Oswestry Cricket Club's Women and Girls section (WaGs) is a unique and thriving community, with a focus on nurturing mother-daughter pairs in competitive cricket. This article explores the club's success in attracting and supporting these pairs, highlighting the positive impact on both the players and the community.
The WaGs section has an impressive 10 mother-daughter pairs, with ages ranging from 12 to 67. The oldest member, Jools Payne, is a founding player and team manager, embracing the 'Wags' moniker with pride. Her oldest daughter, Naomi, is a driving force behind the women's section's success, which began in 2018 with a softball competition. Naomi's initiative and persuasion brought her mother and younger sister Holly into the fold, and the team has since grown to 33 players, achieving remarkable success in various tournaments.
Jools attributes the club's success to a nurturing environment and a focus on individual shine within a team setting. She believes that the mother-daughter dynamic, combined with the presence of teachers and a supportive team, creates a 'wonderful thing' for the players. The social aspect is also significant, with the Wags regularly attending England women's cricket matches and hosting events like a T20 World Cup final party.
The club's approach to cricket is inclusive and supportive, with a focus on active participation and a positive environment. Jools highlights the importance of nurturing mums and their daughters into the game, citing a Mumsnet webinar on the topic. The WaGs also appreciate the convenience of period pants, a practical solution for players with periods.
The Oswestry Wags' success story is a testament to the power of community and support in sports. By embracing the Wags moniker and creating a nurturing environment, the club has fostered a thriving and inclusive cricket community, with a focus on mother-daughter pairs. This unique approach to cricket has not only brought families together but has also contributed to the overall growth and success of the sport in the region.
