Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club Celebrates Eddie Withington’s Inspiring New Initiative 'HitForSix'

As a Club, we are filled with pride as one of our senior team players, Eddie Withington, launches his groundbreaking initiative, HitForSix—a program designed to engage and inspire young Indigenous kids through the sport of cricket.

Eddie, one of our talented players from the senior’s group, has always been passionate about using cricket as a tool for positive change. During a trip taken during his diploma course, Eddie had an eye-opening experience that set him on a path to start something special. It was during this trip that Eddie realised the impact he could have by blending cricket with broader life skills to help young Indigenous Australians, and HitForSix was born.

Launched with its inaugural trip in October of this year, HitForSix focused on engaging Indigenous youth in remote communities through cricket, using the sport as a means to connect with young people. During this first visit, Eddie spent two weeks in an Indigenous community near Broome, teaching the fundamentals of cricket while building relationships with the local kids. Based on the insights and learnings from this initial trip, the HitForSix program will evolve in 2025 to incorporate broader education on mental health awareness and nutrition, ensuring a more holistic approach to supporting the well-being and development of young participants.

The idea behind HitForSix is more than just teaching cricket,” Eddie explained. “For many Indigenous kids, there are unique challenges they face, from mental health struggles to limited access to resources and opportunities. I want to use cricket as a way to engage them and create a broader impact—helping them with their mental health, teaching them about nutrition, and building their confidence. It’s giving them tools to grow both on and off the field. This approach lets the kids see the bigger picture and helps them develop a sense of self-belief and wellbeing that goes beyond just the sport.”

The program targets children between the ages of 5-16 and works closely with independent schools to gain permission to run these programs in communities across Australia. Eddie’s long-term vision includes expanding HitForSix to Queensland, the Northern Territory (including Alice Springs), and down south of Western Australia, with three trips planned for next year in 2025.

Eddie is hopeful that the state and federal governments will take an interest in supporting the program, enabling HitForSix to grow and deepen its impact in remote Indigenous communities. So if anyone in our Club community has any contacts for Eddie, please get in touch. 

“We’re just getting started, and the response from the kids and the communities has been incredible,” Eddie said. “Cricket is a fun, engaging way to get kids excited, but the real value comes from offering them a broader skill set—teaching them about mental health, nutrition, and how to stay strong physically and mentally. If we can help even just a few kids on their journey, I know we’re doing something right.”

Henry Tyler, Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club’s Head Coach, expressed immense pride in Eddie's achievements and initiative.

“We are so proud to have someone like Eddie at the club,” said Henry. “Not only is he a talented player on the field, but his heart and passion for giving back to the community is truly inspiring. What Eddie is doing with HitForSix is an incredible testament to his character, and we’re honoured to support him in any way we can. He’s not just a star cricketer, he’s a real leader—and we are lucky to have him as part of the Ivanhoe Saints family.”

As HitForSix continues to grow, Eddie hopes it will not only bring more opportunities to remote communities but also raise awareness around the importance of mental health and nutrition in Indigenous communities. With his vision and dedication, Eddie is laying the foundation for a program that could have lasting, positive effects on the lives of young Indigenous Australians across the country. 

As a Club, we are incredibly proud that Eddie pulls on the mighty Saints uniform every weekend, representing the Ivanhoe Saints with such passion and commitment. His dedication to both the game and his business is an inspiration to us all. We wish him every success with HitForSix, as he continues to make a positive impact and inspire the next generation. 

Official launch of the David Reilly Scoreboard

During our launch night recently, we had the honour of welcoming David Reilly to the club. It was an emotional occasion as we celebrated his contributions over the past 40 years while he bravely battles health issues. The level of support shown highlights that our club is more than just a cricket venue; it’s a place where the local community comes together to meet old and new friends.

Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club’s Ambitious Strategy Gains Momentum with Major New Recruit

The Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club is excited to announce a significant milestone in their journey, marked by the arrival of standout overseas all-rounder Monam Abbas. With Senior Coach Henry Tyler at the helm, the addition of this new talent is set to enhance the team’s performance and aspirations, building on growth in season 23/24 and paving the way for a promising future.

