It is an excellent venue and a great chance for cricketers to get together pre-season.
Traditionally the dinner circuit is held post-season and inevitably it ends up too much of the same as dinner after dinner plays havoc with other commitments and it is impossible to go to them all. There was a time when the Union dinners were almost obligatory appearances, as the evenings were full of entertainment and of course, the season’s major awards were made, and the winners were always in attendance. Bragging rights were hard-earned and this was their platform to enjoy the rewards of sporting labour. Union dinners and club dinners also gave players and officials an opportunity to mix socially away from the heat of competition and the goodwill generated has created friendships and bonds that last longer than the memories of easily forgotten results.
Much of the glitz has disappeared over the years and for a variety of reasons both unions and clubs struggle to get the numbers they deserve. Perhaps it is only when you get older that you fully appreciate the value of the social side of cricket, but quite often by that time it is too late. I’m told cost is the main factor, but this has to be a joke. When I see the cost of cricket equipment and the amount of money spent in the bar I have to question the merit of that excuse. When all is said and done everyone has options, and if going to a cricket dinner is well down the batting order then times have changed.
The local cricket season is getting shorter and shorter, but the Internet and club websites allows everyone to keep in closer contact with the game than in former years. The Woodvale Sixes also brightens the winter gloom, but unfortunately not enough clubs enter. Indeed, many clubs hibernate during the winter. The same could not be said for our umpires! If there is one cricketing body that operates 12 months every year then it is the NIACUS. You only have to be on their mailing list to appreciate the huge volume of work put in by the umpires to improve their knowledge, their skills and their camaraderie.
Quality not quantity is the buzzword with umpires these days as numbers decline and less former players don the White (or Blue) coat. But what a missed opportunity as our top officials now stand at games all over the world. Indeed there could be a better career umpiring than playing if that is your choice as age or sex is no barrier. Also our game would be nothing without them, and for that reason alone they deserve our respect on and off the field. I doubt if any club has had as many characters down the years, and “love them or hate them” they have given the game Trojan service.
Alan Neil and Jonathan Lyttle are the men at the helm these days with Peter Lunney President. Jonathan has been trying to drum up support for next week’s dinner and I ask clubs and individuals to give them the support they deserve. What a wonderful opportunity to get members together pre-season and mix in the company of the officials who give so much of their time and energy to promoting and developing cricket. The great Kyle McCallan and the “Grate” Andy Kennedy will provide the entertainment and there are few better in their respective roles. It promises to be an excellent night so get behind the wheel and support this dinner.
I only wish I had the opportunity.
Clarence Hiles
Editor
