My Passion: Love of cricket and football means fixtures 52 weeks a year

Having a football and cricket fanatic dad, as well as two brothers, I nurtured my passion from a young age. In the park it was two minutes on the swings and 22 minutes kicking a football and taking guard with a cricket bat.
By Louise Donnelly, administrator at Leeds-based Reward Capital, talks about her passion for the sporting life.
Published 6th Jan 2015, 11:00 BST

In the late 1990s, girls’ football in Harrogate, where I grew up, was in its infancy. It was often difficult getting 11 players but our enthusiasm always shone through.

Both football and cricket have taken me to grounds and pitches throughout the north of England.

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During a gap year in Australia, I ran football training sessions and matches in a school for children of different ages. I also joined a local ladies team, Coolum Football Club, that played in the premier division on the Sunshine Coast. It was much the same as the English game, but with much warmer and dryer weather conditions.

As a left footed player, I play on the left side of midfield and score the occasional goal. In cricket, I am a right arm spin bowler, and I often get into double figures with the bat.

I was honoured to be able to play for Yorkshire Cricket Club under 15’s and under 17’s. A proud moment for all the family was when we were under-17 county champions and the team was presented to on the pitch of a full Headingly Stadium.

Although a lot of friends I made there have moved on, we still remain in touch.

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In my teens, I also played for Bilton Cricket Club mens team. I thoroughly enjoyed playing for them but definitely got no allowances for being the only girl.

At school, my PE teachers were desperate for me to play netball, but I didn’t see the point in playing a game where you can’t move with the ball.

Today, my passion sees me playing for Pannal Cricket Club in the Ladies Nidderdale League and playing for Harrogate Railway Ladies FC in the Nidderdale League. Playing both summer and winter team sports means that I have a team fixture 52 weeks a year. I can’t complain though as I thoroughly enjoy playing.

Both games are great for overall fitness, they are fantastic for making friends and socialising, especially with post match refreshments. However, the main advantage of playing is being able to talk knowledgeably about the offside and LBW rules with my male bosses!

Related topics:HarrogateEnglandAustralia