Teenage girls from across Perth took to the iconic WACA Ground to welcome the summer of cricket at the annual Team Connect Gala Day.
Supported by the WA Cricket Foundation, Team Connect creates a link between secondary schools and junior cricket clubs helping adolescent girls from traditionally low participation groups become involved in organised sport.
WA Cricket Foundation Board Member John Gardner said the WA Cricket Foundation is working to ensure equal opportunity for everyone in the sport.
“We’re proud to partner with Team Connect, a wonderful program helping to grow opportunities for women and girls, through their involvement in the great game of cricket,” he said.
In a full day of fun at the WACA Ground, players were put through their paces in a range of training drills and activities designed to create new connections and friendships, both on and off the field.
Every girl participating went home with a second-hand bat and ball so they can share the cricket experience in their own backyard, with more than 100 bats lined up against the iconic WACA Ground picket fence ready for their new owners.
The volunteer-run program now supports more than 100 girls across nine teams between Armadale and Wanneroo, featuring players from culturally and socially diverse backgrounds including refugees and new Australians.
Team Connect Program Coordinator Margie Oldfield said all girls should be offered the opportunity to be involved in community sport and given access to ongoing assistance.
““I believe community sport has unfortunately become a privilege to which not all children have access, due to factors such as cost, language barriers or a lack of support.
“I hope that one day there will be a Team Connect program running in every public high school in Western Australia,” she said.
Players are provided with uniforms, equipment, and transport to and from games, ensuring participation comes at zero cost to every girl and their family or caregiver.
For many, Team Connect provides their first opportunity to experience team sport, giving them a chance to access community connections and form positive lifelong relationships.
Minister for Women’s Interests Hon. Simone McGurk MLA BA leant her support to the program.
“Sport is a wonderful way to gain confidence and leadership skills and importantly – it’s also fun. The opportunity to participate should be available to everyone, regardless of their gender or background.
“The cost of sport shouldn’t be a barrier to taking part and I applaud this wonderful initiative which is helping to get more girls involved and achieve their dreams,” she said.
To learn more about Team Connect click here.
