Cricket festival set for July

As readers of The Anglican may remember from earlier issues featuring the Anglican Church Cricket Festival, cricket boasts a rich history that is intertwined with Canada and the Anglican Church, dating back to the 1800s. This legacy will continue when Canada takes the field for the first time in a T20 Cricket World Cup this year. On June 1 in Dallas, Texas, the opening match will feature Canada against the United States in a re-enactment of their iconic 1844 encounter. The 1844 match between the two countries has the proud distinction of being the world’s first-ever international cricket match. For those intrigued by the sport and enticed to explore its nuances, an opportunity awaits in our own diocese on July 13 as the eighth annual Anglican Church Cricket Festival (ACCF) is held in Brampton.

This is an invitation to join a celebration that goes beyond the confines of sport, community and diversity. The organizers extend this invitation not only to seasoned cricket enthusiasts but also to those who are new to the game, encouraging them to explore, learn, try and actively participate in the world’s second most popular game after soccer. The ACCF provides opportunities for Anglicans in the GTA to get to know each other and build relationships, and enjoy food, fun and Christian fellowship.

Last year’s festival was a resounding success. Drawing more than 80 parishioners and friends from six churches in the diocese, the event was a testament to the unifying power of cricket. The Rev. Canon Dr. Stephen Fields, sub-dean and vicar of St. James Cathedral, MPP Charmaine Williams, a parishioner of St. Joseph of Nazareth, and the Rev. Ginnie Wong, interim priest-in-charge of Holy Trinity, Thornhill, inaugurated the tournament with enthusiasm and spirit. The round-robin games culminated in an entertaining final match with St. Bede, Scarborough claiming the title of tournament champion.

The event showcased the talents of all involved, each with varying levels of knowledge and understanding of the game. Ms. Williams, recognizing the significance of the event, presented the organizers with a special award on behalf of the Ontario government. Afterwards, Canon Fields shared his delight as he praised the ACCF for its lively atmosphere, enjoyable activities and sense of community. As a passionate cricket enthusiast hailing from Barbados, he lived up to expectations, by displaying his cricket skills with the distinctive flair of West Indian cricket.

The organizers express their appreciation to all who supported last year’s festival. A special acknowledgment is extended to the Ontario Schools Cricket Association for its ongoing support of the festival, providing equipment and setup materials for the event.

The invitation for this year’s festival on July 13 – a Saturday – extends to all parishes. We urge you to consider fielding a cricket team or encourage individual players to join a combined church cricket team representing your church. The festival will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Creditview Sandalwood Sports Complex, 10530 Creditview Rd., Brampton.

f you are interested in playing as an individual, as a church team or simply helping out as a volunteer, email Mr. Mendis at [email protected].