Jeff Levick has stepped down from his role of Chairman of the Hampshire Cricket Board, to be replaced by John Wolfe.
Jeff, who has occupied the role since 2002, officially handed over to John at a ceremony held at the home of Hampshire Cricket – The Ageas Bowl – this morning [Friday 2 November]. By way of marking Jeff’s considerable achievements in the job, he was presented with a Life Membership for Hampshire Cricket by outgoing Ageas Bowl Chairman, Rod Bransgrove.
Jeff said; “I was fortunate enough to retire early. This has given me the opportunity to indulge my hobby for the past 16 years.
“It really has been great fun and I only hope it can continue for many more years.”
Jeff has been involved in grassroots cricket for more than 50 years and, as Head of the ECB’s Regional Disability Cricket Development Forum for the South and West has been instrumental in developing disability cricket in the Hampshire region.
It was Jeff who, in 1997, set up the Disability Cricket Programme in Hampshire which still runs to this day. He sourced funding, recruited players, set up and ran coaching sessions and trained new coaches. He’s also responsible for establishing a Special Schools Coaching Programme providing opportunities for over 1,000 young people with disabilities every year.
Working tirelessly, he has also, in his time, established, coached and managed two Hampshire representative teams for people with learning and physical disabilities, managing the England Deaf Cricket Squad. For the past five years Jeff has been Chairman of Disability Cricket Development for the 11 counties in the South West region.
To say that he has made an impact on countless thousands of peoples’ lives is an understatement of the highest order.
And yet, it is only in recent years that Jeff has been truly recognised for the work he does, starting with a BBC Community Champion award in 2007 and extending to a National Lottery award for “Best Sporting Project” last November.
Following that, the 75 year old from Winchester was awarded an MBE in last year’s New Years Honours list.
Though he will be stepping down from his role of Chairman, he will continue much of his work with Hampshire’s Bluebird Care Disability Cricket programme.
John Wolfe has been a key part of Hampshire’s local cricket scene for many years having, variously, held the positions of Vice President of Hampshire’s Members’ Committee, Chairman and Life Vice President of the Southern Electric Premier League and President of New Milton CC.
He said; “It is a privilege to follow Jeff. He has made a huge contribution to the development of many aspects of recreational cricket in Hampshire and will continue to do so.
“I look forward to having the opportunity to join with Hampshire Cricket Board Cricket Development Director Ben Thompson and his team in working with clubs, schools, local authorities and others to make sure that we build on the progress made under Jeff’s leadership”.
Chairman of Hampshire Cricket, Rod Bransgrove said; “Jeff’s had a phenomenal impact, not only in Hampshire but on disability sport in general. His contribution to recreational cricket in Hampshire is legendary and, in particular, the way he’s helped to develop and lead our activities amongst the disabled community.
“His MBE last year is well-deserved and the ultimate recognition of an amazing career. I hope he enjoys his Life Membership and wish him all the best for his retirement.”
