In partnership with the ACE Programme, Surrey welcomed a group of pupils and members of staff from St. Andrew’s Primary School, Streatham, for a special Black History Month-themed ground tour of The Kia Oval yesterday.
Led by ACE Director Chevy Green, the tour celebrated the contribution of Black players to the history of The Oval, introducing the youngsters to the likes of Ebony Rainford-Brent, Sophia Dunkley, and Mark Butcher, among several other cricketing personalities, who have graced the field in south London over the years.
The lively and curious group of young people and their teachers strolled around the concourse, learning from Green the connection of many great Black personalities with Surrey and The Oval as well as hearing fascinating cricket-related anecdotes.
The group also got the opportunity to see the West Indies Room up close and discover the stories of several, fabled Windies teams of the past and present before visiting the special Black History exhibition in the Club Museum.
Chevy Green said: “Today was a brilliant day! It was great to see these inquisitive schoolchildren wanting to learn so much about the role of Black players in The Oval’s history and having such a good time.
“Stories have the power to inspire, and celebrating Black role models in cricket is very important. The Black community’s contribution to cricket in this country and county has been immense, and it’s essential that we seek ways of telling their narratives to the younger generations.
“I’m proud to have had the privilege of narrating stories of some of the incredible Black players who have helped in shaping the history of The Oval.”
There will be three more unique opportunities this month – on October 24, 25, and 26 – to join us for this specially curated tour at The Kia Oval. All money raised will go to the ACE Programme charity.
Book your tickets for the next ACE Ground Tour at The Kia Oval
