Lions meet their fans

Fans of the bizhub Highveld Lions had a blast when they got to mingle with the franchise’s players at the Season Launch Open Day.

Weather was mild at the Bidvest Wanderers Stadium on 1 September when for a R50 parking fee, families had the chance to tour the stadium, find out about the franchise’s programmes and even meet some players in a casual setting.

All sorts of food and product stalls were set up on the field making it look more like a fair than an international cricket field.

A small field was also set up for children to play on. Many even had their faces painted as they were taken through areas of the stadium they would not normally have access to, such as the security room.

Fans also got to watch on as net sessions were held.

The highlight for many though was seeing Lions players roam around the field, which often led to having photos taken, autographs given and even a conversation or two with their cricketing heroes.

“Today is about us as players spending time with our fans,” said Lions pace bowler, Nono Pongolo.

“It is great for us to launch the season in this manner and we are grateful to the managing team for putting this together.”

Pongolo added that with Jozi Stars coach, Enoch Nkwe, stepping into the coaching role at the Proteas, and Jozi Stars team manager, Jono Leaf-Wright becoming Central Gauteng Lions CEO, there appeared to be a lot going on in the Gauteng cricketing world and it was still important to convey the message that fans’ support for the Lions ‘means the world to us’.

“We lost our coach but there is still plenty of energy in the team and we are excited for the season ahead.”

Related articles:

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/222962/central-gauteng-lions-bizhub-highveld-lions-support-living-autism/

https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/222102/bizhub-highveld-lions-lose-game-action-cricket-team/