The next of our graduating juniors to be waterboarded into spilling the beans about their time as a junior at Astwood Bank CC is Ben Tully , who at the age of only 15 is already considerably more rapid at bowling than his cousin.
Interview with Ben Tully: U15s Boys.
Q. So, Ben, tell me a little bit about yourself?
My name is Benjamin Tully, I’m 15 years old and I attend Ridgeway Secondary School. I like to play the piano, draw, and enjoy my time with Explorers hiking and camping.
Q. When did you start coming to Astwood Bank, and what made you want to play cricket?
I started when I was nine years old playing for the U10’s. I began playing cricket because my auntie’s family were very involved in the sport, and I wanted to give it a go and I haven’t stopped since!
Q. Who is the first team manager you can remember, and why?
The first team manager I had was Jon Summers. I remember it clearly as it was a new sport for me, and he was very understanding and took time to help me.
Q. If you had to pick one cricket legend, that really sticks out in your mind, who would that person be and why?
For me personally I would choose my cousin Tom Harris or better known at the club as ‘Meaty’. I’ve looked up to him as a good cricket player for some time and found him helpful when I wasn’t sure how to do something.
Q. What is one of your earliest memories of coming to the Bank?
When I first attended it was winter practice at Alcester Grammar School. I remember getting two wickets in a row. Now it doesn’t feel like much of an achievement but at the time I was so happy that I managed to do it.
Q. Can you remember one of the most memorable occasions at the Bank, and if so, what was it?
It’s hard to think of a single thing when all the people I have met have been either amazingly helpful or just to have a joke. So, throughout the years the most memorable thing I can think of is the people I have met.
Q. What would you say would be one of the best successes of all the fixtures that you have played, and why?
By no stretch of the imagination am I an amazing cricket player compared to the other phenomenal players on my team that I have had the pleasure to play with. Some games were better than others, but I can just say the wickets I have got over the course of the years have been a rush of excitement for me.
Q. Can you remember a funny moment at the Bank?
Nothing to pinpoint exactly in my head but I can say that every match came out being an experience and always a laugh afterwards.
Q. What advice would you give to a young person who is considering joining Astwood Bank juniors?
Do it! Even if you’re unsure you might enjoy it and make friends for life!
Q. If you could sum up your experiences, of your time, in the juniors at Astwood bank, in two words only, what would those two words be?
Enjoyable Experience!!
Q. Is there anything else that you would like to say
Thanks to Claire Davies for organizing all the matches and a special thank you to all my coaches that have tried their best to help improve my skills as a cricket player.
A great interview Ben: you’ve been an absolute credit to the junior section And the club
Well Ben, you’ve made it right through to the end of the juniors, I’m really proud that you kept on trying and improving, not many others would be as committed you have been. You are a credit to ABCC, representing the club, always striving to improve and make a difference to the overall teams performance, an exceptional team player. Keep going Ben, you’ve made it this far, playing and training outside of your comfort zone all these years, adult cricket will bring its challenges to you but I’m confident like always that you’ll give it your best shot - well done and thank you.