Tara Murray
Altona Sports junior cricket program has received a massive boost with Netherlands captain Scott Edwards coming on board as a junior development coach.
Having successfully had junior sides for the first time in 25 years last season, the club is keen to build on the program in the Western Region Junior Cricket Association.
The club’s program is fully funded and focuses on underprivileged and new Australian families.
Sports president Dean Bryden said Edwards reached out to them about getting involved.
“Scott played at Blackburn South which was the same club as me” he said.
“It’s looks like if the Netherlands miss out on making the World Cup, it means he has a four month international window, where he can be in Australia.
“He was aware of our junior program and reached out saying he would like to be part of it when in Australia.”
Bryden said when they set up the program last season they were hoping to have one or two teams.
They entered up with five under-11 teams, exceeding all expectations.
“We want to get as many kids in the area that are underprivileged or new to Australia,” he said.
“We want to get the awareness out for next season. We want to push it in the community and get as many people to know about the program.
“We’ll look at doing some more targeted stuff with the council, charities, foster care and look at some school programs.”
Bryden said parents could be looking at $400 to $500 to have their children playing cricket, which is a cost that many can’t afford.
Bryson said having someone like Edwards come on board is massive for the club and the kids as well.
“For me it’s a wonderful thing getting these sorts of great players and the kids can watch TV and say that’s my coach,” he said.
“Last year we had Trent Lawford, who played BBL. We’re taking on people who understand what we do in the community and want to give back to the community.”
Bryden said they were still looking for a couple more assistant coaches to help out.
With Edwards helping with the club’s junior side, the natural question is will he pad up for the senior side at all.
Bryden didn’t rule it out.
“He’ll play in our Zaidee Foundation charity game,” he said. “He might play some T20s in the North West Metropolitan Cricket Association.
“He’s trying to play in the Big Bash, but we may get him for a couple of games.”
