TARA Martin hopes a return home to Merbein South can lead to a Sunraysia Cricket Association Women’s premiership.
The 20-year-old has been appointed captain of the Saints for 2021-22 after a year playing for Mildura West, which resulted in a second premiership medallion.
The former club champion will also coach the girls’ under-14 side, aiding the development of the club’s future.
“It’s pretty exciting,” Martin said. “I had played at Merbein South for my whole life before having a year with Mildura West last season.
“My whole family is there at the club and when they approached me about taking on the role I was keen to give it a go.”
Martin said the expansion in popularity of cricket for females has been great for the sport.
“When I was in under-14s I think there were two girls at my age, now there are enough for a whole competition, which is great,” she said.
“You also see a lot of men players’ daughters now coming in and giving cricket a go.
“I’ve played softball too and spent time helping coach young girls and it’s pretty rewarding to see them play at a higher level.
“You need to get young players coming through.”
Martin said she enjoyed having a “fresh start” at Mildura West last season.
“West had come last the previous year and didn’t have too many girls with experience to help develop the younger ones,” she said.
“So when they approached me I took the chance, and the fact we were able to win the premiership was great.
“Now I have the opportunity to help do the same back at my home club. Hopefully we can do the same thing and go on to win it all.
“There are a few girls from last year’s team who are still here, plus I’ve managed to recruit a few new girls to the sport as well. That’s one of the most important parts, bringing enough new people to the sport.
“As long as we can make it fun and everyone is enjoying it, that’s the best outcome.”
