Response to Herald Sun Article 25 October 2025

26 October 2025 

To the Members, Players, Parents and Friends of Moorabbin Cricket Club 

Many of you will have seen the Herald Sun article published on Saturday, 25 October 2025, titled “Century up, but we may be out.” 

Let us set the record straight. Moorabbin Cricket Club is not on the brink of collapse. The suggestion is simply inaccurate. Unfortunately, comments made by our Chairman of Selectors and Committee Member, Scott Pappin, were misrepresented in an article that paints a misleading picture of our club’s true position and direction. In fact, the article was the result of the journalist “cold calling” Scott rather than the club approaching the newspaper. 

 The reality is this: 

• Our on-field strength has never been better. Through deliberate recruitment and player retention, our senior ranks are thriving. Competition for 1st XI selection is strong, creating real depth across our 2nd, 3rd and 4th XI’s. The results from this weekend’s games speak to the progress we’ve made. 
•  Our junior and development programs are being rebuilt with clear purpose. While junior participation across community sport has generally declined since the 1990s, Moorabbin Cricket Club is proactively addressing this through enhanced coaching, strong pathway programs and genuine opportunities for young players to transition into senior cricket. In fact, our junior registrations are up over 30% from last year and we are progressively introducing new teams. 
•  Financially, we are stable and improving. Like all community clubs, we manage costs such as ground hire, insurance, umpiring, and equipment. However, we continue to meet these obligations through sponsorships, affordable player subscriptions, fundraising, bar and merchandise sales, and prudent financial management. The club is not in financial distress. 
• We have reduced reliance on individual funding. In the past, the club has benefited from the support of a generous benefactor who continues to assist in some capacity. However, through careful planning, the committee has successfully diversified revenue and improved the club’s financial independence. We have increased our corporate sponsorship numbers and at the same time greatly improved sponsor recognition and return. 
•  We are investing in our future. Moorabbin Cricket Club is not “hanging on” — we are building with a strong and progressive committee. We have the right committee people, coaches, players and volunteers who are united in strengthening the club’s culture, facilities, player development programs and governance. We are committed to fostering a club that reflects inclusion, respect, enjoyment, and the true Spirit of Cricket. 

 We understand that headlines can sometimes distort the reality, but the facts are simple, Moorabbin Cricket Club is strong, stable, and moving confidently toward its next century. We’ve been here for a 100 years we will be there for a 100 more. 

 To our members, past players, families, sponsors, and supporters, thank you for your ongoing belief and contribution. Your commitment keeps our club thriving. 

If you have any questions about the article or any other aspect of the club, please reach out to any member of the executive or committee. Open communication and community spirit remain at the heart of everything we do. 

Warm regards, 

Russell Embleton

President 

On behalf of: 

Steve Lefebvre  Vice President

David Camilleri Treasurer 

Shay Dickson  Committee Member           Chad Candappa Committee Member 

Scott Pappin   Committee Member & Chairman of Selectors