Cricket career comes into full circle
There are several achievements that Robey ranks highly throughout his life.
Mark Robey, past Northerns Sportsperson of the Year in 2007 and cricket coach at Benoni Northerns, started playing cricket at Benoni Northerns at the age of six.
“I played through all the age groups until I started playing senior cricket at the age of 14,” explained Robey.
By 16 he was playing Premier League Cricket and played Provincial Cricket for Easterns in several age groups, culminating in the u-19 Coke Week and later the Easterns Colts and Semi-Pro Team where he played First Class Cricket.
“My dad nurtured my love for cricket from an early age. He was always taking me to watch live games and supporting my development.
“Allan Donald and Dave Richardson are cricketing heroes I admired and Thomas Phekane was a coach who had a great influence on me as well.”
ALSO READ:
Junior cricketers celebrate a rare achievement
When Robey left school he played cricket in the UK and Holland for several clubs.
“I then got a bursary to study and play at NMMU in Port Elizabeth and also joined the Warriors Academy. I was there for six years and then returned to Benoni Northerns.
“I was fortunate enough to enjoy some success at the club where we won the Easterns Premier League on a few occasions and played in the Club Champs, as well as winning a few T20 titles.” said Robey.
Currently he has hung up his boots in terms of serious cricket but is still playing the odd game for Northerns.
“I have made a career of coaching and I am currently the director of cricket at St Benedict’s College. It is amazing to see the professional setups at some schools and this offers great opportunities to young cricketers.” explained Robey.
According to Robey, when being a coach, it is vitally important that you bring passion and enthusiasm to your team.
“This starts with your preparation and carries through into the coaching sessions,” explained Robey.
“I would advise young sportsmen and women to try multiple sports and appreciate the comradery that sport brings. There are so distractions out there for a youngster but as long as you are enjoying playing sport then you are on the right track.”
ALSO READ:
There are several achievements that Robey ranks highly throughout his life.
This includes playing u-19 Coke Week, Club Champs and getting selected for the Warriors Academy.
“A lasting memory is the many lifelong friendships that I have made through the game of cricket throughout my life.” explained Robey.
The world of sports can leave you with some regrets, but Robey has but only one.
“I would have loved to play cricket at a higher provincial or even international level.”, he said.
“Still, I think club cricket offers an opportunity for some cricketers that they otherwise would not have. It can compliment school sports and act as a bridge to further develop your game.
“I am grateful for the sporting opportunities that Benoni Northerns has given me and for my sporting family.”
