BREAKING NEW GROUND VICTORIAN CRICKET PLANNING FORUM 4-5 JUNE 2016 South Australian Cricket Forum 2017 FORUM REPORT SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE - OUTCOMES AND RECOMMENDED ACTIONS
OUTCOMES & RECOMMENDED ACTIONS The following document provides an overview of outcomes and recommended actions identified by SMC Strategies (SMC) in response to the Cricket Connects Forum stakeholder consultation. These focus upon the following key areas: 1. Collaboration & Communication 2. Volunteers & Resources 3. Facilities 4. Flexibility & Formats 5. Profile & Visibility 6. Inclusion 7. The Cricket Connects Forum Commitment 8. Governance and decision-making processes SMC considers that the proposed actions contribute to the objectives of SACA s new five year strategy: SACA Strategy 2017-2022: We will transform junior cricket to be the number 1 sport for children in Australia Number 1 teams in all competitive formats, female and male We will be the leading sport for women and girls We will tailor the game to secure the future of cricket We will use technology to deliver great experiences for fans, participants and volunteers We will drive investment in the game via innovative revenue solutions We will support our strategy by: Sporting leader in stakeholder engagement People and culture are our top priority Best practice governance structures for cricket CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 1. COLLABORATION & COMMUNICATION ACTION 1.1 Continuation of the Cricket Connects engagement program. 1.2 Assignment of dedicated internal SACA resources to collaboratively develop and implement activity and programs arising from the results of Cricket Connects program consultation. 1.3 Sector based workshops. 1.4 Formation of ongoing issue-specific working groups as required. 1.5 Premier and community cricket player consultation. 1.6 A Cricket Connects Forum update meeting in late 2017 and early to mid 2018. 1.7 Collaborative development and implementation of a project plan to deliver on the Cricket Connects commitment. 1.8 Regular Cricket Connects activity updates and opportunities for contribution by all stakeholders. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 2. VOLUNTEERS & RESOURCES ACTION 2.1 In collaboration with Clubs and Associations, develop options for providing increased administrative assistance through SACA based and in-the-field resources. 2.2 In collaboration with Premier Clubs, investigate options for part-time paid administrative support (a matter raised in particular by Premier Clubs, where demands upon volunteer resources can be extremely high). 2.3 This should be aligned with Club delivery on specific objectives, including improved opportunities for junior cricket and girls and women s cricket development and regional zone contribution. 2.4 Identify options for how SACA (in collaboration with Cricket Australia) can provide improved programs and resources directly assisting Clubs with volunteer attraction, recognition, management and training. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 3. FACILITIES ACTION 3.1 SMC understands that SACA is currently developing a new South Australian Infrastructure Strategy that will identify priorities, strategies and key actions in regard to facilities provision and development over the next ten years. 3.2 SMC understands that this is being delivered and supported by the appointment of a new State Infrastructure Manager in late 2017. 3.3 The Infrastructure Strategy will be informed and supported by Cricket Australia s National Facilities Audit results, together with consultation with local governments, Clubs and Associations. Knowledge of local needs and capacity will be a key plank in achieving required future facilities funding, development and provision. 3.4 SACA should consider working more closely with Clubs and Associations to achieve improved local government relationships and awareness of cricket s community role and facility requirements. 3.5 SACA should consider working more closely with State Government to increase and accelerate investment in development of gender equal facilities for cricket, including female change rooms. 3.6 SACA should consider developing a strategy in consultation with stakeholders to achieve increased shared use of schools facilities. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 4. FLEXIBILITY & FORMATS ACTION 4.1 SACA should consider establishing a working group composed of representatives of all levels and sectors to explore competition structure and format options and identify potential reforms for implementation. 4.2 SACA should consider working directly with girls and women s cricket representatives to identify flexible approaches to formats that will encourage greater participation. 4.3 New formats might also be collaboratively explored for social cricket, with the potential to develop a game format (including modified equipment) capable of play between males and females together. 4.4 SACA should consider consulting with male and female Premier and community cricket players to identify appropriate approaches to competition fixturing that achieve balance between formats (and alignment with elite levels). 4.5 Collaborative exploration by SACA and stakeholders of potential for greater integration with school programs. 4.6 Joint development and implementation of a project plan related to the Cricket Connects commitment will contribute to this process (see Section 7 below). CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 5. PROFILE & VISIBILITY ACTION 5.1 SACA should consider establishing a girls and womens cricket working group (consisting of representatives of all levels) to identify means to more strongly promote the female game. 5.2 SACA should consider working to ensure that current South Australian female cricketers and Australian stars are engaged in a coordinated program of promotion including regular Club visits and community activity. 5.3 SACA should consider strongly supporting Premier and community cricket clubs and Associations in renewed efforts to promote the game locally. SACA has significant capacity to promote the game through social media channels and it is considered that there is opportunity to heighten focus on the local game and participants through these means. 5.4 A specific local cricket marketing campaign, including social and traditional media, to be rolled out at season commencement, could also be considered for investment and development. This could be developed in a manner that also allows Club and Association to tailor campaigns to their local markets. 5.5 SACA should consider working directly with indoor cricket representatives to achieve improved visibility and integrated promotion. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 6. INCLUSION ACTION 6.1 There are excellent examples in other states of how individual Clubs and Associations (with the support of the State Association and local governments) can very effectively engage with and support new arrivals and young people of diverse cultural backgrounds. 6.2 SACA should consider establishing an inclusion working group to identify strategies to improve inclusion and diversity at Club and Association level. 