Police Chief James Rovella, holding T-shirt, poses with some of the children, parents, officials, and supporters who attended the event.
Despite occasional sprinkles of rain and chilly weather, the Cricket Fun Day which was staged at Hartford’s Global Communications Academy’s field on Saturday, May 7, by the Hartford Police Athletic League (PAL) in collaboration with the Cricket Hall of Fame, was a rousing success.
The event which was organized to introduce the game, the second most popular sport in the world, to youngsters in the Hartford area, drew about 50 children, some of whom were accompanied by their parents.
On arrival the children were presented with T-shirts then taken to the field where they enjoyed themselves participating in an impromptu game which lasted for about four hours, listening to music and having fun in a bounce house, one of the attractions. They were also treated to a lively performance by the Hartford Proud drill team.
Police Chief James Rovella, one of the main persons behind the event, said that he was very pleased with the turnout and believes that if it was not for the weather it would have been even greater. “At least we can look on it as a good start to the program,” he said.
According to the response of the children and adults who attended, it would be good if they hold this event again. “It is something that can help to bring the police and community more together,” one excited parent said.
One of the oldest bat and ball game in the world, cricket which resembles baseball, also has catches, hits, innings and runs. Baseball actually came out of the sport.
Some of the aspects of the game are that it helps to develop a child’s mind, body and spirit, and lays the foundation for their success as an adult.
Cricket also provides a fun way for children of all ages to stay or get in shape by improving coordination, strength, speed, agility, flexibility and reflexes. It increases concentration, the ability to think strategically and tactically, helps them to overcome obstacles, utilizes decision-making skills, cultivates a sense of fair play, self control, integrity and respect for others. Cricket promotes discipline, self-assurance and responsibility and provides positive interaction with peers and adults.
Because of these attributes Chief Rovella said that it is his aim to develop a Hartford PAL cricket team that will be able to travel throughout the state and possible other states to play games and to spread the message of how the game has help them to improve their lives.
Mayor Luke Bronin showed up to show his support, and congratulated the organizers for putting on a welcoming event.
At the end of the program all the children who participated were presented with commemorative medals and trophies.