At blue self storage, we know that local clubs are about much more than sport.
They are places where people come together, friendships are built and communities grow stronger.
That is exactly what makes Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club so special.
We recently caught up with Derek Pickin, Chairman of Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club, to hear more about the club, its history and why local support means so much.
Derek has been part of the club since 1952, which is quite some innings. His love for cricket is clear from the moment he starts talking.
“I just love cricket,” he says.
For Derek, the club is more than a place to play. It is a community hub that welcomes everyone, regardless of background, age or ability.
A Club That Welcomes Everyone
One of the things Derek is most proud of is how open and inclusive the club is.
“We don’t turn anybody away,” he explains. “We welcome everybody.”
At a time when conversations around inclusion in sport are more important than ever, Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club continues to show what grassroots sport should be about. Friendly faces, team spirit and a place where everyone feels they belong.
Derek shared how one of the club’s Asian players, who is also a GP, once wrote about his experience at the club during a difficult period for professional cricket. His words reflected the welcoming, supportive environment that Rogerstone has worked hard to create.
That kind of culture does not happen by accident. It is built over years by volunteers, players, families and supporters who care deeply about the club.
Helping Young Players Grow
For Derek, one of the best parts of being involved is watching young players develop.
Seeing juniors come through the club, improve their skills and go on to play at a higher level is something that brings real pride.
Cricket is a team game, but it also gives individuals the chance to challenge themselves. When you are batting, it is just you out there, but you are still part of something bigger. That balance helps build confidence, resilience and team spirit.
For young people, that is priceless.
The club is also focused on growing its junior section, bringing more children into the game and giving them a positive place to learn, play and make friends.
Creating Opportunities For The Next Generation
One standout moment for the club was when some of its young players were invited to be mascots at the South Africa versus England World Cup game.
For the children involved, it was a memory they will never forget.
Moments like that show why grassroots clubs matter. They create opportunities, open doors and inspire young players to keep going.
Supporting Women and Girls in Cricket
Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club is also proud to have a ladies section, with women’s practice taking place every Wednesday.
The club hopes to continue developing this side of the game and grow a girls section in the future.
With more women and girls getting involved in cricket, clubs like Rogerstone play a huge role in making the sport accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Why Sponsorship Matters
Running a cricket club is not easy. Facilities need maintaining, equipment needs replacing and opportunities for players need funding.
As Derek puts it, keeping a club going can be a challenge.
That is why support from local businesses is so important.
Sponsorship helps grassroots clubs continue doing what they do best. It keeps facilities open, supports volunteers and gives players of all ages the chance to enjoy the game.
At blue self storage, we are proud to support clubs like Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club. These are the places where communities come together, young people grow in confidence and sport continues to thrive at a local level.
More Than Just Cricket
Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club is built on passion, inclusion and community spirit.
From young players taking their first steps in the game to older members still enjoying their place on the boundary, the club brings generations together through a shared love of cricket.
And that is what makes grassroots sport so important.
It is not just about runs, wickets or results. It is about people. It is about belonging. It is about giving everyone a place to play.
We are proud to support Rogerstone Welfare Cricket Club and look forward to seeing the club continue to grow for years to come.
