Matt Kelly champions inclusive cricket in Geraldton

On Wednesday 6 August, Kelly visited Holland Street School, Nagle Catholic College (Special Education Hub) and Geraldton Grammar School, running sessions designed to make cricket accessible and fun for everyone. The Geraldton Grammar visit was a Star Blast session — a modified cricket program for children with a disability. 

Kelly, who is also an ambassador for the WA Cricket Foundation, said the joy and confidence shown by students throughout the day was a highlight.

“The most pleasing thing is seeing the kids with smiles on their faces, getting involved with cricket in any way they can, having a lot of fun, and supporting each other, too,” Kelly said.

“One thing that cricket brings - it’s not only about playing and winning, but also about being part of a team and something bigger than yourself. By the end of the sessions, the kids who were nervous at the start were having fun and backing each other, which was great to see.”

The clinics were supported by Aurizon, a new community partner of the WA Cricket Foundation, which – along with generous donors - helps deliver Star Blast and Deadly Cricket programs in the Mid West.

Kelly’s visit capped off a busy few days for WA Cricket in the region, which also included an Aboriginal Talent Academy training session and meetings with local stakeholders involved in WA Cricket Foundation initiatives.

Kelly said spending time in regional communities was a crucial part of the Foundation’s mission.

“The WA Cricket Foundation is doing a brilliant job supporting All Abilities cricket. We know cricket is a game for all - anybody can play and be part of the cricket community,” he said.

“Promoting programs like Star Blast in Geraldton is vital to making that vision a reality.”

For more information on the WA Cricket Foundation’s disability cricket programs, visit wacricketfoundation.com.au/disability-cricket.