All Abilities Carnival held at MCG

The event is in its third year and brings together multiple special schools to learn the basic skills of cricket, playing in a modified form of Woolworths Cricket Blast.

Over 170 students participated, showcasing the skills they have been learning within their school clinics, and for those yet to complete clinics, they were provided with an introduction to the school program.

Melbourne Stars WBBL bowler, Chloe Rafferty stopped by to show her support and provide students with some tips and tricks, as did members of the Victorian ID teams, Richard Curtis, Dave Alford, and Brett Mackey. Victoria Police also provided 25 members to assist on the day as a part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) which involved a lap around the MCG prior to the commencement of activities.

Diversity and Inclusion Officer Beth Murphy said the day was a huge success.

“It was amazing to see students from a variety of Special Schools across Victoria come and attend today. It’s great for kids to experience coming onto the MCG and also meet some amazing players and role models,” she said.

“We have so many opportunities for people with a disability to participate in cricket, from entry level all the way through our pathway up to representing Australia, and that is what makes our sport inclusive and really honouring our “a sport for all philosophy.”

Schools that took part in the day included:

• Belvoir Special School
• Emerson School
• Frankston Special Developmental School
• Glenallen School
• Heatherwood School
• Katandra School
• Montague School
• Officer Specialist School
• South Gippsland Specialist School
• Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School
• Warringa Park School

If you would like to learn more about All Abilities cricket, please contact bmurphy@cricketvictoria.com.au.