Club Spotlight: Warwick Women’s Cricket Club

“I honestly wish I’d joined the club sooner!” said Nabiha Salman, current member of the University of Warwick Women’s Cricket Club (UWWCC).

Whether you’re looking to try a new sport or have been playing cricket for years, women’s cricket is a must-try. UWWCC is one of the fastest-growing clubs on campus, offering cricket to women-identifying and non-binary people of all cricketing abilities. I spoke to the executive committee, responsible for the running of the club, to find out what UWWCC has to offer.

There are so many sports out there, so why choose cricket? Anna Maxfield, Club Captain of UWWCC explained: “I have found cricket a way of escaping from the academic stress that university brings. The training sessions are sociable and easy-going but also have the focus that is needed to see improvement. I found it easy to fit in with the mixed ability group at training sessions as the club has a very supportive and friendly dynamic.”

In terms 1 and 2, at the Sport and Wellness Hub, UWWCC hold several indoor training sessions a week with the opportunity to play competitive matches against other universities and local clubs, and in the BUCS indoor tournament. In term 3, training and matches move outdoors for the Summer and UWWCC take part in their BUCS outdoor league against the likes of Nottingham, Loughborough, Oxford, and Cambridge. With a First XI team and development team, UWWCC ensures there is match-play for all at all standards.

It’s not just all about cricket, though, as I spoke to other members of the Executive Committee.

Absolute best vibes – I honestly wished I’d joined the club sooner

– Nabiha Salman

“There’s so much we do outside of training! We have regular chilled out socials like ‘Balls and Brews’ after training once a week – a catch up session for everyone, including people who don’t come to training. We circle in the Copper Rooms and go to POP! regularly which is super fun with a different fancy dress theme every week! Our social secretary also organises socials like club meals, bowling, and movie nights throughout the term so there’s something for everyone,” said Ranjit Jassal, Vice-President and Treasurer.

Big events such as Cricket Ball, the Annual Charity Tournament and Tour are fun-packed days where everyone in the club gets together, Jassal adds. Importantly, UWWCC ensures these events are as inclusive as possible as Nabiha Salman, Welfare Officer & Freshers Rep explained: “With personal experience I can say, women’s cricket really puts inclusivity in the forefront. Whether it’s making sure you settle in well in the club as a newbie, as was done with me last year, or just making sure that everyone feels like they’re taken in consideration in terms their abilities in cricket. The members’ well-being is always a top priority for the club.”

If this hasn’t convinced you – here are some final words from members on you should join UWWCC from our exec and members.

“The obvious answer is to play cricket. However, I believe that it is the people in the club that make the UWWCC such a great club. As a fresher last year, I was initially nervous as I had such little experience. But the club is so warm and supportive of each member, and it makes everyone that joins feel so comfortable. Women’s cricket doesn’t get much national attention and UWWCC want to change that so everyone can enjoy playing such a great sport club,” said Anna Maxfield.

Ranjit Jassal adds: “It’s such a lovely club and it’s so easy to make friends here! Even people who’ve joined us in the middle of their second years have integrated super well into the club, so I’d definitely recommend joining even if you’re not a first year.”

“I’d say we’re just a super fun and chill club. All abilities can gain something from coming to a training session, we have music playing in the background (mostly good music too!) as well. Absolute best vibes. I honestly wished I’d joined the club sooner!” said Nabiha Salman.

Get involved now and find more information out at https://www.warwicksu.com/societies-sports/sports-clubs/4015/ and follow UWWCC on Instagram @UOWWCC.