Hampshire Cricket Board Hosts Annual Hawks Fest at Wellington Sports Centre

The annual celebration of the outstanding individuals, clubs, and organisations who power recreational cricket across the country.

On Monday 4 August, the Hampshire Cricket Board welcomed 141 young participants from across its urban programmes - Lord’s Taverners Wicketz, Chance to Shine Street, and the MCC Foundation - to Wellington Sports Centre for the annual Hawks Fest.

The festival featured four separate competitions: Senior Hardball, Development Hardball, Tapeball, and Softball. Despite drizzle throughout the day, the cricket went ahead with players displaying impressive skills and enjoying every moment. Smiles, laughter, and sportsmanship were in abundance as participants refused to let the weather dampen their spirits.

A key feature of the day was the support from partner organisations delivering life-skill workshops, fun activities, and specialist advice.

  • Sport in Mind worked with the Development Hardball group, highlighting the link between physical activity and positive mental health.
  • Solent Mind engaged the Softball participants in well-being activities, including creating a “wellbeing tree” filled with personal feel-good strategies.
  • Pompey in the Community offered off-pitch activities such as archery, giving players a fun challenge during their breaks.
  • Chase Cricket shared their knowledge on cricket equipment with some of the more experienced Hardball players.

Hampshire Men’s players Kyle Abbott and Keith Barker, along with Hampshire Women’s player Daisy Mullan, were in attendance to enjoy the action and engage with participants.

“Hawks Fest is all about bringing young people together through cricket, no matter their background or experience. The energy, resilience, and determination we saw — even in the rain — is a testament to the positive impact sport can have on individuals and communities. We’re excited to continue growing Hawks Fest in the future and making it an even bigger and better celebration of cricket for everyone.”

Dani Ransley, Wicketz Development Officer

Lunch was equally memorable, with a choice of pizza or homemade curry and rice, once again wonderfully prepared by two members of the local community.

Unfortunately, the weather eventually forced an early close, but the day ended on a high note with a short presentation and giveaways to recognise outstanding individual performances.

Hawks Fest once again showcased the outstanding work happening in Hampshire’s urban areas, highlighting our ongoing mission to make cricket accessible for everyone.

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