CNW Junior Mid-Season Meeting Notes (Dec 2025)
Some strong numbers across Club Blast programs and CT delivered School-Based Blast Programs this season. Overall growth of 60 participants in Club-Based programs with more programs to run in Term 1. New club Central Coast CC ran a successful program with 38 participants.
The strong growth in the region bucks the trend of Blast participation decline across the State and many other parts of Australia. Clubs noted some good wins by getting younger people at their clubs (e.g. Under 16s or just older) to help or lead programs, which have had a really positive impact on the experience of the kids.
CT noted clubs which attended our School promotional sessions had some strong growth with these being Latrobe CC and Circular Head CC – we understand this is challenging but it has great impact.
Stage 1 Smash
Programs running across the region with some strong numbers – this program aims to bridge the gap between Blast and Under 12s cricket. Clubs are encouraged to promote these programs to older Blast participants who may want further cricket opportunities in the Summer holidays or term 1, or even Under 12s participants who may want more cricket or to build confidence in playing some outfield type games.
Junior Cricket Teams and Rules
Junior team numbers have had some strong growth, particularly in the Under 12s with 6 more teams. This includes existing clubs growing team numbers and new club Penguin CC adding two teams. No major Junior rule changes came in this season or were suggested for change.
The only discussion point raised by clubs was to ensure in Under 12s rules were being followed – i.e. even balls faced for batters (as close as possible), even overs for bowlers and softaball to be used for all games pre-Christmas.
Under 12s Post-Christmas Structure
Following the CNW Board doing some research with Clubs, a decision was made to run a two-division model for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Clubs will nominate which division they wish to participate in. This structure is designed to support appropriate development pathways and ensure games remain balanced and enjoyable for all players.
Division 1: Will play with a hard cricket ball for the remainder of the season. Recommended for players ready for the next step in skill progression.
Division 2: Will continue using the softer ball for the rest of the season. Ideal for developing players needing more time building confidence and fundamental skills.
Please note: Clubs are encouraged to ensure participants play at the level best suited for them. This may mean the reshuffle of some teams within a Club to achieve this. Clubs were supportive of this change and requested specific communications be sent to be forwarded to relevant coaches and parents.
TasWater Hurricanes Junior League Gala Events
Information shared about the upcoming TasWater HJL. Clubs supportive of this program and most are keen to be involved. Further follow-up to be done with Clubs to get final nominations – need these no later than Friday, December 19th for planning purposes. Clubs also acknowledge that challenges with coaches and parent help may occur due to regular coaches for some clubs being unavailable.
Coach Approach Sessions
Discussed the Coach Approach sessions and mentioned numbers were lower than we would like to be. Question was asked how we can get more attendees to these sessions.
Suggestions for consideration for more engagement:
· an online component to be considered – noting the session is almost fully practical but this could help at least sell the ‘what’ of the session.
· sessions held at Clubs – CT noted this would likely help get better however with around 40-50 junior clubs across the state is not realistic for CT to service all of these clubs.
Clubs are encouraged to keep sharing these opportunities to their coaches and even parents for future sessions.
High Performance Update
Greg Hechter was on the line and provided a brief update on HP Pathway programs. If Clubs or coaches have any questions regarding HP Pathway programs please contact Greg via 0421 563 399 or ghechter@crickettas.com.au
CNW Board Update
CNW East vs West U14s – Game 1 to be played on Sunday (21 December 2025), with details sent to Clubs and selected players. Another game will be played on 9 March 2026 (Monday of the March long weekend).
Overage Player permits - currently under review by CNW Competitions Sub-Committee and clubs will be contacted soon. An eligibility review will also be done prior to Under 16s finals. Overage players will not be eligible for any end of season player awards.
Girls CNW vs CN Representative Games – two have been played alongside the Senior Women’s Representative Games. Request to Clubs to send details for any girls who might be interested in the program that aren’t already involved.
