If you’ve spent any time around cricket in Orange or Molong, you’ve probably heard of Dave Neil. He is one of the most committed and passionate cricket coaches in the region.
If anyone is at Wade Park in Orange on a Monday afternoon in the summer, they’ll find Dave there setting up Orange CYMS Cricket Club’s Woolworths Cricket Blast program, which in 2024/25 had 100 participants. Once that wraps up, he rolls straight into women’s cricket training, and then right into senior training after that. It’s not unusual for him to still be there past 8pm, throwing balls to anyone who wants to keep practicing.
This week, Cricket Australia announced Dave as Coach of the Year at this year’s National Community Cricket Awards. Earlier, in March, he had been named Cricket NSW Coach of the Year.
That’s because Dave isn’t just ticking boxes—he’s living out Cricket NSW’s mission of inspiring everyone to play and love cricket. Last year, when he found out that Molong - a small town 35 kilometres from Orange - didn’t have a Cricket Blast program, he created a Thursday afternoon program himself, saving families the trouble of driving to Orange and giving more local children the chance to play. Thanks to him, Thursdays during cricket season now brings cricket, fun, and opportunity to a group of 45 kids in Molong.
Dave's schedule during summer certainly reflects his deep commitment to the game. In addition to supporting Cricket Blast programs, he coaches a junior team on Saturday mornings, as well as helping with Orange CYMS Cricket Club’s women’s T20 team and Orange junior representative teams.
“Cricket is a big part of my life and my family’s life. My father, Terry, played cricket with Orange CYMS Cricket Club, as does my son, Paddy. It has given us all so much: enjoyment, friendships, physical and mental health, and some wonderful memories,” said Dave.
Understanding the financial barriers many families face, Dave has also worked hard to make cricket more affordable. He expanded the club’s sponsorship with McDonald’s Orange and Cowra, which now provides $50 towards the registration costs of 50 Cricket Blast participants.
He has helped the Orange District Cricket Association build its women’s cricket program to include a 13-team Friday night social league and a club-based T20 competition.
Without being asked, he assisted players from all clubs, ensuring the session ran smoothly and that everyone felt supported. Dave's coaching philosophy is grounded in understanding people first. He listens before offering advice, and he always makes time for those who need guidance. His sessions are proactive and thoughtful, aiming not just to create better cricketers, but better people.
Through his tireless efforts, Dave Neil has become a cornerstone of cricket in the region. His love for the game, and the people who play it, continues to inspire those around him. His impact is lasting, and his example sets a standard for what true community coaching can be.
His influence extends beyond cricket skills. Dave leads by example, playing and coaching with integrity and respect. He models how the game should be played, and this approach influences how his players interact with umpires, coaches, teammates, and opponents alike. His sessions are guided by the idea that cricket is a tool for building character as much as developing ability.
Dave says, “It is a pleasure to be involved in the game as a coach, to see players - especially young players – enjoying training and games and improve their skills.”
“I am very fortunate to work with some great people and families at Orange CYMS Cricket Club, the Orange junior and senior Associations, and the Molong community. Cricket in the Orange and Molong district is in strong position because of the work of lots of people and clubs.”