Springs Old Boys Cricket Club held a prize-giving ceremony at Veritas Private College last Thursday to laud the players whose star quality has stood out.
Michael Kelder was named the junior player of the year. Michael scored 551 runs for the season, his highest score was 120. He scored two 100s and one 50.
The 14-year-old said: “I felt excited when they called my name, I am honoured to be a part of this club. I will continue to work hard and be great.”
He attributed his success to his father and his coach.
The senior player of the year is Neill Joubert (22). He scored 487 runs for the season, the highest score being 116. He achieved 38 wickets. He also scored two 50s and one 100.
“It was a wonderful evening, it was my first time getting this trophy, and I am happy to hold it,” he said.
He said his advice to young players is that they should continue to work hard and remain disciplined.
It was also a big night for Riaan van der Merwe (48), the vice-captain for the over-40s league, who was named the best bowler in the senior team.
We did quite well for the season. Last year, we didn’t win one game, and this year we won about three of four games, so it has been a great improvement from last year. He said they have seen great improvement from last year.
“We did quite well for the season, last year we didn’t win one game, and this year we won about three of four games, so it has been a great improvement from last year. I’m one of the oldest guys in the team, it’s tough you have to continue practicing even when you feel stiff after games because it’s not as easy as it used to be. Hard work and determination will help you carry you,” he said.
His advice to aspiring cricket players is that they should learn from the experienced players and go beyond their set goals.
In the senior teams, Jaco Potgieter obtained the coaches award, Riaan van der Merwe won the best bowler award, Neill Joubert was named the best all rounder and Jonathan Diedericks was named best batsmen.
Coach Gerald Rudman’s players namely Michael Luke Kotze, Xander Pretorius, John Rudman and Evan van Heerden received trophies for the coaches award, best bowler, best batsmen and all rounder award, respectively.
Coach Lionel Joubert revealed that the club will launch a ladies’ cricket team.