6.3 Opportunities and programs aimed at increasing Club engagement with multicultural communities should be explored (including new competitions and formats), along with working in partnership with State Government and Inclusive Sports SA to deliver new programs for all abilities participants. 6.4 SACA should consider working more directly with Clubs and Associations to develop, support and resource multicultural strategies. 6.5 As part of the Cricket Connects commitment action plan, cricket stakeholders should work together to identify ways to make the game more inclusive and fun for all. This should include creative exploration of new formats, social competitions and events. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 7. CRICKET CONNECTS COMMITMENT ACTION 7.1 Creation of a Cricket Connects Working Group representing all levels and sectors of cricket with a clearly defined charter, objectives and timeline for draft Action Plan delivery. 7.2 Allocation of dedicated SACA resources in support of the Working Group and the resulting Action Plan. 7.3 Joint commitment by SACA and the cricket community to implementing the Action Plan within defined timelines. 7.4 In SMC s view, the Action Plan should recognise and deliver on One Team principles and increase South Australian cricket s capacity to fully realise the value of Cricket Australia support. 7.5 In SMC s view, the Action Plan should also recognise the importance of achieving State and local government support for the growth of cricket in South Australia. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS AREA 8. GOVERNANCE & DECISION MAKING PROCESSES ACTION SMC understands that SACA has been exploring governance reform options at Board and management levels for some time. SMC understands that SACA is now employing significant resources in undertaking a full consultation process with members and SA cricket stakeholders to develop broad reform proposals to be put to a vote of the membership at a Special General Meeting, which is expected to be held prior to the end of May 2018. SMC recommends that the consultation process include: Direct member and cricket stakeholder communications and consultation Direct engagement with the Grade Cricket Committee in relation to possible changes to the current Grade Cricket Committee model Opportunities for contribution to and comment on reform proposals Presentation of reform proposals to members and stakeholders Three open member information and feedback sessions to be held before 31 May 2018. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
1. COLLABORATION & COMMUNICATION OUTCOMES SMC considers that there was a strong desire demonstrated by all sectors to actively engage in the Cricket Connects consultation program and, in the great majority of cases, a keen appreciation that this was an important opportunity to be heard and contribute to future planning. A strong theme that emerged was that many sectors of the South Australian cricket community felt that improved and ongoing opportunities for communication and collaboration (at all levels) were critical to the future growth of the game. While in some cases it was felt that this should be led by SACA, it was also clear that, by the end of the Cricket Connects Forum, participants recognised a strong need for Clubs and Associations to also take action themselves to communicate and work more closely together. By way of example, numerous Forum participants reported having made meaningful new connections (particularly between Premier Clubs and community Clubs) that had not been forged before. This clear desire for deeper connection between the various sectors was also strongly reflected in the Cricket Connects commitment endorsed by Forum participants. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS In SMC s view, the continued nurturing of new opportunities for engagement, communication and collaborative planning will strongly underpin future success. SACA should consider the following actions: 1.1 Continuation of the Cricket Connects engagement program. 1.2 Assignment of dedicated internal SACA resources to collaboratively develop and implement activity and programs arising from the results of Cricket Connects program consultation. 1.3 Sector based workshops. 1.4 Formation of ongoing issue-specific working groups as required. 1.5 Premier and Community player consultation. 1.6 A Cricket Connects Forum update meeting in late 2017 and early to mid 2018. 1.7 Collaborative development and implementation of a project plan to deliver on the Cricket Connects commitment. 1.8 Regular Cricket Connects activity updates and opportunities for contribution by all stakeholders. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
2. VOLUNTEERS & RESOURCES OUTCOMES Issues regarding volunteer resources, retention, management and co-ordination were highlighted by the Forum participants. SMC recognises that growing participation also places greater demands on Club and Association resources, with many stakeholders identifying the fulfillment of administrative and operational needs as a present and increasing challenge. Responses from Clubs and Associations demonstrated recognition that these issues will not be solved by increased financial investment alone and that there is joint responsibility to ensure that existing resources are effectively employed. However, there are also clear areas where Clubs and Associations identify the need for greater support. These include assistance with administrative and operational requirements, volunteer attraction and training, coaching resources and training, umpiring and delivery of inclusion programs. The role of SACA development and community engagement officers is in general valued but Clubs and Associations also identified the need for increased support from these areas. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 2.1 In collaboration with Clubs and Associations, develop options for providing increased administrative assistance through SACA based and in-the-field resources. 2.2 In collaboration with Premier Clubs, investigate options for part-time paid administrative support (a matter raised in particular by Premier Clubs, where demands upon volunteer resources can be extremely high). 2.3 This should be aligned with Club delivery on specific objectives, including improved opportunities for junior cricket and girls and women s cricket development and regional zone contribution. 2.4 Identify options for how SACA (in collaboration with Cricket Australia) can provide improved programs and resources directly assisting Clubs with volunteer attraction, recognition, management and training. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
