President's Address
Initially, a huge amount of gratitude must be given to Tanja, aided by her sub- committee, to develop and roll out the first Strategic Plan for the Connacht Cricket Union. The importance of the implementation of the plan for our emerging Union cannot be underestimated, as the opportunity to fully develop cricket in the West of Ireland can assist the appeal of our fantastic team sport. The increase in the number of clubs participating in the league and competitions in the West, shows that Cricket is gathering pace as a game for all.
Youth Cricket, Women’s Cricket and the Adult Men’s Teams are enjoying the skills and determination shown by all those participating and in the background. The Chairman of the Union, Jeff Smith, has expressed his determination that the Board of the Connacht Cricket Union will do all in their power to achieve the goals set out in the Connacht Cricket Union Strategic Plan. I will give my full support to these efforts.
Yours in Cricket,
Ronan F. Mahon
President of the Connacht Cricket Union
Chairperson's Address
This is our Union’s first meaningful Strategic Plan, which, in itself, is a notable milestone in our brief history. Hopefully, it will result in the significant growth of our Union, and the continued improvement of the service it provides to our Clubs. It is based on the detailed feedback from extensive research undertaken with our Clubs, their players, the Board of our Union and many with a close interest in the development of Cricket throughout Connacht. The research, which was painstakingly carried out, has enabled the Union to set out it aims, together with its objectives over the next five years.
The Plan’s success will, largely, depend on the support of the Union’s Clubs. In its preparation, the level of enthusiasm for the game throughout the Province was immediately obvious, while the potential for growth is enormous. Capitalising on this potential will only be achieved with the support, and commitment of our Clubs, who must now prepare their own Strategic Plans, to compliment the Union’s efforts. Our future is in their hands! However, from the work to date, this future is very bright.
I would especially like to express the Board’s gratitude to the Working Party for its preparation of this Plan. In particular, I wish to thank our External Directors, Ms. Tanja Schafer, and Gerry O’Neill, whose experience and expertise has been invaluable. They, together with our Chairperson of our Participation & Development Committee, Rakesh Dalwini, have shown enormous commitment
Jeff Smith
Chairperson of the Connacht Cricket Union
Our Vision: Growing Our Connacht Community, Developing Our Game
At the heart of the Connacht Cricket Union’s vision is a commitment to building a stronger cricketing community and raising the standard of the game across the West of Ireland. We aim to grow participation, foster inclusivity, and strengthen connections within and beyond our clubs. At the same time, we are focused on developing cricket through improved coaching, better facilities, and enhanced opportunities for players and volunteers alike. Together, we’re working to create a vibrant and sustainable future for cricket in Connacht.
Connacht Cricket Union Board Members
Connacht Cricket is led by a dedicated board who are passionate about growing the game across the province. Each member brings valuable expertise and a shared commitment to developing cricket at all levels — from grassroots to competitive play.
Below is our current board, working behind the scenes to support our players, clubs, and community:
| Name | Position | Additional Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Ronan F. Mahon | President | |
| Jeff Smith | Chairperson & President Elect | Grounds Committee Chair |
| Steve Wood | Honorary Secretary | Competitions Committee Secretary, Match Officials Committee Chair |
| Arun Babu | Honorary Treasurer | |
| John O’Dea | Board Member | Disciplinary Committee Chair |
| Paul Shelly | Board Member | Commercial Committee Chair |
| Abdul Shafique | Board Member | |
| Rakesh Dalwani | Board Member | Development & Pathways Chair |
| Gerry O’Neill | External Director | |
| John F. Martin | External Director | Appeals Committee Chair |
| Tanja Schafer | External Director | Competitions Committee Chair |
| George Francis | External Director | |
| Sarah Barry | Child Protection Officer | |
| Ciara O’Neill | Public Relations Officer |