Today, we acknowledge one of our game’s greatest servants.
After more than a decade of Junior Vice-Presidency, and many more years spent in roles spread across the committee, Ross Leonard has decided to take a step back, as confirmed at this years AGM.
Ross began as a volunteer in the 1980s when he took on the role of coach for his sons’ cricket teams at the Eastern Districts Cricket Club. From then he joined the Newcastle Junior Cricket Association and served as Vice President, Secretary and undertook other roles for some 20 years. With the amalgamation of Newcastle City & Eastern Districts Cricket Club in 2001, Ross has since served on the committee of Newcastle City including many years as Junior President. His unwavering support has ensured the ongoing success of the junior programs at the club, with over 160 youngsters playing cricket each week.
During his many years of service, Ross has performed an endless number of tasks. From coaching junior teams which have contained players who have progressed through the Grade ranks, some continuing on to higher honours, opening ground facilities, marking wickets and setting out boundaries on game day or providing support and guidance to any young (or old) player and coach alike, just to name a few.
Ross’ tenure has been one of great progression and success at both Junior and Senior levels. His expertise has grown our club into one of the largest Junior hubs in the Newcastle region. We have claimed 4 junior Club Championships and have been the pinnacle for continued growth in Girls’ cricket.
We aren’t the only benefactors of Ross’ stellar history of volunteering in the cricket community. He has had heavy involvement with the Newcastle Junior Cricket Association also and as a result of this, is a life member of both the NJCA and NCCC.
While Ross felt he simply “didn’t have the energy” to carry on in the Junior Vice-President role, he isn’t just stepping away immediately. Typical of the man, he will be “sticking around” to hand the reigns over to the new incoming Junior Vice-President, Richard Wood.
There is plenty more that could have been said about Ross’ invaluable contributions to our Club, and cricket in general, but we think the picture has been well painted. We know Ross will still be around the grounds, checking in and supporting from the sidelines.
