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Hampshire Cricket Board Wins Delivery Partner of the Year for Second Consecutive Year
Hampshire Cricket Board Wins Delivery Partner of the Year for Second Consecutive Year
Hampshire Cricket Board honours 250 volunteers and 236 nominations across 15 categories at the annual celebration event
For the second year running, Hampshire Cricket Board (HCB) has been named Delivery Partner of the Year at the Chance to Shine Awards, held at Lord’s Cricket Ground. This consecutive win marks a historic achievement for the organisation and recognises HCB’s continued dedication to growing grassroots cricket across the county.
The award formed part of Chance to Shine’s annual celebration of outstanding impact nationwide. In its 20th Year, Chance to Shine is committed to giving all children the opportunity to play cricket and acknowledged HCB once again for its exceptional delivery across both school and community settings. Their recognition highlights the Board’s ongoing efforts to reach more young people, particularly in areas where cricket is not traditionally played.
Throughout the 2024/25 academic year, HCB built on the success of the previous year by expanding its reach and deepening its impact. Over 21,000 primary school pupils were introduced to cricket through Chance to Shine lessons, whilst the secondary Girls Chance to Compete competition saw the largest number of team entries on record, and a double win for Hampshire schools in the regional final.
Beyond the classroom, HCB sustained its commitment to community cricket through its six Chance to Shine Street clubs. Operating in some of the county’s most disadvantaged areas, these clubs offer a fast, exciting and inclusive format that doesn’t require expensive equipment and can be played almost anywhere. Strengthening pathways between school delivery, community cricket and the talent pathway remains a key priority, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to stay involved in the game.
“To be named Delivery Partner of the Year at the Chance to Shine Awards for the second consecutive year is truly amazing. As the first organisation to receive this honour twice, and to achieve it back-to-back, reflects the significant impact our team continue to make across the county. Over the past year, we have broadened our reach, engaged more children and ensured that cricket is accessible to as many young people as possible. Our commitment to delivering high-quality, meaningful programmes remains central to everything we do and I cannot wait to see what the team achieve next.”
Emily Munro, Cricket Operations Manager
HCB credits this remarkable back-to-back achievement to the dedication, expertise and enthusiasm of its community and casual coaches. Their commitment to providing high-quality, inclusive experiences continues to drive participation and inspire a new generation of young cricketers across Hampshire.
“I am incredibly proud of our team for being named Chance to Shine’s Delivery Partner of the Year once again. From those delivering sessions on the ground to the colleagues who support our work behind the scenes, it is a huge team effort to retain this award. It is a testament to their hard work and passion and I look forward to seeing what the team can achieve in 2026”.
Ben Thompson, Cricket Development Director
With a second consecutive award secured, HCB remains focused on further expanding its reach and impact in the year ahead, continuing to ensure that cricket is a sport accessible to all.
