Vale of Leven Cricket Club will begin their preparations for the 2019 season with a number of outdoor training sessions ahead of their first match on Saturday, April 27.
After strolling to the Western District Cricket Union League fourth division last summer with an impressive nine wins, three draws and just one loss from 13 matches, the Vale are looking forward to the challenge ahead as they get set to move up a league to compete in the third division this year - as well as taking part in the midweek league and friendlies throughout the season.
It’s an exciting time for the club off the pitch too with a four year ground improvement project, which includes a new scoreboard and score hut, set to be completed before the first home game at the end of this month.
The four year project was mainly funded by West Dunbartonshire’s Sport Facility fund with the club also making progress in their search for future cricket stars.
Vale, who remained active throughout the winter months with indoor coaching sessions at Vale of Leven Academy, have been carrying out a number of cricket taster sessions at Dumbarton Academy in a school project in partnership with WDL’s Active Schools.
Read more: West Dunbartonshire's only cricket club is on the lookout for new players
With plans in place for even more taster sessions in May with primary schools in both Dumbarton and Vale of Leven set to benefit, the club is also hosting a festival of cricket at its Millburn ground to celebrate the 25th anniversary of their Scottish Small Club’s Cup win in 1994.
The only cricket club in West Dunbartonshire, Vale are actively looking to recruit new players from Dumbarton, Clydebank and the Vale of Leven areas ahead of the new season.
Anyone interested in taking up the sport for the first time or looking for a new club to play for should get in contact with Hugh Hutchinson on 07728146461 or visit the club’s Facebook page.
Vale welcome Motherwell on Saturday, April 27 as they get their season underway at Millburn.
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