Capping tradition reinstated

FIRST 11 MEMBERS HONOURED: Gisborne Boys’ High School principal Andrew Turner (right) presents Matthew Foster with his cricket first 11 cap. Picture by Jack Malcolm

CRICKET

Gisborne Boys’ High School cricket reinstated a long-lost tradition before their game against High School Old Boys on Saturday.

For the first time in over three decades, the first 11 had a capping ceremony, where players received their “baggy cap”.

Boys’ High first 11 coach Mal Trowell said he believed it would help inspire the team and bring them together as a unit.

“Today is about dressing down tradition and bringing it back . . . it starts again today for us.”

This was a great honour and, as an old boy of the school, he was proud to bring back that tradition.

He said he hoped it would become a memory the players would look back on fondly.

“Today marks your journey; you’re now playing cricket at the highest level in the district.”

Gisborne Boys’ High School principal Andrew Turner presented the caps to the players.

During his remarks, he reminisced on his time playing high school cricket and what it meant to him.

He talked about what the caps signified, and said he was honoured to present them.

“There’s 122 years of tradition behind this crest when you put these (caps) on.

“Remember what’s on that crest: Virtus Repulsae Nescia — Courage Knows No Defeat.”