On Wednesday 17th September the Derbyshire Cricket Foundation (DCF) held our annual Grassroots Cricket Collective Awards which celebrates the brilliant work that volunteers do across the county within cricket.
In 2025, over 130 individual nominations were received across 17 Categories.
Over 40 shortlisted nominees and guests were invited to the Central Co-op County Ground for the evening celebration to enjoy a 2 course buffet and awards ceremony.
After an excellent array of food on the ‘street food buffet’ it was onto the awards which were presented by Mick Glenn, Clubs and Leagues Manager.
Before each winner came to collect their award, a short video was shown that had been created by members of their club to show their appreciation. This was the 3rd year we have incorporated the videos and is a brilliant addition to our evening as it made everything feel more personal. They definitely brought a few tears from winners and DCF staff alike!
In 2025 we added 3 new categories to those from the ECB.
Champion of Womens Cricket
Teacher of the Year
School of the Year
Choosing a winner in each category was not an easy task given the number and quality of nominations. Many congratulations to everyone who was nominated, especially our winners. Everyone at The Derbyshire Cricket Foundation appreciates all you do for recreational cricket in Derbyshire.
The winners of each category can be found below:
Teacher of the Year: Louise White – Royal School for the Deaf
School of the Year: Anthony Gell School
Rising Star Award: Matthew Butcher – Chesterfield CC
Game Changer: Oliver Taylor – Elvaston CC
Growing the Game: Michelle Butler – Derbyshire Junior Cricket League
Inspired to play: Ricky Podmore – Youlgrave CC
SafeHands Award: Matthew Gabbitas – Risley CC
Cricket Innovators: Mark Ashmore – Apperknowle CC
Volunteer Grounds Management Team of the Year: Chris Wood and Clowne Town CC
The Metro Bank Champion of Girls Cricket: Ed Buchan – Grindleford CC
Young Coach of the Year: Freya Harper – Clifton CC
Coach of the Year: Leanne Bunting – Denby CC
Outstanding Contribution- Services to Coaching: Dunc Green – Swanwick Hall CC
Connecting Communities: Hindu Cultural and Welfare Society CC
Champion of Women’s Cricket: Nelle Hutchinson – Swarkestone CC
Unsung Hero: Mark Bailey – Ashbourne CC
Lifetime: Andrew Mitchell – South Wingfield CC
Share this post
