Junior Presentation 2025/26

Juniors Celebrated at Gymea Bay Cricket Club 2025–26 Presentation Night

Gymea Bay Cricket Club celebrated another outstanding season last night (8 May), welcoming more than 200 players, parents, volunteers and supporters to the Junior Presentation Night held at Gymea Tradies. Junior members from Cricket Blast through to the Under 16s gathered to celebrate the 2025/26 season, recognising individual achievements, statistics and merit-based awards across the entire junior club.

Club President Mark Lavender officially opened the evening, reflecting on what has been a landmark year for Gymea Bay Cricket Club. He highlighted a range of initiatives delivered throughout the season, including the Bradman Oval intra-club One Day event, which provided juniors and seniors with the unique opportunity to play together on turf at the iconic Bradman Oval.

A major milestone for the club was also acknowledged, with Gymea Bay fielding two Stage 1 girls teams for the first time in its history. This achievement marked significant progress in the club’s female program and was celebrated as a proud moment for players, families and volunteers alike.

The broader club community was also brought together through several successful events, including the Ashes Under the Stars screening at Gymea Bay Oval for the Brisbane Test. With more than 200 people in attendance and dinner supplied by sponsors More Than Meats, the evening was a highlight of the summer. Special mention was made of Glenn Brooking, whose tireless work throughout the afternoon, cooking the meat, ensured the event’s success.

In January, the club also organised a bus trip to a Big Bash League match, transporting members to watch the Sydney Sixers play the Hobart Hurricanes. Gymea Bay Cricket Club provided free bus transport for members and guests who purchased match tickets through the club.

Mark also touched on the club’s strong focus on junior player wellbeing, highlighting the injury prevention sessions delivered during pre-season. He acknowledged the efforts of the committee and support staff in organising the sessions, which focused on building good movement habits and reducing injury risk for young players. Approximately 50 junior cricketers from the under 14’s and 16’s took part, reinforcing the club’s commitment to supporting not just performance, but the long‑term health and enjoyment of its players.

The Cricket Blast program continued to thrive, with 67 participants taking part across the season. Five teams were entered into the Cricket Blast Competition, initially played at Seymour Shaw Synthetic Football Stadium in Miranda and later at Sylvania Hockey Fields following the Christmas break. Pre-Christmas, over 40 participants enjoyed GBCC’s introductory skills program held Friday nights at Gymea Bay Oval.

Mark thanked the dedicated committee for their contributions throughout the season, noting that their efforts – along with those of past volunteers who laid strong foundations – culminated in Gymea Bay Cricket Club being named Cricket NSW Community Club of the Year. The award represented an incredible achievement and recognition at a state level for all that the club has contributed to community cricket over the past twelve months.

The club also acknowledged the support of its sponsors, including new principal partner Menai Sand & Soil, major partners Signature Property Agents, Physio Focus and More Than Meats, and official partners Gymea Hotel, Sportsgift Trophies, Handley Business Solutions, Costa’s Barber Shop and The Bara. Mark expressed sincere thanks to all sponsors, emphasising that their ongoing support allows the club to continue providing high-quality experiences and opportunities for its members, such as those listed above.

Team awards were presented across all age groups, from Cricket Blast through to Under 16s, before the announcement of the major perpetual award winners.

The Grant Freddy-Frearson Junior Club Encouragement Award was awarded to Bronson Liu (U14B) for his commitment and enthusiasm across the season. Bronson attended nine of the ten Friday night Cricket Blast sessions, actively integrated himself into senior training, and on his 14th birthday signed up for the Thursday night T20 competition – demonstrating his passion for the game and dedication to the club.

The President’s Award went to Jude Porich (10B), recognised for his enthusiasm, sportsmanship and willingness to take on challenges. Jude regularly sought feedback from his coach to improve, put his hand up for tough tasks, and earned praise from opposition teams for his honesty and respect for the Spirit of Cricket.

The Andrea Handley Junior Club Contribution Award was presented to Finn Lavender (16A) for stepping into the role of Cricket Blast Coordinator. Finn successfully coordinated the Friday night sessions alongside junior teams and parents, all while managing a significant lower back injury that sidelined him for seven rounds. Upon returning to playing, he made a major impact and was later awarded the Sutherland Medal as Player of the 16A Grand Final.

The Graeme Thornley Club Person of the Year Award was awarded to Morgan Shoebridge for his exceptional contributions both on and off the field. Morgan played a leading role in organising the Lord’s Taverners T20 Day and the Bradman Oval intra-club day, captained a senior and midweek T20 team, managed club equipment and apparel, helped install solar panels on the new storage shed, and contributed extensively to Cricket Blast and community initiatives.

The Edward H Robinson Coaching Award, recognising coaches who foster positive environments and uphold the Spirit of Cricket, was presented to Martin Watts (10B). Martin was widely commended by fellow coaches and opposition teams for his respectful approach and leadership.

The Tony Neale Best Performed Coach Award went to Mark Lavender, coach of the Under 16A premiership team. With a decade of coaching experience at the club and previous recognition for coaching excellence via the Edward H Robinson Award, Mark’s contribution to the premiership season was acknowledged as outstanding.

The night concluded with the presentation of the Alan Craston Trophy – Cricketer of the Year. This year’s recipient was Josh Jones (16A), who enjoyed an exceptional season both on and off the field. Josh scored 470 runs at an average of 67.14, including a century and four half-centuries, took 20 wickets at an average of 12.4, and contributed strongly in the field. This marked the third time Josh has claimed the club’s highest individual honour.

The Junior Presentation Night was a fitting celebration of a season defined by growth, community spirit and achievement, reinforcing Gymea Bay Cricket Club’s proud culture and strong future.

For images from the evening, see our gallery here – Photo Gallery