3. FACILITIES OUTCOMES A lack of availability of appropriate, good quality facilities in some metropolitan and regional areas was identified by stakeholders at all levels as a key obstacle to participation opportunities, access and growth. This was considered to be of particular importance in regard to providing sufficient access for junior cricket and encouraging growth in girls and women s cricket participation. While it was recognised that facilities development is a current strategic priority for both Cricket Australia and SACA, with increased resourcing being allocated, stakeholders identified that a cohesive approach to facilities development would be beneficial. In SMC s view, nurturing strong Cricket Australia, State Government and local government relationships, together with collaborative planning, will be critical to future facilities development funding and realisation. Improved club and Association engagement with local government will also be critical to facilities provision and development. The potential for greater shared use of school facilities for matches, training and program delivery was also identified by participants as a means to alleviate facility challenges. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 3.1 SMC understands that SACA is currently developing a new South Australian Infrastructure Strategy that will identify priorities, strategies and key actions in regard to facilities provision and development over the next ten years. 3.2 SMC understands that this is being delivered and supported by the appointment of a new State Infrastructure Manager in late 2017. 3.3 The Infrastructure Strategy will be informed and supported by Cricket Australia s National Facilities Audit results, together with consultation with local governments, Clubs and Associations. Knowledge of local needs and capacity will be a key plank in achieving required future facilities funding, development and provision. 3.4 SACA should consider working more closely with Clubs and Associations to achieve improved local government relationships and awareness of cricket s community role and facility requirements. 3.5 SACA should consider working more closely with State Government to increase and accelerate investment in development of gender equal facilities for cricket, including change rooms. 3.6 SACA should consider developing a strategy in consultation with stakeholders to achieve increased shared use of schools facilities. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
4. FLEXIBILITY & FORMATS OUTCOMES Many stakeholders identified an opportunity to attract and retain participation through enabling a flexible approach to formats, particularly for junior cricket and girl s and women s cricket, as well as in regional areas. Due to its capacity to be played over a shorter time frame, T20 cricket is seen as the most attractive format. This aligns with Cricket Australia s strong focus on T20 cricket and introduction of revised formats for entry level and junior cricket. Stakeholders identified shorter format games as having the potential to alleviate issues with ground availability and access, by permitting more games to be played. Indoor cricket is seen as a means to maintain and increase engagement with cricket through the 14-25 year old age group. Better linkage and integration with school cricket programs was also identified as a means to further encourage and maintain participation. In SMC s view, the introduction of modified and more flexible formats is critical to promoting participation, ensuring that all who wish to play the game can, to allow maximum use of available facility resources. Providing a range of format options has the potential to keep more people playing the game for longer. With increasing competition not only from other sports but lifestyle factors, it is also important that cricket maximises its attraction by offering time-friendly options for play. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 4.1 SACA should consider establishing a working group composed of representatives of all levels and sectors to explore competition structure and format options and identify potential reforms for implementation. 4.2 SACA should consider working directly with girls and women s cricket representatives to identify flexible approaches to formats that will encourage greater participation. 4.3 New formats might also be collaboratively explored for social cricket, with the potential to develop a game format (including modified equipment) capable of play between males and females together. 4.4 SACA should consider consulting with male and female Premier and community cricket players to identify appropriate approaches to competition fixturing that achieve balance between formats (and alignment with elite levels) 4.5 Collaborative exploration by SACA and stakeholders of potential for greater integration with school programs 4.6 Joint development and implementation of an action plan related to the Cricket Connects commitment will contribute to this process (see Section 7 below). CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
5. PROFILE & VISIBILITY OUTCOMES Premier Clubs, Associations and community cricket clubs all identified raising the profile and visibility of the game at community level as vital to attracting and growing participation and support. Representatives of girls and women s cricket, in particular, considered that stronger promotion was critical to future success. Many responses centred around the need to create heroes for new and aspiring participants and increase awareness of the opportunities for young girls to play (and progress through) the game. Stakeholders also identified the potential for greater use of modern marketing channels (e.g. social media) by Clubs as a means to achieve higher levels of connection and visibility. Creating local heroes was also raised as a means of lifting the profile of the game and driving higher levels of community connection. The unified promotion of cricket in all formats (including indoor cricket) was seen by some stakeholders as important to creating the strongest profile for the game and helping to achieve participation growth. Being the leading sport for women and girls is a key strategic objective in SACA and Australian Cricket s 2022 Strategy. It is a critical area for cricket, particularly in light of the high level of activity undertaken by competing sports in this area. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017 5.1 SACA should consider establishing a girls and womens cricket working group (consisting of representatives of all levels) to identify means to more strongly promote the female game. 5.2 SACA should consider working to ensure that current South Australian female cricketers and Australian stars are engaged in a coordinated program of promotion including regular Club visits and community activity. 5.3 SACA should consider strongly supporting Premier and community cricket clubs and Associations in renewed efforts to promote the game locally. SACA has significant capacity to promote the game through social media channels and it is considered that there is opportunity to heighten focus on the local game and participants through these means. 5.4 A specific local cricket marketing campaign, including social and traditional media, to be rolled out at season commencement, could also be considered for investment and development. This could be developed in a manner that also allows Club and Association to tailor campaigns to their local markets. 5.5 SACA should consider working directly with indoor cricket representatives to achieve improved visibility and integrated promotion.
