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