Doveton Cricket Club legend Keith Dawson notched up an unbeaten half-century in his 400th game for the club on the weekend. By Glen Atwell
PASS the Doveton Cricket Club on any summer’s day and chances are you’ll see Keith Dawson.
It might be in his shed nicknamed ‘Smokey’ or on the turf wicket where he guides the heavy roller for countless hours every season.
Dawson works tirelessly to provide his club with top-notch facilities and on Sunday he was recognised for 37 years of continued effort. It was his 400th match and Dawson blasted an unbeaten half-century to help clinch victory for his over 35s side against Endeavour Hills.
The 51-year-old club stalwart was chaired from the ground by team-mates and presented with a medal by captain Stuart Batten in recognition of his long service to the Frawley Road club.
But Dawson’s services to his beloved club never end at stumps. He is the full-time curator of the turf wicket, coach of the under 13s and started as curator at Endeavour Hills Cricket Club this season.
Dawson’s dedication to local cricket is unmatched and since walking through the doors of Doveton Cricket Club at age 14, his passion for the game has never waned.
Typically unassuming, Dawson said it was great to have a win in his 400th game.
“It was a buzz, we had a good win and the players from Endeavour Hills were great about it,” he said.
After setting Endeavour Hills 179 for victory, the Doveton side made sure Dawson’s day was memorable, bowling out their opponents for 151.
Dawson also plays A-grade cricket on Saturdays, meaning his on and off-field duties cover seven days a week.
“I’ll give the pitch a water after the games on the weekend, prepare the Endeavour Hills turf on weekday mornings and then spend the rest of the day at Doveton,” he said. Dawson also manages to squeeze in coaching the juniors.
“I have someone helping me out with the juniors, but I enjoy coaching the young ones,” he said.
The all-rounder has had infinite highlights in his career, but can recall a couple of his greatest achievements.
“In the 1985 grand final, I scored 234 that was my highest career score and taken close to 600 wickets with the ball,” he said. A lunch at the Doveton Cricket Club on 22 January has been organised to celebrate the milestone and those interested in attending should contact the club.
