Going into bat for Kiwi cricketers
Katikati cricket players, fans, clubs and coaches are being asked what they need to make this season their team’s best yet.
The ANZ bank is supporting cricketers from across the country as they head into their 2018/2019 season. ANZ’s On Your Team community cricket programme gives cricket players, teams and schools the chance to apply for sponsorship to help them improve their game.
Whether cricketers are striving to be the best players they can be, wanting to help their club grow, or need some inspiration from Black Caps or White Ferns players.
ANZ Head of Sponsorship Sue McGregor said the bank has been supporting community cricket since 2009 and given more than $900,000 to help young cricket teams achieve their cricket goals.
“Most have experienced Saturday morning sport — we’ve either played it or we’ve supported it,” McGregor said. “At ANZ, we know the value and the life lessons team sport provides, which is why, after almost 10 years, we continue to support grassroots sport.”
“We know it costs time and money to play, to buy uniforms and gear and to maintain clubrooms, and we want to help as many people as possible enjoy it.”
The first recipient of ANZ’s On Your Team grant for 2018 was the Papatoetoe Under-16 women’s cricket team, which received new gear and uniforms, and met the White Ferns. “It’s incredible,” coach Regina Lilii said.
“ANZ gave the team brand-new cricket gear and uniforms to keep. This means so much to them and has a significant impact on team morale.
“The opportunity to meet the White Ferns and ask questions about their game . . . this doesn’t happen every day. It was inspiring for our players and something they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.”
Applications for the On Your Team grants are available to all cricket players, clubs, teams and fans across New Zealand.
“We encourage teams to tell us how having ANZ on your team will make a difference this season,” McGregor said.