6. INCLUSION OUTCOMES The importance of cricket in South Australia as being a game that welcomes, supports and encourages all who desire to play the game and makes it fun for all - no matter their cultural background or abilities, was strongly recognised by stakeholders. Forum participants were highly engaged in listening to and articulating views on how inclusion could be enhanced at Club level. SACA s strong investment in support for and delivery of inclusion programs (including the new All Abilities Development Academy) was acknowledged and supported. Key measures identified to improve inclusivity in cricket included: higher levels of Club engagement, education and training the co-ordination of more events for multicultural and all abilities cricket promoting awareness among the cricket community of the benefits and means of inclusion making the game more fun and accessible In SMC s view, a high level of commitment to inclusion at Club and Association levels is vital to South Australian cricket s growth and sustained success. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS 6.1 There are excellent examples in other states of how individual Clubs and Associations (with the support of the State Association and local governments) can very effectively engage with and support new arrivals and young people of diverse cultural backgrounds. These should be explored by SACA, Clubs and Associations. 6.2 SACA should consider establishing an inclusion working group to identify strategies to improve inclusion and diversity at Club and Association level. 6.3 Opportunities and programs aimed at increasing Club engagement with multicultural communities should be explored (including new competitions and formats), along with working in partnership with State Government and Inclusive Sports SA to deliver new programs for all abilities participants. 6.4 SACA should consider working more directly with Clubs and Associations to develop, support and resource multicultural strategies. 6.5 As part of the Cricket Connects commitment action plan, cricket stakeholders should work together to identify ways to make the game more inclusive and fun for all. This should include creative exploration of new formats, social competitions and events. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
7. CRICKET CONNECTS COMMITMENT OUTCOMES The Cricket Connects commitment provides a powerful basis for addressing many current challenges and opportunities identified by stakeholders. In SMC s view, the future success of cricket in South Australia (and across Australia) will be highly dependent upon its ability to maintain and build attraction to people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. In particular, growing and retaining participation at entry- to-junior level and in girl s and women s cricket is critically reliant upon ensuring that Clubs provide a welcoming, fun, family-friendly and inclusive culture - together with offering programs, opportunities and facilities that promote gender equity and access for people of all backgrounds and abilities. It was recognised by SA cricket stakeholders that if Clubs are to more closely and effectively connect with their communities, then increased efforts need to be made to build knowledge of the local market. Club promotion, programs and participation opportunities can then be tailored accordingly. The Cricket Connects commitment creates an obligation on the part of SACA, Clubs and Associations to work honestly and openly with each other to create an Action Plan to achieve the key goals. In SMC s view, this is central to the collaborative approach to planning and reforms that is desired by SACA and cricket community stakeholders. Importantly, it offers an unprecedented opportunity to harness the great knowledge and experience residing in the South Australian cricket family at Club and Association levels to address current issues, grasp future opportunity and realise the full capacity of the game to connect and serve the community. The desire of Premier Clubs and community clubs to work together to create better opportunities for cricket participants is CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
7. CRICKET CONNECTS COMMITMENT RECOMMENDED ACTIONS In SMC s view, investment of time and resources in developing a collaborative action plan will: deliver the unified engine that drives positive change create the capacity to develop real and innovative solutions to key issues foster a culture of collective endeavour that will support the future health and growth of South Australian cricket. Importantly, it will offer an unprecedented opportunity to harness the great knowledge and experience residing in the South Australian cricket family at Club and Association levels to address current issues, grasp future opportunity and realise the full capacity of the game to connect and serve the community. The desire of Premier Clubs and community clubs to work together to create better opportunities for cricket participants is evident and will also be critical to Action Plan development and implementation. The keys to success discussed and endorsed by Forum participants (as included in the Forum report) should form key focus areas for Action Plan development. SMC considers that the next steps should include the following actions. 7.1 Creation of a Cricket Connects Working Group representing all levels and sectors of cricket with a clearly defined charter, objectives and timeline for draft Action Plan delivery. 7.2 Allocation of dedicated SACA resources in support of the Working Group and the resulting Action Plan. 7.3 Joint commitment by SACA and the cricket community to implementing the Action Plan within defined timelines. 7.4 In SMC s view, the Action Plan should recognise and deliver on One Team principles and increase South Australian cricket s capacity to fully realise the value of Cricket Australia support. 7.5 In SMC s view, the Action Plan should also recognise the importance of achieving State and local government support for the growth of cricket in South Australia. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
8. GOVERNANCE & DECISION MAKING PROCESSES OUTCOMES When Cricket Connect Forum participants were asked What is required for SA cricket to be able to make the best decisions to overcome identified challenges? as part of the table exercises at the Cricket Connects Forum, a significant number of responses related to a desire for SACA governance reform. While these responses varied in nature, a common theme was a desire for change to constitutional arrangements regarding decision making processes and Board of Management structure. A desire for changes to the current Grade Cricket Committee model was also noted by numerous stakeholders. SMC considers that constitutional change will be critical to achieving the governance structure that will enable South Australian cricket to work most effectively together and fully capitalise on future opportunity. There was also recognition by numerous stakeholders that greater collaboration and communication at all levels of SA cricket would contribute to enhanced decision- making for the benefit of all. RECOMMENDED ACTIONS SMC understands that SACA has been exploring governance reform options at Board and management levels for some time. SMC understands that SACA is now employing significant resources in undertaking a full consultation process with members and SA cricket stakeholders to develop broad reform proposals to be put to a vote of the membership at a Special General Meeting, which is expected to be held prior to the end of May 2018. 8.1 SMC recommends that the consultation process include: Direct member and cricket stakeholder communications and consultation Direct engagement with the Grade Cricket Committee in relation to possible changes to the current Grade Cricket Committee model Opportunities for contribution to and comment on reform proposals Presentation of reform proposals to members and stakeholders Three open member information and feedback sessions to be held before 31 May 2018. CRICKET CONNECTS - SMC STRATEGIES RESPONSE OCTOBER 2017
BREAKING NEW GROUND VICTORIAN CRICKET PLANNING FORUM 4-5 JUNE 2016 FORUM REPORT South Australian Cricket Forum 2017
Contents 1. Introduction 3 2. Pre-Forum Stakeholder Engagement 4 3. Forum Snapshot 5 4. Program 6 5. Participants 9 6. Proceedings 12 7. Pre-Forum Survey 13 8. Session Reports 14 9. The Cricket Connects Commitment 28 The Cricket Connects Forum was delivered by independent consultants SMC Strategies in August 2017 as part of an ongoing consultation program with South Australian cricket stakeholders. This report has been prepared and produced by SMC Strategies for the information of participants.
