Earley Cricket Club
We are Earley Cricket Club in Reading started in 2007. The club is run by passionate volunteers, we have 50+ members from different age groups, ethnicity, and backgrounds. Our cricket club is not just a sports facility; it's a haven for camaraderie, a breeding ground for talent - some of the kids who started their journey here are playing county level cricket now, and a place where memories are made. We currently run the following teams:
- 2 Saturday League teams and 1 Sunday friendly
- 1 midweek team
- We are also starting a women's team from next year (2024).
Message from one of the members of Women's cricket team
What we need funding for?
Our club is run by the funds raised through memberships and fundraising events. In the last few years, we invested the money raised on Cricket pitch, nets, lawn mover, roller, pitch covers, shed etc.
Our club doesn't have a pavilion. When it rains or when its too hot etc. then there is nothing to protect members or spectators from the hot sun or rain apart from shed. This also impacts our club reputation and attracting new talent.
Why a Pavilion?
Player Comfort: A pavilion provides our players with the facilities for changing and spaces to strategize and unwind. It will also improve the reputation of the club and attract new talent.
Spectator Experience: For our supporters, a pavilion means comfortable seating, a place to savour the thrill of the game, and a hub for socializing.
Community Hub: Beyond the game, our pavilion will serve as a community hub for any future fund rising events like soft ball tournaments we have been conducting past few years and activities that strengthen the bonds that make our club a family.
How we’ll spend the money raised
We would like to invest in a pavilion that can provide basic facilities for players and spectators.
High level design of the pavilion below:
Location of the pavilion:
We will initiate the Planning permission application process with local council as soon as we have a clear picture of the available funds.
How much will it cost?
Estimated cost of the project is approximately £40,000. As a part of this campaign we trying to raise through grants, member donations and this crowdfunding appeal.
Community impact
This new facility will help us retain players, attract and encourage new players to join the club and local residents come and watch and support their local team. Local sports help build personal confidence, community engagement and a sense of belonging and security, especially for local young people.
How you can you help
We are reaching out to each one of you, our community, to be part of this journey. Your support is invaluable, and every contribution brings us closer to our goal. There are four simple ways to help us reach our target, and make this project a reality.
Individual Contributions: No amount is too small. Your individual contributions, combined, can make a significant impact.
In-Kind Donations: Contributions in the form of materials, equipment, or services are also crucial in making our vision a reality.
Spread the word. Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us! The more people we reach, the more support we will get.
Offer rewards. Get involved if you are a local business by donating things we can offer to our supporters. We will give you a shout out!