Goring-by-Sea CC Juniors celebrate momentous season

A landmark 2026 season saw Goring CC’s juniors thrive across every age group, winning two Sussex Festival Shield finals and the Sussex U9/U10 County title while strengthening the pathway into adult cricket.

Based at Goring Recreation Ground, the club only relaunched its junior section in 2017 with the introduction of the ECB All Stars and Dynamos programmes. The 8-week introduction to the sport now sees over 100 boys and girls taking part, some of whom go on to join the club to play team cricket. In 2026, Goring has 150 junior members. Age group teams exist from U9 through to U14 for mixed teams, as well as girls teams competing at U11 and U12. Some of the juniors are so good that all 4 adult teams fielded youth members this year, 20 stepped up in total.

In 2026 the juniors had successful campaigns in the West Area League, but it was when the summer cricket festivals started that they really showed their potential.

“Festival cricket is a wonderful, unique experience where each age group plays 4 long format games in a week against opponents drawn from leagues of over 20 teams. Two finalists then go on to contest a final. Goring entered teams in the U11, U12, U13 and U14 mixed festivals, as well as the U11 and U12 girls. Of the 4 mixed festival teams entered, we lost only 1 game.” Paul Fryer, Junior Cricket Chairman, Goring CC

The U11 and U12 teams were unbeaten in their qualifying matches before each going one better and winning their Shield finals. The U13s finished 6th in their 21-team league, narrowly losing a tight game against Balcombe that ultimately cost them a final spot. The U14s won all 4 games, finishing 3rd out of 26. The Girls U11 side were competitive and won 1 of their 3 matches against tough opposition.

The U9/U10s take part in a one day festival of cricket with the winners qualifying for the county finals. Goring fielded 3 teams. The Firsts powered through the festival before going on to claim the county title and be crowned the number 1 U9/10 team in Sussex.

“It is hard to put into words how proud the club is of all our juniors – results and trophies are wonderful but even more important are the memories and friendships being built, and the spirit in which the teams play the game.” Paul Fryer

The Goring committee is now planning for the 2027 season, which will involve winter nets and a newly formed academy at the club. There are greater challenges ahead as the successful festival teams will likely move up from Shield to Bowl level next season, the highest level of competition in Sussex. Paul and his coaches know their players will relish the opportunity to test their skills there.

Goring CC is constantly open to new junior and adult members as well as sponsors and helpers. If you or your children are keen to join a friendly, thriving and vibrant cricket club, please reach out to [email protected] for further information.