By Graeme Burrill
After several seasons away from the top tier, Helensburgh Cricket Club will make its long-awaited return to First Grade cricket in season 2025/26, a milestone that has generated excitement and pride throughout the local community.
Club President David Stewart said the step back into First Grade reflects years of persistence and hard work from players, volunteers, and supporters.
“Helensburgh’s return to First Grade is a huge milestone for the club and the community," he said.
"It shows how far we’ve come in rebuilding, and it gives the town a real sense of pride. Having top-level cricket back in Helensburgh means locals can once again watch quality competition close to home, and it reconnects the club with its proud history.”
David also highlighted the importance of the return for juniors. “This move gives our juniors a clear pathway from the grassroots right through to First Grade without leaving town. Seeing senior players compete at the highest level inspires younger cricketers to stick with the game and dream bigger.”
Head Coach Callum Hockey said the return is both a reward for the current squad and a motivator for the next generation.
“Being back in First Grade provides a vector for the aspirations of our talented cricketers throughout the club," Callum said.
"It is also an inspiration for our juniors coming through the system.
"Training with intent has been our focus in pre-season, supported by strength and conditioning coach Shem Hollands and assistant coach Vivek Ramakrishna. We’re also starting an academy-style program to nurture our juniors and prepare them for grade and representative cricket.”
The Tigers’ strong pre-season has been underpinned by inclusivity and depth right across the club. Callum credited volunteers and junior coaches such as committee member James Cattley for building participation at grassroots level, ensuring a steady stream of talent for years to come. “We’ve got some exciting players developing, and the numbers in our junior program mean we can continue to grow. The future looks very bright.”
For First Grade captain Will Hoy, leading the side in its comeback year is both a privilege and an exciting challenge. “I’m honoured and proud to be captaining Helensburgh in First Grade this season. We’ve added some quality new players alongside returning ones, and I believe we have the team to be competitive from the start. The boys have really embraced the challenge, and after a great pre-season we’re ready to show we belong at this level.”
With strong leadership, a dedicated coaching staff, and an eye firmly on the future, Helensburgh Cricket Club’s return to First Grade is about more than cricket — it’s about community pride, inspiring the next generation, and laying foundations for long-term success.
The Tigers invite the community to get behind the team this season — come along to home games, cheer loudly, and be part of Helensburgh’s First Grade return.
Saturday Action
- Helensburgh First Grade vs Wollongong at North Dalton Park - 2.10pm
- Helensburgh Second Grade vs Wollongong at North Dalton Park - 11am