new, smart wicket covers have arrived, thanks to a grant from the ECB Cricket Trust and support from KMC Mortgage Solutions, plus a new scoreboard for the Top Pitch to go with the recently opened new scorebox, supported by a South Gloucestershire Council Community Grant.
On the field, the 1st Xl have started with mixed fortunes, as have the 2nds on their travels into previously untried areas of Gloucestershire. The 3rds have had a promising start, but the 4th’s have suffered from early season availability issues. The youth teams have all be busy and Friday ‘Youth Training’ evenings at the club have been ‘buzzing’. These have been assisted by our coaching in the local schools, with more children from Frenchay School taking up cricket, which is fantastic.
Frenchay Falcons, in conjunction with the Gloucestershire Cricket Board, hosted a busy and lively day for special educational needs schools, when 70 children came along to enjoy cricket. The weather on the day was kind to us, and the event was encompassed with lots of laughter, fun, and learning, with individual achievement at all levels.
The tennis courts are now in use, officially opened by Paul Hutchins, former GB Captain on 17th May. Looking ahead, the LTA have arranged for Greg Rusedski, former UK No 1 and No 4 in the world rankings, to visit Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club’s new HQ on Sunday morning 14th June, for another formal ceremony. It is an impressive new facility and we are looking forward to many years of cricket and tennis at the Bob Stone Ground.
As often happens, the weather changed once the Senior League season started in May, and the wind was so strong it turned one of the heavy sightscreens over, partly blocking the access drive to the clubhouse!
The new, smart wicket covers have arrived, thanks to a grant from the ECB Cricket Trust and support from KMC Mortgage Solutions, plus a new scoreboard for the Top Pitch to go with the recently opened new scorebox, supported by a South Gloucestershire Council Community Grant.
On the field, the 1st Xl have started with mixed fortunes, as have the 2nds on their travels into previously untried areas of Gloucestershire. The 3rds have had a promising start, but the 4th’s have suffered from early season availability issues. The youth teams have all be busy and Friday ‘Youth Training’ evenings at the club have been ‘buzzing’. These have been assisted by our coaching in the local schools, with more children from Frenchay School taking up cricket, which is fantastic.
Frenchay Falcons, in conjunction with the Gloucestershire Cricket Board, hosted a busy and lively day for special educational needs schools, when 70 children came along to enjoy cricket. The weather on the day was kind to us, and the event was encompassed with lots of laughter, fun, and learning, with individual achievement at all levels.
The tennis courts are now in use, officially opened by Paul Hutchins, former GB Captain on 17th May. Looking ahead, the LTA have arranged for Greg Rusedski, former UK No 1 and No 4 in the world rankings, to visit Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club’s new HQ on Sunday morning 14th June, for another formal ceremony. It is an impressive new facility and we are looking forward to many years of cricket and tennis at the Bob Stone Ground.
May 2015
Another season running, and hopefully the weather is staying bright and dry, with lots of matches played. Visit our website and click on ‘Matches’, then ‘Fixtures’ to find out who is playing, where and when, from the Under 11’s through to the 1st Xl. The results can be found via the same source, just click on ‘Results’ rather than ‘Fixtures’.
The Club is extremely grateful to the English Cricket Board and the Gloucestershire Cricket Board for their support in securing an ‘ECB Small Grant’ exceeding £3500 to purchase a new set of ‘Mobile Wicket Covers’. These three lightweight structures are used to protect the playing wicket from the rain.
Additionally we are also very grateful to Nigel Croucher of KMC Mortgage Solutions for sponsoring the new covers. These are now in use protecting pitches on the Main Square.
The Top Square has also had something of a makeover with both the Southern Brooks and The Chase area forums of South Gloucestershire Council supporting our Community Grant applications. Firstly to help refurbish the existing, ageing set of mobile wicket covers, which have now been transferred to protect wickets on the Top Square. Secondly, the new scorebox/store is now in place, having been kept in store by our suppliers until the new site was available.
Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club expect to formally open the new Floodlight Tennis Courts in mid-May, and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.
Thank you to our local Councillors (Frenchay/Stoke Park, Winterbourne, and Downend/Bromley Heath) for their continuing support. The overall result is excellent, with more people playing more cricket.
Lastly, please note that Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Groups (U16 & Over 16’s) meet every Monday evening. Details form Kay Sibley at [email protected]
Another season running, and hopefully the weather is staying bright and dry, with lots of matches played. Visit our website and click on ‘Matches’, then ‘Fixtures’ to find out who is playing, where and when, from the Under 11’s through to the 1st Xl. The results can be found via the same source, just click on ‘Results’ rather than ‘Fixtures’.
