23/01/2013
And so here we are, at the end of my time in Zimbabwe. At the end of my last blog I mused that this may have been the best time of my life. At the time I didn’t have certain information, I didn’t know how the next month was going to pan out. I can tell you know that I don’t think this has been the best two months of my life; I know it…
The weeks following the last blog have been filled with activity. Starting this stretch was the umpiring and scoring course, something which I thought was fairly straightforward. Of course little in cricket is straightforward. It was an intense examination of the laws of cricket and the infinite decisions, problems and processes that an umpire and scorer will face. This course was delivered by an exceptional umpire with years of experience, backed by excellent humour. The upshot of the whole thing is, I’m now a qualified umpire and scorer. How cool is that… Thanks Stanley…
The week after was less cricket focussed. As part of the Gap year Vol program one can undertake a First Aid course. Given the opportunity who would turn it down. Again, delivered by highly competent individuals who teach with a great sense of humour I came out of the experience feeling fulfilled at now being a qualified First Aider. Unlike coaching and umpiring though, I hope I never have to use this one but it certainly was great to have done it.
And now we get to the big one… Victoria Falls. Again, no cricket but wow, what an experience. Seeing one of the seven natural wonders of the world will stick with me for as long as I draw breathe. It was simply awesome, and a little terrifying, I didn’t jump off the bridge like many had said I should but just watching those who did was enough. The whole experience was worth the few hours in the car, which took us through some of the most rugged and beautiful scenery I have ever witnessed. To be honest, I’m still recovering from that trip!!
After a few days rest we finally had a Rhino’s home game. As it was my last week I took the opportunity to do a bit of scoring (yup, I scored in a first class game) and watching. Although, as one builds up a rapport with the players and coaches it’s difficult to focus on the game at hand as you just end up talking cricket to these guys. Of all the things I have done here, I think the one that I will take as being the most important is the chance to talk cricket to the guys who do or did it for a living. Watching and listening and TV is one thing, but being able to have a conversation with Grant Flower or Heath Streak is something that holds much more value. Vic Falls was impressive but that Four Day game was more important. Who would have thought that two months ago, after everything I did just talking would be the most beneficial thing.
And so here we are, time done, spent and lost. The most incredible (and tiring!) two months of my life. I can already here certain questions forming in some people’s minds; was it worth it? You betcha! Would you do it again? Already planning it! Would you recommend it? Only if you want to have the time of your life, make incredible friends, live it up and go home feeling fulfilled, loved and welcomed. Those Kwekwe people ain’t half bad!
Best 2 months of your life? Just give it a go, you’ll see for yourself!
If you’d like any more info or to discuss my experiences then get in contact [email protected] +447963102812
