The Highlands cricketing fraternity is embracing a proposal to have Bowral Blues Cricket Club's home ground at Centennial Park named in honour of local cricket legend, Brian Martin.
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Clubs and players across the district are providing early support for the idea, which has been raised by the Bowral Blues Cricket Club (BBCC) committee.
A decision on the matter would ultimately be made by Wingecarribee Shire Council, given that the oval within the Centennial Park precinct at West Bowral is a public facility.
BBCC is appealing to individuals and families who have seen and benefitted from Brian's efforts over the past 25 years to supply written support, to ensure Brian's contributions are understood.
Local clubs and the Highlands District Cricket Association have been notified and asked for support.
BBCC President Ian Pope said "Brian Martin has been synonymous with local cricket for more than 25 years, and it's no surprise that he is often referred to as 'Mr Cricket."
"His contributions include administration at the highest level, coaching, mentoring, playing and charity activity," he said.
"Naming Centennial Oval after Brian would be a fitting tribute, and it's been heartening to see local clubs and so many others across the district back the idea so quickly.
"We emphasise that this isn't Brian's idea. In fact, he's been shut out of the process. It's up to people in the community to write in and say they support the proposal."
BBCC Secretary Michael Heinecke said Brian's signature achievement was transforming Centennial Oval nine years ago.
"It's easy to forget that the oval was a derelict site until Brian spearheaded its rejuvenation into one of the most appealing playing grounds in the district," Heinecke said.
"That included coordinating a major civil works program and having the pitch, nets and fencing installed."
BBCC Board Member Priyan Wikramanayake said Brian's efforts maintaining the ground was another story.
"Brian spends much of his personal time tending to maintenance work at the ground year-in-year out, ensuring the site is in top order," Wikramanayake said.
"Everyone knows of Brian's affinity with Centennial Oval."
Brian's focus on coaching cricket at club and representative level are second to none.
BBCC Board Member Matt Watson said "It says something when you have grown men playing local cricket and even running clubs who talk about being coached by Brian when they were kids."
"To this day Brian uses his personal equipment and gives up his time to provide year-round coaching, producing some of the best rep cricketers around - and he does the lot free of charge," he said.
Another figure who has seen Brian's efforts up close is former England International and one of the world's most influential cricket coaches, Barry Knight.
"Anyone who's anyone in Highlands cricket knows of Brian's contributions," Knight said.
"Naming the magnificent Centennial Oval after Brian is a perfect way to recognise all this man has done."
BBCC is asking people from past and present to send dated and signed letters and emails in support of the proposal to Michael.Heinecke@norskeskog.com or mwatson@reputecommunications.com.au.
Correspondence can be addressed 'To Whom It May Concern,' and should be sent by COB Monday, April 13.