The Club is extremely grateful to the English Cricket Board and the Gloucestershire Cricket Board for their support in securing an ‘ECB Small Grant’ exceeding £3500 to purchase a new set of ‘Mobile Wicket Covers’. These three lightweight structures are used to protect the playing wicket from the rain.
Additionally we are also very grateful to Nigel Croucher of KMC Mortgage Solutions for sponsoring the new covers. These are now in use protecting pitches on the Main Square.
The Top Square has also had something of a makeover with both the Southern Brooks and The Chase area forums of South Gloucestershire Council supporting our Community Grant applications. Firstly to help refurbish the existing, ageing set of mobile wicket covers, which have now been transferred to protect wickets on the Top Square. Secondly, the new scorebox/store is now in place, having been kept in store by our suppliers until the new site was available.
Downend and Frenchay Tennis Club expect to formally open the new Floodlight Tennis Courts in mid-May, and we look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.
Thank you to our local Councillors (Frenchay/Stoke Park, Winterbourne, and Downend/Bromley Heath) for their continuing support. The overall result is excellent, with more people playing more cricket.
Lastly, please note that Frenchay Falcons Disability Cricket Groups (U16 & Over 16’s) meet every Monday evening. Details form Kay Sibley at [email protected]
April 2015
While writing this, we are hoping for a very dry (and windy) March and early April, because the Cricket Ground is still very damp following the autumn rain and winter ‘freezes’. The four new Tennis Courts are nearing completion, and there is a considerable amount of reinstatement now required to areas of the outfields, before the start of the cricket season after Easter.
All of the Senior and Youth Squads have been busy at various locations with pre-season training, and four Adult Members have taken the ECB Coach Education Level Two Course over the winter, to further strengthen the Club’s coaching base. Several older Youth Players are also set to take their ‘ECB Coach Support Worker’ badge in mid-April.
Youth Training (6.30 – 7.30) begins after Easter - Mondays for the U15’s and U17’s, and Fridays for U7’s (mixed), U9’s (Mixed), U11 Boys and Girls, U13 Boys and Girls, and U15 Girls. Enquiries to Sue Brees 01179657714 or [email protected]
The Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket (Mixed) Groups begin outdoor coaching on Monday evening 13th April at the Club (11 – 16 age group 6.30 – 7.30 and 16+ age group 7.30 – 8.30) and will continue at these time through the summer. Coaching will be run by a fully qualified Coach with appropriate clearance. Enquiries to Kay Sibley 07519735037 or [email protected]
The Club is looking to run five ‘senior’ Teams (4 on Saturdays and 1 Sundays), and new players are always welcome – contact Mike Donaldson 07836374043 or [email protected]
The Club is also delighted to have agreed to run ten weeks of cricket coaching for the older Classes at Frenchay C of E School starting after Easter, so look out for Tyrone and the Children (and Teachers) on The Common on a Thursday afternoon.
The new season beckons – hoping for a long dry summer!
While writing this, we are hoping for a very dry (and windy) March and early April, because the Cricket Ground is still very damp following the autumn rain and winter ‘freezes’. The four new Tennis Courts are nearing completion, and there is a considerable amount of reinstatement now required to areas of the outfields, before the start of the cricket season after Easter.
All of the Senior and Youth Squads have been busy at various locations with pre-season training, and four Adult Members have taken the ECB Coach Education Level Two Course over the winter, to further strengthen the Club’s coaching base. Several older Youth Players are also set to take their ‘ECB Coach Support Worker’ badge in mid-April.
Youth Training (6.30 – 7.30) begins after Easter - Mondays for the U15’s and U17’s, and Fridays for U7’s (mixed), U9’s (Mixed), U11 Boys and Girls, U13 Boys and Girls, and U15 Girls. Enquiries to Sue Brees 01179657714 or [email protected]
The Frenchay Falcons Ability Cricket (Mixed) Groups begin outdoor coaching on Monday evening 13th April at the Club (11 – 16 age group 6.30 – 7.30 and 16+ age group 7.30 – 8.30) and will continue at these time through the summer. Coaching will be run by a fully qualified Coach with appropriate clearance. Enquiries to Kay Sibley 07519735037 or [email protected]
The Club is looking to run five ‘senior’ Teams (4 on Saturdays and 1 Sundays), and new players are always welcome – contact Mike Donaldson 07836374043 or [email protected]
The Club is also delighted to have agreed to run ten weeks of cricket coaching for the older Classes at Frenchay C of E School starting after Easter, so look out for Tyrone and the Children (and Teachers) on The Common on a Thursday afternoon.
The new season beckons – hoping for a long dry summer!