INTRODUCTION SMC Strategies would like to thank all members of the South Australian cricket family who participated in the initial phase of the Cricket Connects consultation program from June to August 2017. The willingness of people from diverse cricket sectors, backgrounds and localities across the State to come together to share their views and engage was both impressive and a positive demonstration of cricket s power to connect. We hope that you also share our belief that the process has provided a strong foundation for future collaboration by South Australian cricket stakeholders that will drive change benefiting all who enjoy and participate in the game. Cricket truly does connect and we believe that South Australia has an important opportunity to be the most connected, inclusive and innovative cricket state in Australia.
PRE-FORUM STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT While this report (and the accompanying summary of outcomes and recommended actions) relate specifically to the Cricket Connects Forum, the Forum program was also informed by direct consultation by SMC Strategies that included: Consultation meetings conducted by SMC Strategies with representatives of over thirty South Australian cricket community stakeholders in the period June July 2017. Sectors consulted included: SACA Grade Cricket Committee and SACA Game Development Committee Premier (Grade) Cricket Clubs Women s Premier Cricket Working Group Metropolitan Senior & Junior Cricket Associations and Clubs Regional Senior & Junior Cricket Associations and Clubs Multicultural Cricket All Abilities Cricket Indoor Cricket An opt-in online membership survey provided to all SACA members in July 2017. The survey invited members to identify key issues and opportunities for South Australian cricket. Over 1250 responses were received. In response to the question What one thing would you most like to see change in relation to South Australian cricket, the top five areas of response were matters relating to: 1. ADELAIDE OVAL EVENTS 2. SHEFFIELD SHIELD CRICKET 3. GRASSROOTS & JUNIOR CRICKET 4. PREMIER CRICKET 5. HIGH PERFORMANCE A pre-forum survey provided to all Cricket Connects Forum participants in August 2017 (see P13)
Belinda Clark AM and Greg Chappell MBE addressing the Cricket Connects Forum dinner
100 PARTICIPANTS REPRESENTING ALL SECTORS OF SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CRICKET SESSIONS OVER 2 DAYS INCLUDING PRESENTATIONS, INTERVIEWS & DISCUSSION PANELS 10 500+ RESPONSES TO GROUP QUESTIONS, SURVEYS AND EXERCISES PRESENTERS & PANELLISTS 36
SATURDAY 12 AUGUST - AFTERNOON SATURDAY 12 AUGUST - EVENING
SUNDAY 13 AUGUST
1. FORUM PARTICIPANTS Over 130 people representing all sectors of South Australian cricket were invited to attend the forum. Over 90 accepted the invitation to attend and participated over the two days at Adelaide Hills Convention Centre in Hahndorf on Saturday 12 August and Sunday 13 August 2017. The attendees represented: Metropolitan Clubs & Associations (Senior & Junior) Regional Clubs & Associations (Senior & Junior) All Premier Cricket Clubs Regional Zone Cricket Councils Multicultural Cricket All Abilities Cricket Adelaide Strikers SA Country Cricket Committee SACA Game Development Committee Umpires & Scorers School Sport SA Inclusive Sport SA South Australian Cricket Association (SACA) Cricket Australia Also in attendance were representatives of the following organisations: Local Government State Government of South Australia SA Office for Recreation and Sport South Australian media (Andrew Capel - Adelaide Advertiser)
FORUM PRESENTERS & PANEL MEMBERS South Australian Assistant Minister to the Premier & Chair - SA Women in Sport Taskforce - Hon Katrine Hildyard MP Shadow Minister for Sport & Recreation - Corey Wingard MP Belinda Clark AM Greg Chappell MBE SACA President - Andrew Sinclair SACA CEO - Keith Bradshaw Cricket Australia - John Watkin Cricket Australia One Team consultant - Sean Faerhmann Adelaide Strikers General Manager - Bronwyn Klei Cricket Connects Panel David Heyzer (EO - Adelaide Turf Cricket Association) Arnold Kretschmer (President - Western Suburbs Junior Cricket Association) Vicki Venning (NE Junior Cricket Association, Strikers Girls League) Paul Charman (President - Southern District Cricket Club) James Lang (SACA Game Development Committee, SACA Country Cricket Committee) Robert Snewin (President - Glenelg District Cricket Club) Jake Brown (Captain - Kensington Cricket Club) Clearing the Boundaries (Girls and Women in Cricket) Panel Sonya Thompson (Cricket Victoria, Head of Female Cricket) Denis Brien (President - West Torrens Cricket Club) Vanessa Walker (Former Secretary - Woodville District Cricket Club, SACA Senior Operations Manager) Susie Smith (Chair - Women s Premier Cricket Working Group, SACA Game Development Committee) Scott Smith (Mid North Strikers Girls League convenor, Country Cricket Sub-Committee) Rebecca Law (Women s co-ordinator and Player - Adelaide