Aidan Watterson - hard work beats talent

Western Suburbs District Cricket Club Brisbane | April 30, 2024

Aidan Watterson was presented with his presented with his first grade cap No 552 on 4 November 2017 from two of Western Suburbs best ever fast bowlers Greg Rowell and Dirk Tazelaar.

Let’s find out more about Aidan’s journey so far

What year you were born?

1996

If you can share with our readers how you would describe yourself as a cricketer?

Opening Bowler

What’s been your most memorable moment in cricket so far?

I probably have two, the first was winning my first A grade premiership back home in Toowoomba for Northern Brothers Diggers – We had come from 3rd spot to beat an unbeaten side in the final. We had a special group that year, so was good as a young bloke to be apart of.

Second would have to be my First grade debut in my first year down from Toowoomba in 2017.

At what age did you make your first grade debut?

20

Who’s your favourite all-time cricketer?

Adam Gilchrist – Being a left hander, I used to love watching him come out and tear attacks apart.

Who is the best fastest bowler you’ve played against?

He hasn’t been the fastest, but Scott Walter has been class for so long, just blows front pads off for fun. 

Who is the best spinner you’ve played against?

Mitch Swepson – He has tore Wests apart a few times now.

Who’s the best wicket keeper you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?

One who doesn’t play for the club anymore, but former First Grade player at Wests - Dom O’ Brien. He has the best hands I’ve seen behind the stumps. I still remember him coming back after two years out of the gloves and was electric. Also has the best underarm throw with gloves on in grade cricket – just ask him.

Who played the best innings you’ve seen firsthand playing with or against?

Sam Truloff’s 100 in the One Day Final 2019/20 would probably have to be it. He didn’t look like getting out that day. When he’s going, he is one of the best to watch on the grade scene. Won it for us.

Who are the two players in QLD Premier Cricket you’ve come to admire most in terms of skills and competitive spirit in the competitions you played?

Scott Walter – His skill is crazy. He is one I look at as a swing bowler, to build a game off. So consistent and asks so many questions of the batsman.

Pat Collins – Haven’t played under a better leader. He competes on everything and would bleed for you. He’s the heart and soul of our club at Wests.

Which singer/band would you like to see perform live?

A lot of us have been getting around a new bloke on the scene – Desh Kongalage. His music videos look like they’d transfer well onto a live gig.

Can you recall some banter or an exchange on the cricket field that still makes you laugh today?

Probably can’t recall a single moment – but the flog Blake Edwards makes me laugh and cringe many times throughout a long day in the field.

Who’s been the biggest influence on your career so far?

There’s not one person, but as a whole it would be my club in Toowoomba – Northern Brothers Diggers. There are some special people at the club who have backed and developed me since I was 15.

Where do you find inspiration that gets you through challenging times?

I’ve had a few challenges with injuries in my first few years at Wests, which put me in some dark places. My inspiration came from some of my best mates at the club. We have a special group, who really take it further then cricket.

Who are the three people in the world you’d love to have a chat to in person?

Michael Jordan

Wayne Bennett

Barack Obama

What do you like to do to relax outside cricket?

Love my Horse Racing – am tied up with a few young horses around the country with Brilliance Racing and have recently bought into one at home in Toowoomba. Beautiful animals and pure athletes.

Also love getting out to the beach with my dog.

If working, what do you do and name of business (we will give them a plug), if at Uni what are your studying/

Currently a HPE Teacher at St Mary’s College

Do you have a favourite quote?

“Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard.”

Can we ask, what would it mean to you to be selected to play for QLD?

It would obviously be an honour. It has always been a dream of mine to take that next step. It would be a moment where you can show thanks to your family and everyone who has believed and helped you along the path. 

Western Suburbs Queensland Premier Cricket One Day Premiers in 2019