The past week has been a busy one for the Home Hill Cricket Association. On Tuesday afternoon, the Rookies program took place at East Ayr State School, where coaches Guy and Thomas led children in a fun-filled session focused on the fundamental skills of cricket. During Friday afternoon’s Challengers games, Corey Pensini and Nicholas Marrinan stood out as top scorers, followed closely by strong performances from Noah Tanner and Henry Cohen. Levi Trail earned the "McDonald's Sports Award" this week, recognised for his impressive bowling and fielding efforts.
In the "Blue" group, Kip Nicholas claimed the award for his well-rounded performance with both bat and ball, remaining unbeaten with 12 runs and delivering an economical bowling spell, including a maiden over. Tait Parker also ended his innings not out, scoring 11 runs with a boundary. Jude Shannon and Tyler Smith each took a wicket, while Kye Quinlan achieved two runouts, showcasing the team’s strength in the field.
The "Gold" group saw some players missing due to the North Queensland Cricket Association (NQCA) Trials over the weekend, with several "Blue" players stepping up to fill in. Among them, Alex Cullen and Kaisen Petersen batted well, both retiring not out. Kaisen also bowled two economical overs, earning him the "McDonald's Sports Award" for his performance. Logan Pickup claimed two wickets, while Nate Quagliata and Nathaniel Backo took one each.
The weekend also brought NQCA trials for the Under 12s to Under 16s, with five Home Hill Cricket Association players participating. Oliver Calligaro, Xavier Cross, Marshall Parker, and Mark Wilkie travelled to Ingham for the Under 12 trials, while Thomas Cardillo headed to Townsville for the Under 16s. Meanwhile, the Home Hill club hosted the Under 13s for their two-day trial at the Nutrien Ag Solutions Cricket Complex.
Contributed with thanks to Joanne Heidke.
Commended for his exceptional performance, Kip Nicholas was presented with a Sports Award!
Levi Trail was celebrated for his bowling and fielding efforts with a Sports Award.
Praised for his batting, Kaisen Petersen scored a Sports Award for his performance.
Mark Wilkie, Oliver Calligaro, Marshall Parker, and Xavier Cross performed amazingly at the U12 NQCA Trials in Ingham.
Thomas Cardillo impressed onlookers at the U16 NQCA Trials in Townsville.
Top scorers Corey Pensini and Nicholas Marrinan in action!
Alex Cullen’s batting skills impressed spectators!
Tait Parker scored 11 runs!
Friday afternoon saw plenty of action in the Challenger Games.