Eastern Hill Cricket Club is set to move to the Gisborne District Cricket Association for the 2024/25 season, citing major changes to the SDCA regarding the senior and junior competitions operated by the association.
At its annual general meeting, the GDCA board and club delegates voted to accept Eastern Hill’s application to join the competition for the upcoming season.
Eastern Hill’s president Michael Brown said he was overwhelmed by the support the club has received for its application.
“We are thrilled to be joining the GDCA this season and thank the GDCA executive and delegates for their support.” Mr Brown said.
“We are excited to be able to provide our senior and junior players with new cricketing opportunities in a competition that is growing and thriving.”
The club said the decision to depart the SDCA had not been taken lightly given its long, proud and successful history within the Seymour competition.
“It’s been a big decision for our club to leave the SDCA, but after careful consideration, we believe this move aligns with the best interests of our members and players,” Mr Brown stated.
The president’s beliefs were echoed by A-grade captain Seamus Feery
“Our playing squad is really excited by this new challenge,” Mr Feery said.
Eastern Hill departure follows that of Kilmore in 2022 and Broadford in 2023.
Broadford and Eastern Hill had previously played each other in the SDCA’s A-grade grand final as recently as the 2021-2022 season.
GDCA president Simon Ovenden said Eastern Hill Cricket Club made an excellent presentation.
“It was clear to us that they would be an excellent fit with the GDCA,” Mr Ovenden said.
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