University Cricket Club) A Game For All - Grassroots Cricket Panel Tanya McGregor (Co-chair - Aboriginal Cricket Advisory Committee) Kylie Taylor (GM - SA Office for Recreation & Sport) Deepak Chetry (Friendship Cup Team Co-ordinator, Adelaide University Cricket Club) James Neiderer (Junior Co-ordinator - Reynella Cricket Club) Lee Spurling (President - Murray Districts Cricket Association) Jess O Reilly (Indoor Cricket Player/Coach/Convenor, Premier Cricket Player/Women s Co-ordinator - Southern District Cricket Club) A Game For All - Inclusion Panel Joanna Connolly (Manager - Australian Cricketers with an Intellectual Disability Team) Eugene Negruk (President - Blind Cricket SA) Nathan Pepper (Sport & Recreation Co-ordinator - Inclusive Sport SA) Justin Millard (President SA Deaf Fire CC, State Deaf Cricket Team Member Heart of the Game - Volunteers Panel Bronwyn Klei (Adelaide Strikers, President - Hills Netball Association) Brett Nitschke (Junior President - Barossa and Light Cricket Association) Jonno De Conno (Treasurer - NE Junior Cricket Association) Elaine Figallo (President - Para Districts CA, Women s Community Cricket Competition Convenor) Andrew Caldwell (Committee Member - SA Metropolitan CA, Life Member Para Hills Cricket Club)
2. FORUM PROCEEDINGS Forum Facilitator - Ron Steiner Ron is an experienced conference facilitator whose career has included extensive periods in senior executive roles with Australian Cricket and Australian Rugby, working closely with senior executives and senior coaches of Australian companies and teams. He presently mentors and coaches a number of senior executives at the MD and GM level across a range of industries and is Director of the Australian Drug Foundation; Life Member Melbourne University Cricket Club and Weary Dunlop Club; member of the Melbourne University International Law Public Advisory Board. Forum Sessions & Activity Each of the forum sessions included extensive opportunities for response from all participants, in the following forms: Group table discussions and provision of oral responses to the Forum by table leaders Text responses and scored ratings in response to survey questions through the Forum polling app Questions and comment from individual Forum participants to discussion panel members and presenters Opportunities for all individual participants to address the entire Forum group on specific and general themes of interest Response Collection & Analysis All responses were collected and recorded through the Forum polling app and in written form. See following sections for summary and analysis of responses to key questions. Table Groupings Day 1 - participants were seated at tables of eight in mixed groups Day 2 - participants were loosely grouped at tables by sector (e.g. Premier cricket, regional and metropolitan cricket etc.)
3. PRE-FORUM SURVEY Prior to the Forum, all participants were invited to respond to a simple anonymous survey, consisting of the following two questions: What do you consider to be the three key challenges facing South Australian cricket? What do you consider to be the three key opportunities for South Australian cricket? The charts at right display the top five ranked results from the 53 survey respondents. All responses have been collated and will be retained for future reference in South Australian cricket planning. RANK RESPONSE CATEGORY 1 ATTRACTING & RETAINING PARTICIPATION 2 VOLUNTEERS & RESOURCES 3 OVALS & FACILITIES (QUALITY & ACCESS) 4 ELITE DEVELOPMENT & REDBACKS SUCCESS 5 CLUB FUNDING & COSTS KEY CHALLENGES FACING SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CRICKET RANK 1 2 RESPONSE CATEGORY CONTINUED GROWTH OF GIRLS AND WOMEN S CRICKET JUNIOR CRICKET - FORMATS, PROGRAMS & COMPETITION DEVELOPMENT 3 CLUB CRICKET & VOLUNTEER SUPPORT 4 FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT & INVESTMENT 5 SUCCESS OF STATE TEAMS KEY OPPORTUNITIES FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CRICKET
SESSION 1 KEY POINTS State of the Game Presented by SACA CEO, Keith Bradshaw Overview of the strong participation growth of South Australian cricket, particularly at Club, entry and junior levels over the last decade. Review of the last occasion that representatives of SA cricket came together at a conference to discuss challenges and opportunities in May 2007. Key issues identified at that conference remain pertinent today. Summary of SACA s diverse areas of responsibility and oversight of the SA game. Summary of the SACA s new five-year strategic plan to 2022 and its alignment with Cricket Australia objectives. This included a snapshot of areas where SACA is increasing investment, including community cricket, high performance, female athletes, elite juniors and securing quality elite cricket event content. Summary of the key challenges facing SA cricket and the need for a creative, shared approach to attracting and retaining participation, underpinned by a strong commitment to listen to each other and work together.
