Cricket Australia is delighted to announce Allison Gray (Para Hills Cricket Club, South Australia) as the winner of the 2025–26 Community Cricket Coach of the Year Award, recognising her outstanding dedication to junior cricket and the profound impact she has made within her club and community.
Award Winner: Allison Gray – Para Hills Cricket Club (SA)
Allison Gray’s coaching journey is a powerful example of the difference passion, organisation and genuine care can make at community level. Stepping into the role of Under 10s coach at Para Hills Cricket Club with little notice and minimal prior coaching experience, Allison embraced the challenge with confidence and commitment. In a short period of time, she has built one of the most structured, organised and effective junior programs the club has seen.
Allison’s approach is grounded in fairness, inclusion and enjoyment. She dedicates significant time each week to planning training sessions and match rotations, carefully tracking participation to ensure every child has equal opportunities to bat and bowl throughout the season. This exceptional level of organisation ensures no player is overlooked and that every participant remains engaged, motivated and valued.
Her training sessions are fun, inclusive and skill‑focused, making excellent use of Cricket Australia coaching resources to deliver age‑appropriate learning in an encouraging environment. Allison places a strong emphasis on respect—fostering positive behaviours towards umpires, opponents, parents and officials—and creates a space where children feel safe, confident and excited to take part.
Beyond player development, Allison has had a lasting cultural impact on Para Hills Cricket Club. She has helped broaden traditional perceptions of junior coaching, demonstrating that committed parents—particularly mothers—can lead high‑quality, professional programs. By actively engaging parents and welcoming their involvement, she has strengthened the club’s junior community and inspired others to contribute.
Most importantly, Allison has helped young players grow not only as cricketers, but as people—instilling confidence, teamwork and a lifelong love of the game. Her influence perfectly reflects the spirit of the Community Cricket Coach of the Year Award.
Highly Commended: Allan Hobley – Nyabing Cricket Club (WA)
The judging panel also extends high commendation to Allan Hobley of Nyabing Cricket Club, Western Australia, in recognition of his strong commitment to community coaching and the positive impact he continues to have on players and the wider club environment. Allan’s nomination highlights the vital role dedicated volunteer coaches play in sustaining and growing cricket in regional and community settings.
Cricket Australia congratulates Allison Gray on her well‑deserved recognition and thanks Allan Hobley and all nominees across the country for their invaluable contribution to community cricket and the development of the next generation.