A unique partnership between Bay of Plenty Cricket and Upper Central Rugby League, will see the two organizations share the services of a sport development officer during the calendar year.
Brent Jones, who is employed by Upper Central Zone Rugby League during the winter sports season, has been contracted to deliver grassroots cricket programs in the BOPCA Lakeland region of Eastern Bay of Plenty, Rotorua and Taupo.
“What really drives me is to create opportunities for kids to play sport and my rugby league and cricket employment, gives me the chance to put my passion to work in two different sports in the Bay of Plenty” said Jones.
The newly appointed Lakeland Development Officer will be involved in promoting cricket in schools in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, Rotorua and Taupo regions.
Bay Oval - the home of Bay of Plenty Cricket. PHOTOSPORT
Jones will also facilitate the NZ Cricket junior in-school skills program and oversee junior cricket festivals in the three regions.
Jones played premier Baywide cricket for Whakatane United for five seasons after shifting to the Eastern Bay of Plenty in 2005.
Bay of Plenty Cricket Manager Tai Bridgman-Raison said “It is always a challenge to retain quality people when you are only able to offer seasonal employment.
"The collaboration with Upper Central Rugby League allows us the opportunity to secure the services of a high quality deliverer, which will generate positive outcomes for both sports”.
Story supplied by: Bay of Plenty Cricket.
Brent Jones is set to put his cricket and rugby league skills to good use all year round. PHOTO - Adyn Ogle, Whakatane Beacon
