AS the Crusaders Sports Club celebrates its 50th anniversary, one man can be more proud of the achievement than most. Peter Almond. The 70-year-old was one of the founding members of the sports club, which has always prided itself as a community club.

“When the club was founded, the grounds were just a swamp. So to see where it all started to what it is today is an incredible achievement. The municipality wanted to develop it as a green belt but Percy Hardaker, the first principal of Northlands Boys and one of the founders of the club had different ideas. It was hoped when we started the club (known as Northlands Sports Club in 1964) it would serve the North Durban community and it certainly has done that today,” he said.

Almond was also chairman of the cricket club, played flyhalf and fullback for the rugby club and is the current treasurer of the Crusaders squash club. He also worked for Bakers and was involved in the Bakers Mini Cricket programme which gives young boys and girls a first taste of cricket.

The former deputy headboy of Northlands is this year’s Circle of Valour community service award winner.

“I’m very humbled and honoured. I don’t do this to receive awards but I’ve loved every moment of being part of this wonderful club. I receive this award on behalf of the other people who were instrumental in building the club to what it is today,” he said.