Over 450 local clubs benefit from players' investment in year one of Grassroots Cricket Fund
28 June, 2019
Over $1.8 million from Australia’s professional cricketers was invested into facilities and equipment grants in season 2018/19, via the Grassroots Cricket Fund.
469 community cricket clubs benefited from the opening year of the funding.
$1 million from the players contributed to 140 playing and training facility projects benefiting players and clubs around Australia, while 329 regional and drought affected clubs received a $2,500 equipment grant.
The equipment grants will be used to purchase essential club items such as stumps, balls, helmets, outdoor shading, barbeques and technology to help in the day-to-day operations of the community cricket clubs.
In February this year, the players in conjunction with Cricket Australia and the Australian Cricketers’ Association launched the Grassroots Cricket Fund at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, pledging up to $30 million into grassroots infrastructure and equipment over the next five years.
Over $1.8 million from Australia’s professional cricketers was invested into facilities and equipment grants in season 2018/19, via the Grassroots Cricket Fund.
Fund ambassador and Australian cricketer, Josh Hazlewood said:
“I’m really proud of the players’ investment back into the game and the community.
“While this investment will be spread across the next five years, already after year one we have seen a hugely positive impact.
“We’re really passionate about giving back to the game that has given us so much and we will continue to contribute to the clubs and communities who need this support.”
Fund ambassador and Australian cricketer, Holly Ferling said:
"I was fortunate to be in Townsville earlier this year as the Grassroots Cricket Fund made a significant contribution to help get a flood-affected club back on its feet with a weather-resistant hybrid synthetic wicket.
“This is what the Fund is all about, helping cricketers at the grassroots of the game to maximise every opportunity to play Australia’s favourite sport.
“We look forward to contributing to making a difference throughout as many communities as possible over the coming years.”
The Grassroots Cricket Fund will again be open to clubs around Australia for the 2019-20 season, helping fund equipment and facilities projects.
Head to www.grassrootscricketfund.com.au for more information about how your club can apply to the Fund today.
