The past year has been one of the most significant in the history of Chipperfield CC. The recently held EGM had to make a critical decision on the way forward for Chipperfield CC. It has become apparent over the past five years that the playing membership has not been increasing in such a way that would enable the club to maintain its reputation and standard of cricket. The lack of new players is a serious concern for the long-term future of the club.
The development of the juniors by Jim, Chris, Billy and Malcolm has proved to be the only glimmer of hope for the future of the club. However this process is still in its infancy. The current average age of the playing membership is the wrong side of 40. As such performance will undoubtedly suffer. Both the first and seconds managed to maintain their divisional status although both were in the lower third of their respective leagues at the end of the season. This situation has been repeated for a number of years, indicating a continuous decline.
Hence the need for a radical change to re focus and equip the club to make a serious challenge within Hertfordshire and re-establish itself as a major force.
What will this mean for the future?
The club is to be called Chipperfield Clarendon CC, we will be fielding four teams on a Saturday in the Herts league Div 3, 4, 8, 14, ensuring every opportunity for members to play their cricket and ensuring there is sufficient representation at each level to meet the current member’s ability. This will also ensure the Junior development will continue and become more focused. The 3rds and 4ths will play at Hervines Park Amersham, a pleasantly appointed ground, only twenty minutes from main ground.
A team was entered into the indoor cricket league at Redbourn, this first year is always a struggle as both strategy and performance are quite different from the outdoor game. This said the team’s performance has been good. In total ten teams are in the league and Chipperfield Clarendon managed to end the season in position five. Some good performances from individuals, however it was apparent that discipline cost the team a number of wins. Wides are harshly punished and this was a common recurring problem. In 2009 we will again enter a team and all members are welcome to make themselves available. It’s a good game and helps to develop new techniques.
With the AGM rapidly approaching it is vital that we all attend to make our views known and take part in the selection process for new officers. We have interviewed potential captains for the first team. And we have three excellent candidates, each of them have a clear vision for the club, innovative ideas for training sessions, how to maximise the best from the players and a desire to see the club succeed. As full members you have a responsibility to attend the meeting and become active in the voting process. This is your club and we must all take ownership.
Here's to a new year full of success and a club with strong spirit.
Brief History of
Clarendon
Clarendon Cricket Club was founded in 1957 under its original title of Eagas Cricket Club and consisted entirely of employees of Eastern Gas Board, which was based in Clarendon Road, Watford. In the late sixties the clubs name was changed to Clarendon and a drive to recruit players commenced. Initially the home ground was at King George V and in 1978 the club moved to Mill End.
Over the years moves to HSBC Bricket Wood, Thames Water Maple Cross and Jackets Field Cow Roast were made to accommodate a growing club, entry into League cricket and generally improve the facilities for the playing and enjoyment of cricket. At both Bricket Wood and Cow Roast the move required the construction of a cricket table and this was undertaken by the members of the club.
Over the years the club has achieved considerable success winning the Herts. Village Trophy and gaining promotion through the Hertfordshire League to its current position in divisions 3 & 8.
The major problem encountered at the current ground is the difficulty in attracting young players and also with this strength and ambition a permanent home became a real priority.