Photo Credit: Sydney Thunder
Sydney Thunder’s Hero of The West nominees are here! A shortlist of five people for the inaugural award have now been announced.
Brad Astill, George Greentree, Katrina Hood, Lance Soles and Dipti Verma have been named as Western Sydney’s top volunteers from across the game.
The ask went out to all of Western Sydney, to put forward those who make a significant contribution to their cricketing community for Thunder’s newest accolade.
Volunteers are the unsung heroes of our game. A lifeblood of their respective clubs and associations, organising junior cricket, running Blast sessions and even taking on roles as Child Safety Officer or Treasurer, all going above and beyond to contribute to the cricketing community.
A winner of the inaugural Hero of The West award will be announced at the interval of Monday 8 January’s ‘Best of The West’ fixture between Sydney Thunder and Perth Scorchers.
Nominees
Brad Astill – Penrith Junior Cricket Association
Brad is important to the local cricket community due to his ongoing commitment to the development of junior cricketers.
Whilst Brad started out coaching his own son’s club and representative teams it’s his dedication after his son finished junior cricket that sets him apart from others.
In all, Brad has coached PJCA Representative teams for the past 8 seasons and since 2020/21 he has done so without a child playing junior cricket.
George Greentree – Hawkesbury District CA/Freemans Reach CC
George and the Greentree family have played a pivotal role in local cricket for many generations.
George has served in a variety of executive positions on both the local association and for his beloved club Freemans Reach CC.
Despite his ongoing health battles, George still attends and contributes at every association and club meeting with this year celebrating his 50th volunteering for Freemans.
Katrina Hood – Glemore Park CC
Katrina has worn many hats during her time at Glenmore Park CC.
These include Club Team Manager, Reps Team Manager, Child Safety Officer and now even Treasurer as she continuously puts her hand up to any role which the club needs filling.
She has done that with positivity and a willingness to help and support the club and other committee members wherever possible.
Lance Soles – Castle Hill RSL CC
Lance has volunteered at Castle Hills RSL Cricket Club for well over 20 years and dedicates time outside of his busy working schedule to foster cricket at his club.
His commitment to this centre well exceeds the hour and a half that he volunteers on Friday afternoons at Fred Caterson reserve to over 100 willing participants.
Lance has created a fun, exciting and engaging community within the Blast Program and has worked diligently with Cricket NSW to engage the South Asian community that has grown in Castle Hill over the recent years.
Dipti Verma – Carlingford Waratah CC
Dipti is a dedicated female volunteer whose passion and organisational skills have played a pivotal role in boosting junior cricket registrations at the Carlingford Waratah Cricket Club.
Her tireless efforts and innovative initiatives have not only attracted a number of young talents but have also fostered a sense of community and enthusiasm among the junior players.
Dipti’s outstanding commitment to the growth of cricket embodies the spirit of volunteerism and has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the club.
Come and show your appreciation for the five nominees at the Sydney Showground next Monday. Secure your tickets for the fixture HERE.
Name of Author: Sydney Thunder
The Sydney Thunder is an Australian professional cricket team competing in the Big Bash League (BBL). Based at Sydney Showground Stadium, the Thunder, along with the Sydney Sixers, succeeded the New South Wales Blues from the defunct KFC Twenty20 Big Bash.
