Newsletter - Issue 3 May 25

Newsletter - Issue 3 May 25

Firstly in this edition is a Note from the Chairman

After a very successful pre-season the real stuff starts this weekend with our first league matches of the campaign. In particular I’d like to stress how much we need to support and show understanding towards the club captains. It’s an onerous task as anyone who has been brave enough to do it will confirm.

Firstly, support. On match days there are a number of small , not difficult but essential jobs that need doing in order for things to work smoothly. Please be prepared to help out when asked as it really makes a difference.

Secondly, understanding. I’ve seen the Brookweald ebb and flow several times during my time at the club. Recently watching captains struggle to put 2 teams out , literally begging people to play to get our quota. Now we may have the situation where we have a surplus of available members some weeks. Just as difficult for the captains trying to juggle being competitive , encouraging new young players and rewarding loyalty. Impossible to keep everyone happy. Our support and understanding will really help. It’s our Brookweald and collectively year on year we are making positive strides in all aspects our organisation. Let’s keep moving the club forward.

We’re so very fortunate to be the custodians of one of the prettiest grounds in the country . Let’s enjoy it.

Cheers

Phil Lee

Chairman

A New Season is Upon Us 

Building on Phil's message, we kick off our league campaign this weekend with the 1st XI hosting Eastwood at The Weald, while the 2nd XI travels to face South Loughton. Following a strong pre-season, we're hopeful both sides can start with a bang and secure early victories. Best of luck to all the players - let’s bring home those points and set the tone for a successful season ahead! 

Pre Season Friendlies

We’ve been fortunate with the weather this year, which allowed us to fit in three pre-season friendlies. It was a solid start with two wins out of three, setting a positive tone for the season. More importantly, we've seen a fantastic influx of new members bringing fresh energy to the club.

A warm welcome to Saff, Usman "The Wizard" and Oz. It's brilliant to have new faces joining us, and even better when they're top lads both on and off the field. It’s also great to see Hasan back in action, looking quick and eager hungry for wickets.

Another exciting development is seeing Brookweald 49ers skipper Ben Dowie committing to Saturday cricket. Not only is his presence a boost to our playing strength, but let’s be honest - he’s likely to boost bar takings too! Here's to a promising season ahead with both regulars and fresh recruits in the mix.

Annual Memberships

A huge thank you to everyone who has paid their annual subscriptions - it’s genuinely impressive to see nearly the entire club getting payments so early this season. It might just be a record! As a result, the club is in a strong financial position at a critical time of year, which allows us to plan and invest with real confidence.

As I’ve said before, pushing the club forward is a team effort, and this early financial commitment from the majority of our members means we can continue improving both our facilities and the overall club experience - on and off the field.

Just a friendly reminder: only fully paid members will be eligible for league selection, and you’re not covered under the club’s personal injury insurance unless your subs are paid. Let’s keep the momentum going - your support truly makes a difference. 

New Practice Pitch

The long-awaited practice pitch has now been successfully laid, and the final stages of installation will be wrapped up in the coming days. A big thank you once again to Chappers for overseeing the project and coordinating with contractors to make it happen.

This new addition will be a real asset to the club - providing everyone, especially our batters, with a chance to get some valuable practice in before matches. No more excuses - soon every player will have the opportunity to get their eye in before stepping out to the middle!

Sponsors

We’re actively seeking new sponsors to partner with Brookweald this season. Whether you're a small local business or a larger enterprise, we offer a variety of sponsorship packages tailored to suit different budgets and marketing goals. From pitch side banners and kit branding to digital exposure through our growing social media presence, there’s great value in being part of our club. If you, or someone you know, might be interested in supporting a thriving community club, please get in touch - we’d love to chat! 

Outdoor Practice

Reminder that Thursday evenings we will be holding practice sessions - we have four qualified coaches at the club now so hopefully we will all be able to benefit. The bar will be open for some much needed liquid refreshments after practice.

Availabilities

A big thank you to Waz and Del for taking on the challenge of arranging team selection this year. As Phil rightly pointed out, it’s no easy task. Last season, we were struggling to field two full teams each week—this year, we’ve got the opposite challenge: a surplus of players.

This is a fantastic position to be in, but it does mean that some tough decisions are unavoidable. For Brookweald to continue progressing and remain competitive, we need strength in depth and a committed squad that supports the club week in, week out.

To anyone who wasn’t selected this week or couldn’t play, rest assured - there will be plenty of opportunities over the season. With regular fixtures, potential midweek games, and inevitable injuries or absences, everyone will get their chance. Let’s stay positive, support one another, and keep the energy high across the club. 

Socials

This month we have a couple of events on at the club:

Saturday 24th May - My Wife's Fran's Birthday Party. All are welcome just bring your dancing shoes!

Saturday 31st May - Champions League Final BBQ 

And Finally...

After what has felt like the longest off-season in memory, the cricket season is finally upon us - and not a moment too soon! Let’s rally around our skippers and give them our full support as we aim to make a strong start and pick up as many points as possible this month.

With the talent and depth across both teams, there’s every chance we’ll be pushing for titles come the end of the season. I think we can all agree - winning is far more enjoyable than losing, and nothing beats celebrating a hard-earned victory together back at the clubhouse. Here's to a season full of success, and unforgettable moments on and off the pitch! 

All the best,

Rob