Monam Abbas, a brilliant batting all-rounder from Hampshire, will join the Ivanhoe Saints for the 2024/25 season.

Currently starring in the Southern Premier League for Lymington Cricket Club, Abbas brings a wealth of international experience and skill to the team.

His addition is anticipated to have a significant impact on the club's performance and ambitions for the forthcoming season.

Henry Tyler, who is leading the Senior coaching team for the 2023/24 season, is the driving force behind the club's renewed focus on excellence. With a rich coaching background spanning both senior and junior levels, Tyler has demonstrated his expertise through roles such as the National Head Coach for the Philippines since 2021 and Development & High- Performance Coach for Northern Falcons since 2018. His Cricket Australia Level 2 Coaching Accreditation, coupled with his position as Head of Health & PE at Ivanhoe Grammar, underscores his commitment to developing both the game and young talent.

The Ivanhoe Saints' strategic shift also includes the recent appointment of ex-Hobart Hurricanes Assistant Coach Brad Loveluck as the Head of High Performance. Loveluck's extensive experience and proven track record are expected to enhance the club's training programs and performance metrics.

“This is an exciting time for the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club,” said Henry Tyler. “We’re beginning to see the fruits of our strategic overhaul with a stronger performance last season, and our ambitions for the 2024/25 season are even higher. The addition of Monam Abbas and the appointment of Brad Loveluck as Head of High Performance are key components of our plan to elevate the club to new heights. We’re confident that with this talented group and our refreshed approach, we are well-positioned for a successful season ahead.”

The club’s renewed strategy and impressive roster are a clear indication of Ivanhoe Saints' commitment to achieving excellence and restoring its legacy. Fans and stakeholders can look forward to a season full of potential and high-calibre performances.

Important Announcement: The Naming of the David Reilly Scoreboard

We are thrilled to announce that the scoreboard at Ivanhoe Park, which serves as the home ground for both the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club, the Ivanhoe Football and Junior Football Club, will be officially named the David Reilly Scoreboard. This significant honour has been agreed upon by all clubs to recognise and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of David Reilly, a true legend of our local sporting community.

David Reilly

David’s commitment to both clubs has been nothing short of remarkable. From his role as a foundation member of the Ivanhoe Junior Football Club in 1972 to his influential presence as a player and committee member of the Ivanhoe Cricket Club since 1978, David has been instrumental in shaping our sporting community. He co-founded the Ivanhoe Knights coterie supporters group, the first of its kind in Melbourne, and in 1996 he was President of the cricket club for a period of two years, but over a long period of time fostered collaboration between the cricket and football clubs through joint fundraising initiatives that greatly strengthened both teams and our community.

David’s dedication extends far beyond participation. He has mentored countless players and officials and has been pivotal in securing sponsorships that have supported both clubs. His tireless efforts have ensured that the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club remains a cornerstone of our community. In the past number of years he has led the Tucker club and has managed it himself until his recent illness.

As we look forward to the official unveiling of the scoreboard during the first function of the cricket season, we take this opportunity to celebrate David and express our heartfelt gratitude for his profound impact. Our thoughts are with him as he navigates health challenges at this time.

A message from Tim Cheesewright, President of the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club:

"On a personal level, David has been an extraordinary supporter and a true champion of our community. His unwavering commitment and vision have not only shaped the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club but have also enriched the local sporting landscape. Without his tireless efforts and dedication, the club may not be here today. We are profoundly grateful for his contributions, which have inspired generations of players and fans across our community.”

Join us in honouring David Reilly and celebrating his lasting legacy. Stay tuned for details on the upcoming unveiling ceremony!

Ivanhoe Saints U12 Team Triumphs in Northcote Indoor Cricket Grand Final

Congratulations to Charlie Clarke, Harry Clarke, Max Fostineo and David Barr from our 23/24 U12 Blue Team for their outstanding victory in the Under 12B Northcote Indoor Cricket Grand Final last night! Their exceptional performance, beating the Preston Druids 79v77, earned them Premier medals and the honour of having the Ivanhoe Saints name etched onto the shield at the Northcote Indoor Sports Centre. Quinn Toohey, who was also part of the winning team, is set to join the Mighty Saints for the 2024/25 season, further strengthening our u12 ranks.

