Kingholm Look Forward To New Season

Feb 5 2010 Dumfries Standard Friday

ST MICHAEL'S Cricket Club 2nd XI, John Pagan & Son Kingholm, have been putting their plans in place for the new season following their tremendous promotion into Division 3 of the Western District Cricket Union.

The first piece of the jigsaw in place is the fantastic news that the 2009 team sponsor John Pagan & Son have committed to continue their support as St Michael's CC 2nd X1 main sponsor.

Kenny Hope of John Pagan & Son said of the ongoing partnership: "I am pleased to be associated with and continue to sponsor St Michael's Cricket Club.

“I would also like to congratulate them on their promotion and wish them every success in the coming season."

Last season's promotion was a sterling performance from the side, but the team are not prepared to rest on their laurels.

The team has a new captain for the 2010 season in the shape of Mark Pagan, a popular player known and respected by many cricketers in Dumfries and Galloway.

When asked about his ambition for the new season, Mark said: "We are delighted to gain promotion to Division 3 and I am proud to captain the side and look forward to many exciting matches with a good solid group of senior and junior players to work with.

“I feel the club overall is in a healthy position to move forward and keep this momentum going."

One of the key decisions for both the 2nd X1 and the club as a whole is that for the 2010 season and beyond, the club are committed to playing a minimum of two U16 players in all WDCU Division 3 league fixtures.

“This unanimous decision by the committee has been taken as the club firmly believes that the 2nd X1 is a vehicle for junior members to gain regular league cricket experience and should be the breeding ground for future 1st X1 players.

Junior Head Coach, Davey Fallas said: "We are all very proud of this initiative as it gives members of our junior section the opportunity to play competitive cricket at varying levels.

“As well as continuing with a strong junior contingent in the side that plays in the local mid week league, this positive decision to directly include juniors in the Saturday league and Sunday teams, will develop not only their cricketing ability but their confidence and self esteem."

Indoor nets for both junior and senior players start at Dumfries Academy Sports Hall on Sunday, March 7, 6-8pm.

Any potential new members wishing to come along and enjoy playing cricket can contact the following representatives:

Derek Heron 1st X1 Captain: 07894 193 412; Mark Pagan 2nd X1 Captain: 07849 126 320; Davey Fallas Junior Head Coach: 07739 261 305; Mike Lumb Club Secretary: 01387 810478.