Simon Barnett is confident London Maccabi Vale can celebrate their 60th anniversary in style with promotion from the Chess Valley League.
LMV have gained promotion each season since joining the CVL and they will be competing against the likes of Stanmore, Winchmore Hill, Wembley and West Herts in a 10-team league where the top three teams go up. Abbots Langley, Bessborough, Watford Town, St John’s Wood and Chingford complete the line-up in Division Three.
LMV chairman Simon Barnett said: “The senior team have had a fantastic run in recent years but I expect them to find things tougher this year, playing against some of London’s top clubs.
"I’m confident we can push on again and hope to see a significant number of LMV players selected for the GB squad at the 2017 Maccabiah Games — both from the senior and junior set-up."
Winter nets for the men’s team commenced this week while the colts squad start their preparations a week later.
Barnett admits he is surprised by the drop in numbers in the amateur game but he says LMV’s future looks bright. “It’s unbelievable how few Jewish cricket teams there are in London today,” he said. “I’d love to see LMV return to fielding two XI’s and am conscious of the gap between our under-15 team and Seniors.
"We need to encourage more people who want to play to play and it’s vital we continue to produce and maintain the best facilities available.
"Celebrating 60 years is a tremendous milestone. We have maintained and developed the colts section over the years and I want all our junior players to continue to learn, develop and progress with an even higher win ratio."
LMV will hold an anniversary supper at the end of the season and Barnett said: “It should be an event that embraces everyone, from presidents to honorary members, many of whom continue to attend matches and support us."
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