Lee clubhouse is best by milesBy Jon Swain, Chairman
The 27th June saw the ‘Grand Opening’ of the refurbished clubhouse. This coincided with the ‘Grand Finale’ of England’s Football World Cup campaign. The contrast could not have been starker. Whereas one match was full of top-class players, with a result almost too close to call, the other was not.
A select XI of younger and older cricketers was carefully chosen, and put up against the might of The Lee’s Sunday XI. The Chairman’s XI batted first and was soon in difficulties against youthful exuberance, 14 year-old Jonty Cook dismissing his father and uncle (names withheld through shame). However, experience shone through and a competitive total was reached. At tea (a sumptuous spread), the clubhouse was formally opened by Liz Stewart-Liberty, who produced a wonderfully entertaining and witty speech.
The Lee struggled against the contrasting attack of the Chair’s XI; Peter Ongondo (Kenya & Chesham) and Craig Ringsell (Chesham Bois). It came to this: the last wicket pair of Mark Channer and Guy Morgan needed to score 20 runs to win. With a modicum of luck, and some fine batting, they just managed the task. A terrific match, worthy of the occasion, and much fun had by all. This was eminently suitable to mark the achievement of those responsible for the work, fund-raising and involvement in the project. We now have the best clubhouse for many miles.
In other areas, the club has continued to be a vital element in village life. The teams have not repeated quite the success of recent years, but the nurturing of younger players and the preservation of older ones continue alike. We hope to maintain our status in the Premier Division of the league for the 1st XI, and the 2nd XI presses for promotion.
The Sunday team has recorded some fine victories, and special mention goes to Alex Morgan for two splendid centuries. The junior teams have played well, although results have not always reflected that. We were proud to host Bucks U11s vs. Kent U11s in July and felt the ground looked superb. We have many cricketers who have represented the county and district at various age groups now, a testament to their talent and the coaches’ enthusiasm. Just as important, all our cricketers are encouraged to maximise their potential.