Power of sport
August 2024
The power of sport has hit me once again with the sad news of Graham Thorpe’s passing.
Thorpe was a batsmen I saw many times over the years. He was instantly recognisable, mixing skill with grit. Thinking of him brought back some vivid cricket memories.
It was nine years ago this week I was lucky enough to be at Trent Bridge to see Stuart Broad take 8-for-15 in the Ashes. It was spell-binding and remains one of the best cricketing days I’ve had.
Thorpe became a batting coach for England after stopping playing and Broad paid tribute to his influence on the current generation of England players in interviews this week, as did Thorpe’s former batting partner Mike Atherton.
I love that sport has the power to make memories at all levels - from playing in the back garden to turning out in the Manchester Professionals Cricket League.
The league - and its football equivalent - created many memories for the players who took part. I remember matches with Simon Briffa (Assoc CIPD) Briffa and Barney Gibson ; or turning out alongside James Litherland, Andrew Little, and Edward Locke. Plus the guys at JMW Solicitors LLP.
The power of sporting stories also meant Sellick Partnership raised a lot of money for Lord's Taverners to support its youth and disability sports activities. Our charity dinners with guest speakers like Paul Allott, Michael Vaughan, and many more, were great occasions full of stories.
Sport creates life-long friendships and brings people together, either to play, to watch, or to reminisce. I remember turning out with my housemates to play Sunday afternoon cricket for a Sheffield pub side in the early 1990s as if it was yesterday.
The Olympics will be creating memories and inspiring the next generations of runners, throwers, jumpers, divers, rowers, cyclists and more I’m sure. And the new football season will doubtless do the same.
So rest in peace Graham Thorpe, there’s many a cricketer who picked up a bat after watching you play. Thanks for the memories you’ve sparked, like you they shine so bright.