The Auckland Indian Sports Club has received $6500 for new cricket uniforms thanks to the New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT).
The local club was founded in 1936 by Indians who had migrated to New Zealand and settled in Pakuranga Heights.
Club secretary Vinod Patel told the Times its team plays in the Auckland Cricket Association competition.
Team members come from across Auckland and play at cricket grounds all over the city including at Lloyd Elsmore Park in Pakuranga.
It’s since become a hub for more than 200 members, with 20 teams and more than 100 juniors participating in various sports.
This longstanding tradition fosters deep family bonds and social ties, with senior members often seen cheering on younger players.
The grant will enhance the club’s ability to support emerging talent.
“In order to provide clearly defined pathways for our emerging player and coaching talent, it’s crucial for our teams to have the correct kit and equipment,” Patel says.
“NZCT’s generous support not only improves our club’s sustainability but also provides sporting, training, and recreational equipment and services to the entire Auckland community.
“Our members have been nurtured through sport with fantastic groups of friends, many of whom joined the club when they were five years old.”
Patel says NZCT has allowed the club to keep its registration fees to a minimum, encouraging participation and enhancing connections with local community members who socialise outside of sport.
“Many of these bonds were originally born from the sports teams that got us together in the first place.”
Patel says the grant “significantly impacts” the club’s activities and will allow it to form and maintain teams, enjoy the benefit of physical well-being through improved fitness, and “experience the invaluable effect on mental well-being that comes from making connections that can last a lifetime”.
Club vice-president Alpesh Patel adds: “The importance of teamwork from an early age and the confidence gained from sports cannot be underestimated.
“Sports at a junior/youth level encourage health and fitness and focus minds on positive pursuits.”
NZCT’s general manager of grants, marketing and communications, Ben Hodges, says joining a sports club has many physical and mental health benefits for the whole family, especially for new New Zealanders.
“We’re delighted the funds we raise through responsible gaming with trusted Auckland hospitality partners is making such a positive contribution to the community.”
NZCT is one of the largest gaming societies in New Zealand.
In 2023/2024, it awarded over $40 million in grants for a wide range of community services, including sports, rescue services, youth development, the arts, and cultural activities.
