NCF celebrates grassroots heroes at 2026 Cricket Collective Awards

Norfolk Cricket Foundation celebrates grassroots heroes at 2026 Cricket Collective Awards

The Norfolk Cricket Foundation celebrated the people who make grassroots cricket thrive at its annual Cricket Collective Awards, held at Wensum Valley Golf Club on Friday 11 September.

Around 75 volunteers, guests, Norfolk Cricket Foundation staff and directors attended the evening, with 11 awards recognising outstanding contributions from across the county.

Young Cricket Collective Champion: Evie Austin (Topcroft), recognised for her continued support of All-Stars and Dynamos sessions and her outstanding ability to engage and inspire young players. Other shortlisted finalists: Ben Ditcham and Isla James.

Newcomer of the Year: Will Hancock, whose first season as Head of Youth Cricket at North Runcton CC has made a significant impact on the club’s young players and wider administration. Other shortlisted finalists: Craig Poole and Caroline Churchill.

Raising the Game: Adam Meek, for his extensive contribution to youth and women’s cricket at Reepham & Salle CC, including supporting year-round opportunities. Other shortlisted finalists: Danny Cornwall and Josh Herbert.

Champion of Women & Girls Cricket: Ami Monahan Fairlie and Gemma Mott, recognised for establishing the women’s section at Rudham & District CC and creating new opportunities for women and girls, including the club’s first girls-only fixture. Other shortlisted finalists: Hayley Winnett and Hannah Shanahan.

Unsung Hero: Jordan Scase (Fakenham CC), whose tireless work on and off the field has made him an invaluable member of the club. Other shortlisted finalists: Mark Britton and Steve Clarke.

Official of the Year: Allison Bradnock, for her outstanding commitment to developing and supporting scorers across Norfolk and the wider region. Other shortlisted finalists: Jack Whitelegg and David Coe.

Grounds & Facilities: Jed Brister & Steve Utting (Acle & Halvergate CC), for their dedication to maintaining the Halvergate Playing Fields and supporting the club through fundraising. Other shortlisted finalists: Liam Kellegher and Rob Drew.

Coach of the Year: Julie Fielder (Snettisham), recognised for combining extensive playing experience with knowledge, humour and encouragement to develop players and team spirit. Other shortlisted finalists: Josh Fossey, Rob Ellis & Liam Kevern

Services to Coaching: Tom Davies, for more than 30 years of service to Cromer CC and over 20 years supporting coach development and the Norfolk Cricket Talent Pathway. Other shortlisted finalists: Emily Dack and Peter Sims.

Cricket Collective Champion: Stu Purling, whose dedication has helped transform Saxlingham CC into a thriving community club with a successful youth programme. Other shortlisted finalists: Peter Luke, Rory Stephens and Hayley Winnett, all of Aldborough CC.

The Lifetime Achiever award saw all nominations declared winners: David Pearson (Brisley & North Elmham CC), Steve Robinson (Bradfield CC), and John Ruddick (Hockwold CC), recognising their exceptional long-term commitment to their respective clubs and to Norfolk recreational cricket.

The awards highlight the passion, generosity and dedication of the volunteers, coaches, officials and club members who ensure cricket continues to flourish across Norfolk.