Happy New Year to all club members. As in all healthy organisations we have continual change and 2009 will be no exception.

We are pleased to report that Mark Fenton has agreed to take on the role of club treasurer. He claims no special knowledge of the job, but is pleased to be able to help. I am sure that we will all help him by making sure that subs and match fees are all paid in good time so that he has always enough in the pot to pay the bills.

The season kicks off on 18th April, just 5 weeks away. It has been a relatively mild winter and the ground looks in good condition and am sure Peter and Robin will soon be active to get ready for our first game, a friendly with Yarm from the NYSD League at Hampsthwaite, on 11th April. Kenny will be bringing a good young side down that should allow us a competitive work out.

NETS….both venues at Headingley (Sun 5-6) and Rossett (Fri 7.45-8.45) have been well attended. We have had some new faces at BOTH sessions, which shows real enthusiasm and augers well for the season. It was especially pleasing to see in one net at Rossett, our youngsters Harry Hopkinson and Max Beeley both batting competently. For those who have not ventured out yet there is still a few weeks to catch the captain’s eye, as competition for places looks really strong! We also have our new outdoor netting facility. With the weather as it is, this can be used sooner than expected.

KIT….Ollie has acquired some new kit in the club colours, so even if we are not the best in the league we can be the smartest! If you require something new I am assured that they are competitively priced. Pls see Ollie.

Captain’s Meeting for NACL….April 3rd at Ripley Town Hall, 7.30pmm. We are required to send both captains. If you cannot make it please deputise with your vice-captain. There will be handbooks (24) and balls (12) to collect.

BALL USE….The club provides a new ball for every Sat match only. This alone costs £800+. New balls are not to be used for Wed games and evening cup games. It is important that you keep the Sat match ball in reasonable condition for the Wed games…..spit and polish is allowed (from Sat to Wed!!). Hand books will be available at the start of the season. £4 (NACL) and £2 (HAECL).
 

RULE CHANGES….We have had both the League AGM’s recently and there are no major changes in the NACL rules, but in the HAECL there is a return to 20X6 ball overs from 18X8 ball overs for the first time in over 40 years, and for both League and cup games.

Peter Crack.

Chairman