FAQ

What are the full membership fees for senior and junior players?

Senior playing membership covers the season, while Junior membership covers a shorter summer fixture list. Both include winter nets plus winter coaching. We also offer discounted rates for students, unemployed members, and non-playing social members.

Senior Membership is just £125 including 8x winter nets at S20 The Boundary - https://s20theboundary.co.uk/

Junior membership is £75 also including winter nets and coaching at the same venue.

Are there match fees, and what do they cover?

Yes, we charge a small match fee per game of £10. This fee is separate from the annual membership and covers crucial on-the-day expenses like providing balls, teas (where applicable), and shared costs for umpire/scorer fees.

How much does a full playing kit cost, and where can I buy it?

You are generally required to provide your own whites, bat, and protective gear. Club-branded playing shirts and caps must be purchased through our official online club shop or kit supplier. We aim to keep costs affordable and often offer starter bundles. Our current line of gear is available via Owzat Cricket - https://www.owzat-cricket.co.uk/club-shops/norton-woodseats-cricket-club-shop

What payment options do you accept for membership fees?

We offer flexible payment structures. You can pay the full amount upfront for a discount or pay via monthly direct debit instalments. Fees must be paid by a specified date (e.g., start of the season) to confirm your selection eligibility.

Where is the main cricket ground and clubhouse located?

Our home ground and brand-new clubhouse are located at Matthews Lane, Norton, Sheffield. It's easily accessible via the A61 and A6102 Bochum Parkway. We are located close to our spiritual home of Graves Park still but now much closer to the far end of the park (where the animal farm is located). The ground offers plenty of on and off-site parking for players and guests via our private car park & partnership with Norton Free CE Primary School.

Where and when do the teams train?

During the summer season (April–September), training is held at the main ground on Thursday evenings. Junior coaching usually takes place on Friday evenings. Both from 6 p.m. Winter nets are held at a local indoor facility starting in January at S20 The Boundary - https://s20theboundary.co.uk/.

What senior and junior teams does the club run?

We run 2 senior Saturday league teams in the Yorkshire Southern Premier Cricket League (e.g., 1st XI, 2nd XI) and typically 3 junior age-group teams ranging from U9s to U13s. We cater to all skill levels, from highly competitive to development cricket.

What is the expected commitment level for players?

For league teams, we ask players to commit to consistent availability throughout the season (e.g., at least 75% of games) to ensure stability. If you can only play occasionally, we can often accommodate you in a development side or a friendly fixture.

What level of coaching is available for adult and junior members?

All our junior coaching is delivered by ECB-qualified and DBS-checked coaches. Senior members benefit from structured weekly training sessions run by a qualified senior coach, focusing on specific skills and match scenarios.

Is the club ECB Clubmark accredited? What does that mean for safety and standards?

Yes, we are ECB Clubmark registered. This confirms that the club operates to a high standard, particularly in junior cricket, ensuring we meet strict requirements for governance, coaching, safety, and child welfare.

Are there social events outside of match days that members can attend?

Definitely. We hold regular social events throughout the year, including quiz nights, race nights, presentation evenings, and family BBQs, all designed to make the club a community hub. Social members are welcome to attend all non-match day events. Our clubhouse is also open through the winter to help keep the Woodseats family together and help each other get through the harsh British winter.

What is the selection process for senior teams?

Teams are selected weekly by a dedicated selection committee. Selection is based on performance, training attendance, attitude and availability. We aim to place every player at the highest level appropriate for their skill set to aid development.

How is the club run, and what is the role of the Committee?

The club is run entirely by volunteer members. The General Committee oversees all operations, including finances, grounds, and social activities. New members are always encouraged to attend the AGM and volunteer for roles.

What equipment does the club provide for players?

The club provides all match balls for league games, as well as shared team equipment (e.g., pads, bats and protective equipment). Junior teams have access to shared team bats and pads, reducing initial outlay for families.

Are there non-playing membership options for parents or supporters?

Yes. Social membership is available at a reduced fee. This allows you to use the brand-new bar and lounge facilities, attend social events, and feel part of the community without the commitment of playing.

Do you have dedicated winter coaching/nets?

We run structured, indoor winter nets for both seniors and juniors starting in the new year (typically January) at a local sports hall. This ensures players maintain skills and fitness leading into the new season.

Are there opportunities for me to volunteer at the club?

We are a volunteer-run club and rely on help! We actively seek volunteers for the Committee, scoring, umpiring, junior coaching assistance, bar duty, and ground maintenance. Your support is critical to keeping fees low. Some roles are paid seats - specifically scoring. So if you would like earn money whilst watching the game, come and speak to us.

Does the club have a strong focus on junior development and a clear pathway to senior cricket?

Yes. Our whole structure is built around developing young talent. We ensure a clear pathway by having junior players join senior training and feature in lower senior teams when appropriate and safe, giving them invaluable experience.