EMERGING ALL-ROUNDER IN THE GROOVE AT GROVE
IT is refreshing to see talented young sportspeople still able to share their time between different sporting pursuits and play at a high level.
Ocean Grove has one such athlete in Fletcher Keck.
The recently turned 18-year-old has cemented his place in the Grubbers’ senior football and first XI cricket teams within the last 12 months.
Keck forced his way into the footy team in round 4 this year after knocking down the door with impressive form in the Colts side.
He started deep in defence, but finished the season as a half-back/winger and holds a desire to see some midfield action next year.
Keck had established a secure position in the cricket team the previous summer, playing as a leg-spin bowler and lower-order batter.
Although starved of opportunities with the bat, his spin was called upon as a regular part of the attack and his return of 18 wickets in the 2020-21 season rewarded the confidence placed in him by the club’s hierarchy.
Keck has spent many hours on improving his batting to a first XI standard and his season-opening 32 not out against reigning premier Anglesea confirmed the benefit of his efforts.
This was followed by a patient 15 to support the more aggressive Paddy McKenna in a 59-run stand in round 2, justifying his elevation to the key No.4 position in the order this season.
The pressure will now be on to continue at a high level with both bat and ball, as his responsibility within the team has increased.
Good all-rounders are hard to find in cricket and even more scarce in the form of teenagers.
Keck feels comfortable in the team now and with the club recruiting experienced leg spinner Rob Rutley, his access to skilled support for his bowling craft is close at hand.
The Grubbers were involved in a sensational semi-final clash last season, falling a little short against a powerful Anglesea outfit.
That gap will need to be filled with an overall lift in the output of the team and the improvement of Keck may well play a big part in securing the next step toward a BPCA premiership.