Belated 2021 Presentation Day

Uphill Castle celebrated their 2021 season with a less formal awards presentation on the May Day Bank Holiday. Due to the uncertainty around Covid regulations last year the committee took the decision to delay the annual wards night, in favor of a less formal event at the club house.

The day started with the now annual Pads V Grabs interclub game. This proved to be a bonus pre season game, allowing the players some much needed time out in the middle before next weeks season openers the teams. Yet again 2nd XI captain Craig Grabham got one over 1st XI skipper Paddy Holyday, by leading his side to the Chairman’s cup for the 2nd year running. Man of the match went to 13 year old Harry Frake who despite being on the losing side, batted well above his years. Frake guided the tail to a respectable score from their 20 overs.

Following the match, a large crowd was welcomed to the presentation by new chairman Mike Holyday. Club captain Paddy Holyday then spoke to the club about the recent club survey, which included introducing the new Chairman of selectors Mark Patch and new Head Coach Phil Loud.
There was much excitement as the awards were handed out, celebrating all the achievements on the playing field last year as well as recognizing all the hard work off the pitch by our outstanding volunteers.

• Most improved young player – Harry Frake
• Young Player – Myles Bliss
• 3rd Team player – Peter Skeen
• 2nd Team player – Ben Castle
• 1st Team player – George Cox
• UCCC special award – Ade Gardener
• Club woman of the year – Sarah Holyday
• Clubman of the year – Roger Fry

There was also an emotional moment when Dave Kelley was a awarded an Honorary Life membership. This award is very rarely given out and is an award that goes to people that really make a difference to the club. Dave really has given his all to the club over a great many years, this award is a reward for all his hard work.

We now look forward to the start of the 2022 season, UP THE CASTLE !