PLAYING in the Integrated Cricket League (ICL) has inspired not just Dylan Beresford but his whole family.
The league gives players living with disability an opportunity to play cricket and Dylan (25) is in his fourth season with Kardinya Lakes Cricket Club.
His mother Debbie said playing in the league had been a life-changing experience for Dylan.
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READ NOW“He was diagnosed with fragile x syndrome at three-years-old but he’s always loved sport,” she said.
“He has a passion for cricket and I decided to jump on board as team manager.
“There is a sense of belonging for Dylan, he loves playing with his guys and there is a great sense of camaraderie.
“His skill levels have improved too, one of the coaches nicknamed him Tendulkar.”
Debbie said Dylan had inspired other family members to take up cricket with Kardinya Lakes as well.
“It’s rubbed off on us all, I’ve started playing in the women’s team, my husband plays with the men and Dylan’s sister Hope (8) plays with the juniors,” she said.
“My family loves the atmosphere at the club, there is so much inclusion.”
Among the highlights of Dylan’s time with Kardinya Lakes is playing at the WACA and meeting WA stars Mitch Marsh and Marcus Stoinis to get tips.
The ICL received a boost with Belt Up becoming a sponsor for the league.
The first year of this partnership will see all ICL teams have access to new specialty equipment that will service the specific needs of players within the team including visual aids, different sized balls and customised bats.
All 16 teams will also receive a team kit bag which will include two helmets and Belt Up bat stickers for every player within the team.
As part of the Belt up partnership, community cricket, including the ICL, will receive $1 million over the next four years.