Cricket: Pupils get a buzz from Volts

Otago Volts batsman Jesse Ryder poses for a photograph with Aron Sam Blesson (5), of Tainui...
Otago Volts batsman Jesse Ryder poses for a photograph with Aron Sam Blesson (5), of Tainui Primary School, at a Junior Volts day at Logan Park yesterday. Photo by Gerard O'Brien.
Otago Volts batsman Jeese Ryder provides a few throw-downs during a ...Junior Volts day at Logan...
Otago Volts batsman Jeese Ryder provides a few throw-downs during a ...Junior Volts day at Logan Park yesterday. Photo by Gerard O'Brien
Tom Procter (10) of Elmgrove School takes a catch during a Junior Volts ...day at Logan Park...
Tom Procter (10) of Elmgrove School takes a catch during a Junior Volts ...day at Logan Park yesterday. Photo by Gerard O'Brien

Otago Volts batsman Jesse Ryder poses for a photograph with Aron Sam Blesson (5), of Tainui...
Otago Volts batsman Jesse Ryder poses for a photograph with Aron Sam Blesson (5), of Tainui Primary School, at a Junior Volts day at Logan Park yesterday. Photo by Gerard O'Brien.
Look who is back - it's Jesse Ryder.

The former Black Cap was off limits to the media yesterday but not to the next generation of cricketers.

The 30-year-old was a popular man at Otago Cricket's Junior Volts day at Logan Park yesterday.

About 130 5 to 12-year-olds embraced the opportunity to have a run around and get some tips from their favourite Otago players.

Ryder, fresh from an impressive county stint with Essex, posed for photographs and signed autographs, much to the delight of 5-year-old Aron Sam Blesson and the others who managed to secure his valued signature.

The Tainui Primary School pupil said meeting the talented left-hander was the best part of his day.

Otago Cricket Association community cricket co-ordinator Tama Walker said the event was about introducing children to the game and providing a ''whole heap'' of holiday fun.

''We want to make sure if kids are keen on cricket they've got opportunities to play and meet the stars, as well,'' Walker said.

''When you've got stars like what we've got, it is a big drawcard. But as long as we can make the game fun and exciting, then kids are going to want to play. That is what my role is. It is to go into the primary schools, predominantly, and make sure it is a lot of fun for them.''

 

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