Matt Nicholson - Gordon District Cricket Club Life Member Nomination

Gordon District Cricket Club | September 02, 2024

Matt Nicholson was awarded life membership at the Stags AGM in July. The article below comes from the speeches given by Jon Moss, Bob Thomas and Ed Howitt recommending his nomination

I've been fortunate enough to call Nicko a close mate since we first travelled to the UK on the Antipodean's tour of '91 as 16-year-olds. Both a teammate in the early days at Gordon and watching his development, to then becoming fierce competitors on the first class cricket scene, you won't find a better bloke who deserves such a standing alongside the greats at Gordon DCC. As a player, in particular his fast bowling was world class, and you always knew you were in the fight of your life to get through his tough spells.

His love of the game, his love for his family and friends shows the depth of character and is testament to where he is today. Nicko is as genuine and humble a person as you'll meet. Congrats on such an honour mate, and we've all marvelled at your skills over the years.

Jon Moss

Matt Nicholson passing on some of his wisdom to Bryce Cook (Photo: Jim Wright)

When Matt Nicholson arrived at Knox in 1985 as a Year 5 student, he was difficult to miss. He was taller, stronger, faster, extremely well-coordinated and excelled in every sport in which he participated. When Nicho passed on to the Senior School, his ability and performances continued to impress all those who watched him play. Although Nicho played Green Shield for the Stags, he was ready well before he commenced, although considered to be too young. Nicho was selected as the Australian U19 Player of the Year.

Nicho moved to WA through career opportunity, and in 1998 selected to play in the Ashes Boxing Day Test. Nicho claimed 4 wickets at an average of 28.8 in what proved to be his only test. In ensuing years Nicho played County Cricket in England, and on his return to Sydney just happened to total 100 first class games for NSW, as well as serving as a state selector.

Nicho claimed 406 wickets and scored 3258 runs in First Class cricket, with career best bowling figures of 7/62. He claimed another 85 wickets and scored 485 runs in List A matches.

Through all his career achievements, Nicho has remained a steadfast and hugely enthusiastic Stags man. In fact, if you searched for the perfect example of loyalty, search no more, because Nicho is your man. There is no-one more deserving of ever being awarded Life Membership of the Stags. Congratulations Nicho!

Bob Thomas

Nicho came to Gordon from Knox as a young, fearsome, tall quick and it was very obvious he was an above average cricketer. As a captain, Nicho would invariably lead from the front. It was always clear what he expected of you and he was a guy you wanted to follow out on to the cricket field.

Nicho is the best specialist coach I have ever worked with or listened to. He is like a horse whisperer of fast bowling. Nicho is always very clear with his messaging and never makes his coaching complicated. He is driven by a love of the game but also a genuine passion for Gordon Cricket Club.

Ed Howitt