Mention cricket to Kerry Spence and her eyes get this mischievous twinkle that tells you you're about to hear some memorable stories that highlight the enthusiasm this bubbly woman has for Australia's national game.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The longtime Parkes District Junior Cricket Association (PDJCA) volunteer was awarded life membership - the first female to ever receive the honour - at the conclusion of the 2019/20 season, a testament to her dedication and hard work over the past 16 years.
Though typically keen to deflect recognition for her efforts over the best part of two decades, Kerry was incredibly humbled by the honour bestowed upon her.
"For me, it (the life membership) just goes to show what I've done has been valued, and to top it off I was the first female to receive it; which feels really special."
Her journey volunteering for the club began in 2004, stepping into the oft-maligned role of scorer, a role she grew to love - particularly the statistics side of the equation; just like any good cricket nuffy.
"I had no idea about cricket at the time, I just wanted to be with the kids because I knew how much cricket meant to them," says Kerry.
Since cutting her teeth as a scorer, Kerry has filled a variety of roles: chauffeur, nurse, draw coordinator, writer, statistician and goodness knows what else.
Perhaps most important of all however, was the creation of the PDJCA Facebook page which allowed parents and supporters to stay more abreast of draws, news and changes.
Originally the draw was released each Friday in the Parkes Champion Post, and Kerry would be ringing around the region to ensure everyone was aware of the details for each match over the weekend.
Now, a supporter can jump on the Facebook page and see photos, draws, representative updates and any weather related changes.
READ MORE LOCAL SPORTS STORIES:
Since being presented with her life membership plaque, Kerry has made the decision to withdraw from a heavy volunteering role for a heartwarming reason.
"I've decided to take a step back now so I can focus on watching my daughter Maddy; travelling and supporting her as she rises through the cricketing ranks."
Maddy, a PDJCA junior and recipient of several awards for her outstanding 2019/20 season here in Parkes, is combining local commitments with girls representative cricket and grade cricket in Sydney.
Not content with just being a bystander and enjoying the ride with Maddy, the pair do several fitness sessions together every week; boxing, circuits, spin classes, boot camp - you name it they'll give it a crack.
Is there anything Kerry Spence can't do?
Maddy insists Kerry could do with a bit of improvement in the boxing stakes.
"She needs to hold the pads better otherwise I'm gonna give her a clip!"
