BRADMAN CHALLENGE MATCH REPORT
Bowral April 21, 2007
The 2nd Annual Bradman Challenge Match was played at Bradman Oval, Bowral, on 21st April and was a tremendous success. Since its inception just last year the match has quickly become a major event on the Dragon's calendar, as evidenced by the outstanding support it received this year. The match is played by two teams of Dragon's juniors, primarily Under 16s, with priority given to those players in their second year. As such, it represents a unique opportunity for many of these players to play on a ground with the status and quality of Bradman Oval and is a marvellous way for them to finish their junior cricket careers with the Dragons. The teams are carefully selected by the coaches and captains to ensure an even mix of ability and the match is played using an averages format, which ensures all players have equal involvement with both bat and ball.
This year's match was played in perfect weather conditions and was attended by a large crowd of family and club members, with many staying overnight and having a most enjoyable and sociable time. "Marciante's Maulers", captained by Ben Marciante and coached by Harry Robbins, were victorious over "Ward's Warriors", captained by Daniel Ward and coached by Dennis Pendergast. The match was keenly contested and played in great club spirit, with plenty of runs scored, wickets taken, no shortage of banter and, most importantly, a lot of laughter and fun had by all. Congratulations to all players for the way they played the game and particularly to Jason Gilmore and Dean McMillan who were players of the match. Many thanks to; Ben, Harry, Daniel and Dennis for their efforts in organising and running the teams, Steve Chapman and Paul Bremner for umpiring, Ian Latham for his organisation, Ken Newman our 'official photographer' and all the parents and supporters who assisted on the day with scoring, afternoon tea and supporting the players and the club. It is events such as this which demonstrate the wonderful club we have and will no doubt be something our junior players can look forward to for many years to come.
