29th September 2025
| Laura Goode
Celebrating the Heart of the Game
The 2025 UES Cricket Collective Awards
On Friday, we gathered at the iconic Sophia Gardens to honour the heartbeat of cricket in Wales , our incredible volunteers. The 2025 UES Cricket Collective Awards brought together shortlisted volunteers from across the country, many of whom travelled long distances to be part of this special occasion. Their presence made the event all the more meaningful, and we are truly grateful.
Volunteers are the lifeblood of our sport. Without them, cricket simply wouldn’t happen at the scale or in the spirit that it does. They make cricket accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for players of all backgrounds and ages, helping make our vision of ‘A Sport for All’ a reality across our beautiful nation.
Diolch yn fawr.
This year’s awards were extra special, each one was hand-crafted by local carpenter GP Carpentry using surplus cricket bats, bringing to life our vision for awards that not only celebrated our volunteers but reflected their pride and passion for the game.
Beautifully designed and rich with meaning, these bespoke pieces were symbols of sustainability, craftsmanship, and cricket’s deep roots in the community.
We are incredibly grateful to GP Carpentry for creating something truly unique for this year’s celebration.
Each award presented on the day told a story of passion, selflessness, and dedication. Here are this year’s outstanding UES Cricket Collective Award Winners:
Coach of the Year
Oliver Hughes – Llandudno Cricket Club
A true role model, Oliver’s passion for the game and commitment to developing young talent is nothing short of inspirational. He goes above and beyond to ensure cricket is accessible to the next generation, making a lasting impact at Llandudno CC and beyond.
Innovator of the Year
Sarah Edwards – Northop Hall CC
Sarah’s creativity, determination and forward-thinking approach have transformed great ideas into real change. She is a brilliant example of innovation in action, driving progress and inclusion at her club.
Sport For All Award
Verity Samuel – Croesyceiliog CC
Verity has shown an outstanding commitment to making cricket a welcoming and inclusive space for all. Her work ensures that everyone, regardless of background or ability, can find their place in the game.
Volunteer of the Year
Rob Wilkins – Miskin Manor CC
Rob embodies everything this award stands for, dedication, community spirit, and unwavering commitment. His efforts at Miskin Manor CC have been vital in supporting players, teams, and the wider cricket family.
Young Volunteer of the Year (11–16)
Alex Evans – Croesyceiliog CC
Alex’s contributions from the scorebox and his eagerness to grow as a volunteer make him an exceptional young role model. A deserving winner making a real difference at a young age.
Young Volunteer of the Year (17–25)
Harry Bryant – Swansea CC
Harry is a driving force at Swansea CC, running all social media channels, serving as a key committee member, and playing a crucial role in junior development through the Dynamos programme. His 100% attendance and leadership are unmatched.
Grounds Management
Jonathan Davies – Pembroke CC
Jonathan’s hard work behind the scenes quite literally lays the groundwork for the game. His tireless efforts ensure players have top-quality facilities to enjoy the sport.
Safe Hands Award
Clare Roberts – Newport Fugitives CC
Clare ensures that her club remains a safe, nurturing, and welcoming environment for young players. Her safeguarding work is vital and deeply appreciated.
Green Club Award
Bethesda Cricket & Bowling Club
Nestled in one of the most beautiful locations in Wales, Bethesda CC have shown true commitment to sustainability through community partnerships and environmental action. A shining example of cricket’s role in supporting a greener future.
Young Coach of the Year (16–25)
David Owen – Menai Bridge CC
David has dedicated countless volunteer hours coaching across all levels. His passion and reliability are invaluable, helping inspire the next generation of players.
Unsung Hero Award
Abigail Morgan – Ammanford CC
Quietly working behind the scenes, Abigail’s dedication keeps her club running smoothly and thriving. She is the epitome of the ‘unsung hero’ and thoroughly deserving of this recognition.
Primary School of the Year
Ysgol Carreg Hirfaen
This fantastic school continues to grow cricket as part of the curriculum and works closely with Cricket Wales to ensure the sport thrives at a grassroots level.
Secondary School of the Year
Radyr Comprehensive School
Thanks to the enthusiasm and leadership of Beth Willis, Radyr has embraced cricket wholeheartedly, becoming a vibrant hub for the sport and the wider community.
Metro Bank Champion of Girls' Cricket
Lydia Clements – Radyr Cricket Club
Lydia balances her career as a solicitor with playing for Glamorgan Women and the MCC and still finds time to coach the girls at Radyr CC. Her dedication has created a strong pathway for girls’ cricket in Wales.
Club of the Year
Buckley Cricket Club
On and off the field, Buckley CC sets the standard. With inclusive values, community spirit, and fantastic performances, this club truly sits at the heart of its community.
Lifetime Achiever Award
Tony Moss
Tony’s contribution to cricket in Wales spans decades as a player, coach, administrator, umpire, safeguarding lead, and Cricket Wales board member. His impact on the game has been immense, shaping it for generations to come. A truly exceptional man, and a fitting recipient of this prestigious award.
The 2025 UES Cricket Collective Awards were a wonderful celebration of the people who make cricket in Wales possible. From grassroots heroes to lifelong servants of the game, each story shared was a reminder of the power of volunteering and community spirit. Diolch yn fawr to every nominee, winner, and club and here’s to another year of inspiring cricket across Wales.
Ends.