One Team: Australian Cricket John Watkin - Cricket Australia Head of Game and Market Development Sean Faerhmann - Cricket Australia One Team Consultant SESSION 2 KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Sean Faerhmann provided an overview of CA s One Team objectives: Unify cricket through national leadership with the collaboration of all states Reduce inefficiencies and costs arising from lack of co-ordination so that greater investment could be made in the game, particularly at grassroots levels Draw individual boards and management together and seek active planning contributions from all states John Watkin provided an overview of national game and market development objectives: Focus on investment in grassroots cricket is best way of future-proofing the game Improved, shared approach to achieving key facilities development through increased resources at State level Focus on bolstering State and local government relations networks to increase facilities funding Focus on improved technology for grassroots competitions (My Cricket scoring, Help Desk etc.) Better talent identification and coaching resources CA to assist in training and on ground resources
SESSION 2 ONE TEAM: AUSTRALIAN CRICKET QUESTIONS Each table was requested to respond to the following question. What is the single most important thing that South Australian cricket needs to respond to? Grouped responses are listed below: AREA RESPONSE TOTAL FLEXIBILITY & FORMATS Flexibility in formats for different levels, abilities and communities 4 VOLUNTEERS Support for volunteers 3 CLUB INVESTMENT Greater participation at grassroots level requires greater investment, resources and support ENGAGEMENT/CHANGE Engage at all levels and embrace change 2 RETAIN PARTICIPATION Retention of players following junior pathway 1 SCHOOLS Promotion in schools 1 WHAT IS THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT THING THAT SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CRICKET NEEDS TO RESPOND TO? 3
SESSION 3 KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Cricket Connects Panel Discussion and Forum Q & A PANEL DISCUSSION Drop off of junior players from 14 years onward Club capacity to field and support teams at all age groups. Junior development is suffering in some areas through lack of resources and ground access. Lack of people willing/able to devote volunteer time, and increased support for volunteers needed. Could Clubs better use Council volunteer support and recruitment resources? Lack of access to school facilities, requires government support. Lack of direct funding to support facilities required for community Clubs, therefore can t support participation growth. More development officers required to support Clubs, volunteers and relationships with Local Government. Possibility of a paid administrator for each Premier Club? Better representation of all sectors to SACA decision making processes would be desirable Need more focus on community cricket. Can Clubs also be more pro-active in generating and using own resources? Better linkage and communication between Premier Clubs/Community Clubs is desired (raised by both Premier and Community Club representatives). Potential for a club Cricket Council to assist alignment and co-ordination? Community clubs to better communicate their needs to Premier Clubs? Greater profile for Premier Clubs and competitions desired Can SACA provide a subsidy to reduce cost to parents/players?
SESSION 4 KEY DISCUSSION POINTS Clearing The Boundaries - Girls and Women in Cricket Panel Discussion and Forum Q & A The panel discussion and subsequent forum response raised the following key points: The general culture of cricket could still be more welcoming to girls need more role models, better opportunities, more equitable facilities and males supporting the development of female cricket at Club level. Girls and women s cricket remains an afterthought for some Clubs. Pathways for girls must be more clearly defined and supported. Representation of girls and women s cricket on Grade Cricket Committee is desirable. Enabling women to make decisions on what is best for the female game. Clubs must talk to participants to identify their needs. Provide opportunity for girls to customise the way they play and adapt to the desires of their communities. Make the game more accessible to anyone who wants to participate by enabling flexible formats and times of play. Must build the female cricket brand and create heroes use social media and all available channels. Cricket has an opportunity to be gender equal like tennis and hockey. Assistant Minister to the Premier Hon Katrine Hildyard MP addresses the Clearing the Boundaries session
SESSION 4 CLEARING THE BOUNDARIES QUESTIONS Each table was requested to respond to the following question. Nominate two ways to promote growth in girls and women s cricket Grouped responses are listed below: AREA RESPONSE TOTAL MARKETING Marketing, social media, community visibility and promotion of elite players/heroes 7 SCHOOL PROGRAMS School program linkage 4 CLUB CULTURE Cultural change clubs to embrace and support equal opportunity 2 WBBL Capitalise on WBBL success 1 COACHES/OFFICIALS More encouragement and support for female coaches and officials 1 CA GRANTS Better take up and utilisation of CA s grant programs 1 OTHER SPORTS Partner with off-season sports 1 FIXTURING Program games to align with men s cricket one club approach 1 GRADE CRICKET COMMITTEE Representation on Grade Cricket Committee NOMINATE TWO WAYS TO PROMOTE GROWTH IN GIRLS AND WOMEN S CRICKET 1
SESSION 5 KEY DISCUSSION POINTS A Game for All (Grassroots) Panel Discussion and Forum Q & A The panel discussion and subsequent forum response raised the following key points: New and flexible formats are required to maintain and grow participation. T20 cricket is highly important to generate interest among juniors and multicultural cricket. Clubs must become more family friendly and reflective of the composition of their communities. Effort is needed to break the cricket tradition barriers junior cricketers don t care about historical differences and divisions. Indoor cricket plays a big role in participation but does not receive sufficient resourcing or promotion. Communications between outdoor/indoor cricket is poor. Clubs must become multicultural community champions. Increased understanding and communication between Community and Premier Clubs is vital. Need more blue sky thinking about structure of cricket at all levels in ten years time. Need for more homogenous competition structure at junior level, promoting the same pathway no matter where you play. Primary school cricket needs to be linked and elevated.
