PUT up with it

Fresh faces mean a fresh start for the Pakenham Upper/Toomuc Cricket Club this season, from left; Scott Clark (captain/coach), Vicky Hilder (president), Chad McKie (development coach) and Nick Fairbank (recruit) are all looking to make an impact. 123914 Picture: CONTRIBUTED

By DAVID NAGEL

A NEW leadership group is in place and it’s all systems go as the Pakenham Upper/Toomuc Cricket Club looks to re-establish itself as a force in the West Gippsland Cricket Association.
Relegated from the Premier Division last season, the Yabbies have appointed former Kooweerup all-rounder Scott Clark as captain-coach, while Vicky Hilder will preside over a new-committee that has already performed a Herculean effort to have the club ready for the 2014/15 season.
The Yabbies have also recruited the talented Nick Fairbank, while Chad McKie will pass on his wealth of knowledge in his role as a non-playing development coach.
Clark said he was excited by his appointment and keen to build on the enthusiasm that currently exists at the Yabbies.
“I was blown away by the commitment and loyalty of the existing members I spoke with,” Clark said.
“The Yabbies have so much existing talent and I hope to be the one to bring the best out in all of them.”
Vicky Hilder said she too was keen to lead an enthusiastic group of 21 committee-members who have dedicated themselves to the club.
“When I came to the club six-years ago I felt immediately welcomed into the Yabbies’ fold… if I can give just a small percentage back to such a wonderful club, after what they did for me, then I will have succeeded in my role,” she said.
“Each and every member of our club is respected and appreciated.
“We would love to see some old faces return and hopefully many new faces will want to see what it’s all about.
“We want our family friendly club to succeed in every way possible.”
The Yabbies, who are also looking to recruit juniors and ladies to the club, are hosting a ‘Meet the Coaches’ day on Sunday 27 July at 2pm. All are welcome to join in with the club for food and drinks.