FOR many community members, a local sporting club provides an inclusive family environment, and the Merbein Cricket Club is a shining example of that.
Recently, a number of longstanding members were recognised for their contribution at the club’s Hall of Fame night, servants that all in their own way have helped shape the culture at Chaffey Park.
John Hollywood (life member), Aaron Walder (hall of fame), Mark White (life membership and hall of fame) and Shane Trinick (hall of fame) were all highlighted, while 12 players, including the latter three were all recognised in the team of the decade.
Club president Carlo Longeri had nice words to say about all of them but gave props to Hollywood who he said was a large reason he held his current role.
“Personally I grew up with John and as he would tell you we didn’t come from the better part of town but getting in and around and giving back to the community and sporting clubs, they’re good places to be,” he said. “People like John really epitomise what we’re about.
“The other guys as well, contribution they make and still make to this day is enormous and doesn’t go unnoticed … to have guys like this around as cricketers and people makes us pretty lucky in that space.
“It was great to have some past players back to the club … we made it a real family night, Melville Lyons and the committee did a great job organising it.”
Hollywood gave an emotional recount of how important the club had been to him.
“It’s an honour … I actually grew up there, I didn’t have much as a kid, they’d always give me sneakers, bat, balls and they’d feed me at times, so it’s a real privilege to come back after serving in the army,” he said.
“Most of the other guys are a bit younger than me but they’ve all been great people at the club, great athletes that have developed into great men involved at the club.
“There’s lot of people that come before us and there’s lot of people that come after us … the club gave me what I lacked in my home life when I was younger and it’s great to be able to provide that.”
