Volunteer of the Month: Celebrating Exceptional Contributions to Cricket

Honouring the unsung heroes who go above and beyond to grow the game across Hampshire

Hampshire Cricket Board is thrilled to announce the nominees for our Volunteer of the Month, showcasing the incredible contributions made by individuals who help strengthen and support cricket in our community. This month’s selection is a testament to the outstanding dedication of our volunteers across the county.

Winner: Sarah Williams (Bishop's Waltham Cricket Club)

Sarah is a driving force behind cricket at Bishop's Waltham, serving tirelessly as Club Chair and supporting all aspects of the club. From safeguarding compliance to liaising with the Parish Council and guiding the Executive Committee, her commitment is unwavering. But her work forming and growing the ladies' team truly stands out. What began as a taster session has grown into regular training, friendly matches, and now a team competing in the W10 softball league. Through her leadership, Sarah has created new opportunities for women and helped the club grow into a more inclusive, family-oriented space. Her passion reflects the true spirit of grassroots cricket.

Highly Commended: Sam Fielder (Ampfield & North Baddesley Cricket Club)

Sam is the backbone of ANBCC, dedicating over 30 hours a week to the club — not including playing. He built a clubhouse shed with a bar, stocks supplies for All Stars, colts, and socials, and maintains the ground year-round. From mowing and seeding to organising presentation evenings and 7s tournaments, Sam is involved in everything. He’s the first to arrive, the last to leave, and the go-to person for advice and support. Come rain or shine, he’s there making things happen. Ask anyone at ANBCC who deserves recognition — they’ll all say Sam. He gives his heart and soul.

Highly Commended: Gary Steward (Burridge Cricket Club)

Gary is a key part of Burridge Cricket Club, serving as Safeguarding Lead and always going the extra mile. This season, he stepped in to coach and manage both their U9B and U11B teams — without him, those games wouldn’t have gone ahead. Whether it’s helping at the ground, behind the bar, or on the field, Gary is always willing to volunteer. He and his wife also hosted Burridge's overseas player, offering a welcoming home. Reliable, selfless, and committed, Gary puts the club first. Burridge are truly grateful for everything he does and the difference he makes.


June 2025 Nominees:
We are also delighted to recognise the following individuals who were nominated for their outstanding contributions this month:

  • Sue Breckon (Bournemouth Cricket Club) - Sue has dedicated countless hours to tea preparation, cleaning, and bar work in support of the club.
  • Martin Skilton (Medstead Cricket Club) - Martin works tirelessly as head groundsman at two clubs, dedicating countless early mornings and late nights to preparing top-quality pitches - often for matches at both grounds on the same day - earning soaring ground marks and the gratitude of all who benefit from his selfless commitment.
  • Steve Wheeler (Hungerford Cricket Club) - Steve has dedicated countless hours as head groundsman, overcoming challenges like extreme dryness and knowledge gaps to transform the pitches, demonstrating immense commitment to the club and its ground.
  • Katie Stares (Portchester Cricket Club) - Katie plays a vital role in coordinating, organising, and coaching the women’s, youth, and disability teams, offering invaluable continuity and serving as a trusted, friendly presence for players, parents, and club leadership alike.
  • Dan Yarnley (Petersfield Cricket Club) - Dan, who has coached and managed the U13 girls since their U9 days, selflessly stepped up to also lead the U9 boys team following the loss of a fellow coach, going above and beyond to ensure every age group continues to enjoy cricket - an extraordinary commitment.
  • Peter Piercy (United Services Portsmouth Cricket Club) - Peter has relentlessly and quietly kept the club running behind the scenes, making it effortless for others to simply turn up and play - without him, the club simply wouldn’t exist.
  • Glyn White (Burridge Cricket Club) - Glyn is the unsung hero of Burridge Cricket Club - an invaluable committee member who quietly takes on vital behind-the-scenes tasks, cooks the Friday BBQ, mentors young players in the 5th team, and helps ensure the club runs smoothly week in, week out.

We encourage everyone in the Hampshire cricketing community to celebrate the hard work and enthusiasm of these volunteers, who make a huge difference to the success of our clubs and the enjoyment of players.

Thank you to all our nominees, and to the thousands of volunteers across Hampshire who make cricket the wonderful game it is.

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