12/09/2026
COME AND TRY DAY TODAY
11am-1pm 🏏🐂
JUNIOR CRICKET Cricket Tasmania
The story behind Huonville Cricket Club's junior boom, through the eyes of junior coach Anthony Barnett.
The Huonville Cricket Club is seeing the benefits of years of hard work, welcoming more young players than ever before and building a thriving cricket community in the Huon Valley.
In the 2025/26 season, the club has increased its junior cricket numbers by 80 per cent. Behind that growth is a club culture built on welcoming families, supporting volunteers and creating a place where young people can enjoy the game.
There are many people that have made this possible at the club, but one of the people helping drive that culture is junior coach Anthony Barnett.
Like many community coaches, Barnett didn't initially set out to take on the role. His coaching journey began about four years ago when his eldest son started progressing through junior cricket.
"I was just a parent helping out by bowling in the nets, tying laces, putting stumps in and occasionally umpiring," he said.
"Eventually, it was my turn to take the lead, and now it's difficult to give up."
Cricket has always been part of Barnett's life. Growing up in Northern New South Wales, he played for Nulla Cricket Club in the Macleay Valley, with one of his favourite memories being winning a C Grade premiership alongside his father and brother when he was just 14 years old.
While university and work meant stepping away from playing regularly, his love for the game never disappeared. Now, through coaching, he's found a new way to stay connected to cricket while helping the next generation discover it for themselves.
For Barnett, coaching is about much more than developing cricket skills.
"Creating a culture around the love and fun of the game before life hits those next milestones is really important," he said.
"It's a real privilege to be in the position that I am and to have an impact on some of these young boys and girls around a common interest."
His approach focuses on the moments that don't always appear on the scoreboard. Whether it's a new friendship formed at training, a player growing in confidence, or simply turning up each week and giving their best effort, Barnett believes success looks different for every child.
"Success can be simply sharing a moment on the sideline with teammates, having a go at training or experiencing something new. I love being present for those moments."
That philosophy is reflected in the growth Huonville has experienced in recent years. The club has expanded significantly through the introduction of a women's team and two junior girls' teams, helping attract new players and families to the club.
According to Barnett, much of that growth has come through strong community connections and word of mouth. Local schools introducing girls-only cricket programs has also helped create more opportunities for young people to become involved in the game. From ventures like this we as a club were very lucky to pick up two coach’s, Mrs Kate Brown + Mrs Kate Kruse, and we would not have been able to do what we have done without them and their commitments.
Last season marked an important milestone with the launch of the club's girls' program, something Barnett describes as one of the most rewarding parts of his coaching journey.
"The most rewarding part has been watching the growth and development of our young boys and girls, not just as cricketers but also in their confidence, teamwork and enjoyment of the game," he said.
"It has also been incredibly rewarding to see the growth of the club itself."
Creating a welcoming environment remains at the heart of everything Huonville Cricket Club does. Each year, the club hosts a come-and-try day, giving new players and families the chance to learn more about cricket and meet the people who make the club what it is.
The club's success, however, relies heavily on volunteers.
"Our existence depends on the invaluable help and support of our volunteers," Barnett said.
"They are the backbone of every club."
From coaches and team managers to canteen helpers, scorers and committee members, volunteers help ensure young cricketers can take the field every week.
"It takes a community to raise kids, so what a community it is to build a club," Barnett said.
Looking ahead, Barnett hopes the club can continue its strong growth and encourage more people to get involved, whether as players, coaches or volunteers.
For anyone considering coaching, his message is simple.
"It's incredibly rewarding, so give it a try," he said.
"It's not always easy, and some days are better than others, but the journey is well worth it. Even as a parent offering support, you'll always be valued at our club."
As Huonville Cricket Club prepares for another season, its growth is a reminder that community cricket is about far more than runs and wickets. Through dedicated volunteers, passionate coaches and a welcoming culture, the club is helping young people build confidence, friendships and a lifelong connection to the game.
Get involved at Huonville 🏏🐂
For those wanting to get involved at Huonville Cricket Club. They are hosting a 'Come and Try' day on Sunday, Septmember 16th. Details below:
Huonville Cricket Club - Come and Try Day
Kids of all ages, boys and girls, offering a try of all junior programs. Free BBQ included.
Date: Sunday 16th September
Time: 11:00am - 1:00pm
Location: Huon Valley PCYC
For more information, please contact on of the following people:
Logan Bligh: 0497 291 165
Isaac Dean: 0474 221 355
Andrew Cordwell: 0499 481 989