A Game for All - Inclusion Panel Discussion & Forum Q & A SESSION 6 KEY DISCUSSION POINTS The panel discussion and subsequent forum response raised the following key points: High current level of support from SACA for All Abilities cricket, including new Development Academy and covering of player s costs Often lacking numbers in Blind Cricket to play against Club and social sides Inclusive Sports SA are looking to Clubs to take on and develop programs, but must be able to sustain support and delivery Clubs may be unaware of where to get support, education and advice this can be alleviated by consulting with SACA community engagement team and parents of players Inclusion must be driven by authentic desire on part of Clubs, not just attracting grants Potential to centralise support for running of programs and take pressure off Clubs
SESSION 5 & 6 A GAME FOR ALL QUESTION 1 Each table was requested to respond to the following question. What are two key things that your organisation could be doing to improve cricket in South Australia? Grouped responses are listed below: AREA RESPONSE TOTAL CLUB CULTURE Make the Club more friendly, welcoming and inclusive 4 MARKETING Promote the game through modern channels & create local heroes 3 CUSTOMER KNOWLEDGE GIRLS & WOMENS CRICKET Better understanding of our communities and customers and bring different community groups together Encourage girls and women s cricket integration and participation FLEXIBILITY & FORMATS Offer new formats and opportunities 1 INDOOR/OUTDOOR CRICKET Break down barriers between indoor and outdoor cricket ALL ABILITIES CRICKET Promote All Abilities cricket through more inclusive, diverse events 1 MULTICULTURAL Multicultural cricket T20 concept to be explored 1 PREMIER/COMMUNITY Work in partnership with Premier Clubs 1 WHAT ARE TWO KEY THINGS THAT YOUR ORGANISATION COULD BE DOING TO IMPROVE CRICKET IN SA? 3 2 1
Heart of the Game (The Volunteer Challenge) Panel Discussion & Forum Q & A SESSION 7 KEY DISCUSSION POINTS The panel discussion and subsequent forum response raised the following key points: Clubs must be active in recruiting the right people to the right roles. Clubs need to ensure that all people on Committees are effective and have a defined role volunteer position descriptions can be useful. Use Cricket Australia resources (community.cricket. com.au) and embed into planning with SACA. Volunteer management resources for sports clubs are also available from SA Government (VSTAR - https:// www.recsport.sa.gov.au/v-star). Integration with Volunteering SA WeDo app. Succession planning for key Club roles is vital, together with creating pathways for administrators and volunteers. Leaders must be able and willing to delegate ( if I keep doing everything, everyone else will do nothing ) the key is to make all feel important. Improve volunteer recognition at Club level. If Clubs encourage people, make it fun and provide support then people are more willing to be involved need to design own volunteer programs. SACA, Premier cricket and community must work together collaboratively to answer the volunteer challenge. Greater administrative support in Clubs is required and would be highly valued if provided by SACA. SACA provides volunteer support and training, but Clubs must capitalise on this.
SESSION 7 HEART OF THE GAME (VOLUNTEERS) Panel Discussion Each table was requested to respond to the following questions. Grouped responses are listed below: AREA RESPONSE TOTAL ROLE DEFINITION AND AWARENESS Clear definition of volunteer roles and accountability - alleviate lack of understanding or fear of what volunteering might involve RECOGNITION Providing recognition and acknowledgement 3 ADMINISTRATION Volunteer Management, red tape and administration 2 EXPECTATIONS Expectation of service in return for registration fee 1 NOMINATE THE MOST PRESSING ISSUES WITH ATTRACTING AND RETAINING VOLUNTEER RESOURCES? 9 AREA RESPONSE TOTAL RECOGNITION Assistance with reward and recognition 6 ROLES & PROGRAMS Clearly defined programs and roles 3 PLANNING Better planning and identification of skillsets 3 PAID RESOURCES Paid staffing resources and honorariums. Game Development Officer in each zone. 2 CULTURE Foster a culture of volunteering from young age 1 ROSTERING Roster roles to avoid burn out 1 COMMUNICATIONS Better communication 1 EMBRACE CHANGE Stop resisting change 1 NOMINATE TWO WAYS IN WHICH THE VOLUNTEER CHALLENGE COULD BE EASED?
SESSION 8 MEASURING UP All of Forum Group Discussion Each table was required to identify one thing that South Australian cricket should stop doing, one thing it should start doing and one thing that it should continue doing. The collated results are provided below. STOP DOING START DOING CONTINUE DOING Delaying change and take action Thinking about only our own organisations and blaming others Operating in silos Being negative - tell people about the good things Focusing too much on Premier Cricket Thinking that competition structures can t change Too much admin & paperwork Collaborating, communicating and embracing change Building awareness, understanding and relationships through all levels Knowing our communities better and being more inclusive More club administrative support and resources Fully communicate to attract volunteers SACA to become the champion of change and lead our clubs Formalised links between Associations Seek understanding of other groups wants, needs and issues Supporting juniors, female cricket and volunteers What we have started with this Forum and continue communicating and collaborating Making and promoting cricket as more fun and inclusive Supporting grassroots clubs and associations with dedicated resources Filling in the pathway gaps for female cricket Encouraging, challenging and planning Multiple formats to promote fun and participation
SESSION 9 THE WAY FORWARD All participants engaged in an all of Forum session to identify key ways forward. A summary of identified issues and responses were submitted to the Forum for discussion and consideration. The following keys to success were discussed and agreed. THE KEYS TO SUCCESS Club Culture inclusive, family friendly, community connected and fun Community Clubs, Associations, Premier Clubs and SACA working together Promote and grow girls and women s cricket Relationship building with all stakeholders SACA support, resources and collaboration Better talent identification and development Build schools relationship - facilities, programs, participation and alignment with clubs/pathways Strategy for local government relationship development Address regional club and regional association issues Continued regular, open and honest communication A UNIFIED COMMITMENT TO POSITIVE CHANGE
THE CRICKET CONNECTS COMMITMENT This resulted in unanimous endorsement by all Forum participants present of the following commitment. We will work and communicate honestly with each other to develop and implement an innovative Action Plan to make South Australian cricket, through its Clubs and stakeholders, the most fun, familyfriendly, inclusive and community connected of any sport in Australia SACA CEO Keith Bradshaw and President Andrew Sinclair signing the Cricket Connects Commitment