Interest in the sport of cricket has now spread to Skeena Middle School, with students receiving an introduction courtesy of members of the Terrace Cricket Club. For three days — May 19, May 23 and May 24 — Grade 8 students in teacher Ron Sidey’s physical education class learned about the intricacies of a sport that has millions of fans around the world, but is still relatively unknown in northwest B.C.
Sidey asked his class if they would be interested in knowing more about cricket after reading coverage of local cricketer’s efforts to acquire land for a cricket field and pitch.
He then contacted the Terrace Cricket Club and arranged for demonstration dates.
“The reception to learning the game has been extremely positive as the learning curve is fast. It’s extremely sociable and the required gear is minimal: two bats, a ball and some sticks,” Sidey said.
Sidey said the class would welcome the provision of a dedicated cricket playing field and pitch.
“We are sure if one was built, the Terrace Cricket Club would most likely offer a community event to get the rest of the city introduced to this fun and inclusive sport,” he added.
The Terrace Cricket Club and others are now in the process of forming a registered society to better apply for grants and to act as a central organization to advocate for the sport in Terrace and area.
Meetings have also been held with the City of Terrace as to playing field availability.
There are now three active teams in the area and matches are held at the large paved area at the Skeena Valley Guru Nanak Brotherhood Society temple location.