From preparing pitches and organising fixtures to coaching junior teams and running canteens, volunteers are the driving force behind community cricket across Western Australia.
Volunteers celebrated through AAMI Community Champions initiative
Every season, thousands of dedicated volunteers donate their time to ensure local clubs can provide welcoming, inclusive and enjoyable environments for players and families. Their commitment not only keeps the game running but helps create lasting memories and opportunities for cricketers of all ages.
To celebrate these often-unsung heroes, Perth Scorchers and AAMI have partnered through the AAMI Community Champions initiative, recognising the outstanding individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference in their local cricket communities.
Perth Scorchers Weber WBBL player Ruby Strange said volunteers play an invaluable role in shaping the cricket journey of countless players across the country.
"Volunteers are honestly the heartbeat of the sporting community, and the cricket community in particular, so having the AAMI initiative to highlight the incredible volunteers is exciting," Strange said.
"As soon as I think of volunteers there are a few names that come straight to mind who have made such an impact on myself, my career and everything. We wouldn't be here without volunteers, and it goes right from the grassroots.
"I'm absolutely stoked about this partnership with AAMI and really excited about this initiative. It's so good to acknowledge the people behind the scenes."
For Strange, one volunteer who left a lasting mark on her career was the late Tracey Slater from her hometown of Gladstone.
"She was a massive female volunteer who had a huge impact on my career," Strange said.
"I was only about 12 years old when I first started playing and she really supported me in what was a male-dominated sport back then in the country.
“To have a female support and guide through my cricket journey as a young girl was so important.
"To have the Tracey Slater Award still going to this day is really special."
The AAMI Community Champions initiative reflects a shared commitment from AAMI and the Perth Scorchers to recognise the volunteers whose hard work helps community cricket thrive.
By shining a spotlight on these local champions and sharing their stories, the program ensures the people who give so much to the game receive the recognition they deserve while inspiring the next generation of volunteers to get involved.