Well done to the boys for a fantastic start to the cricketing season—your hard work and dedication truly paying off!

Ivanhoe welcomes back Brad Loveluck and Troy Haynes for new Subbies season

The Saints have welcomed back one of Australia's best young coaches in Brad Loveluck, while former captain Troy Haynes is also back at Ivanhoe Park for the 2024-25 Subbies campaign.

It all points to a stronger season on and off the field.

Loveluck was an assistant coach at Hobart Hurricanes and head coach of New Town in Tasmania, while he was also head coach of Victorian Premier Cricket club Camberwell.

He will look to build the club for the present and future as high performance Manager and head of academies.

"The goal is to produce players to play for Victoria and Australia." Loveluck said.

"The club is heavily invested in participation and growing the junior section and I think there's a big need to get high-end coaches back to the grassroots level.

To read the full article on Apple News: click here

For the full article on the Herald Sun: click here

Join the Cricket Blaster Program at Ivanhoe This October

The Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club is excited to announce the return of our popular Cricket Blaster program, a highly successful program for young cricketers aged up to 10 years old. The program will run each Sunday at Ivanhoe Park in Ivanhoe from 9:00am to 10:00am. The upcoming season starts on October 13, 2024, and will run through to March 2, 2025.

The Cricket Blaster program is designed to provide a fun and engaging introduction to cricket, helping kids develop new skills, stay active, and make new friends in a supportive environment. Over the course of the program, participants will have the chance to learn the fundamentals of cricket while enjoying a range of exciting activities and games.

Key Details:

  • Dates: October 13, 2024, to March 2, 2025

  • Time: Sundays, 9:00am to 10:00am

  • Location: Ivanhoe Park, Ivanhoe

  • Cost: $119

The cost of $119 includes all sessions, personalised merchandise for each child, and a free membership to either the Melbourne Renegades or Melbourne Stars. This package not only provides great value but also ensures that every participant feels like part of the cricket community.

Jay Samuel, Vice President and Head of Juniors at the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club, expressed his enthusiasm for the returning program: “We are thrilled to bring back the Cricket Blaster program for another successful season. It has been wonderful to see the positive impact it has had on the children each year. Our aim is to offer a fun and educational cricket experience where kids can learn new skills, stay active, and build friendships. We look forward to welcoming both returning and new participants to this fantastic program!”

Spaces fill up quickly, so we encourage parents to register soon to secure a spot for their young cricketers. For more information or to sign up, please register here or email us at the club.

Come and be part of another great season at Ivanhoe Park with the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club!

Junior Pre-Season Kicks Off with Success

Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club Kicks off Junior Pre-Season with Success!!

The Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club launched its pre-season training this week for their juniors, drawing young cricketers to Parade College’s new state-of-the-art facilities in Bundoora. The session, led by Brad Loveluck, the club’s new Head of Academies and High Performance, set an enthusiastic tone for the upcoming season.

Loveluck, who brings a wealth of experience in developing cricketing talent, was thrilled with the turnout. “The energy from the kids was fantastic,” he said. “Our goal is to enhance their skills while fostering a love for the game, and these world-class facilities are perfect for that.”

Parade College, with its premier cricketing infrastructure, offered an ideal setting for the training. The new cricketing facility features high-quality nets and top-tier equipment, providing the young players with exceptional training resources.

The pre-season program is open to everyone and includes eight weeks of training. The first two sessions are free for all new and returning players. For those who sign on to play in the 2024/25 season with the Ivanhoe Saints, the program is entirely free. For players who wish to join the pre-season program but do not sign on, the cost is $240.

The successful pre-season kick-off is a promising start for the junior members of the Ivanhoe Saints Cricket Club as they prepare for a dynamic season ahead. With expert coaching and world-class facilities, the club is poised for a standout year in junior cricket.