The Geelong cricket community is mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures, Jan Nowicki, who passed away peacefully last week at the age of 86.
Nowicki's remarkable contribution to cricket administration spanned over four decades, during which he played a pivotal role in transforming the sport's landscape in the Geelong region and beyond.
Pioneering Women's Cricket Development
Jan Nowicki's most significant legacy lies in his groundbreaking work advancing women's cricket. As a visionary administrator, he recognized the potential of women's cricket long before it gained mainstream attention.
He served as president of the Geelong Cricket Association from 1984 to 1991, a period marked by substantial growth and development in local cricket. His leadership extended to the Victorian Country Cricket League, where he held the presidential role from 1990 to 1992.
Nowicki's commitment to gender equality in sports was demonstrated through his instrumental role in establishing the first-ever women's cricket competition in Geelong. This pioneering initiative created pathways for female cricketers that previously didn't exist at the local level.
A Life of Service and Recognition
Born in 1938, Jan Nowicki's connection to Geelong cricket began long before his administrative career. His dedication to the sport was recognized with one of cricket's highest honors when he was awarded Life Membership of Cricket Victoria in 2003.
Beyond his official roles, Nowicki was known throughout the community as a mentor and advocate for cricketers of all ages and abilities. His approach combined traditional cricket values with progressive thinking about how the game should evolve.
Colleagues remember him as a strategic thinker who always prioritized the development of players and the betterment of the game above personal recognition.
Lasting Impact on Geelong's Sporting Culture
The structures and programs Jan Nowicki helped establish continue to shape Geelong's cricket community today. His work laid the foundation for the current women's cricket programs that have produced state and national level players.
Local cricket clubs across the Geelong region are reflecting on how Nowicki's vision and dedication helped build the robust cricket infrastructure that exists today. His influence extended beyond administrative boundaries, touching the lives of countless players, coaches, and volunteers.
Nowicki's passing marks the end of an era for Geelong cricket, but his legacy continues through the thriving cricket community he helped cultivate. The systems he implemented for developing young talent and supporting women's cricket remain integral to the region's sporting identity.
Tributes have been flowing from across Australian cricket circles, with many highlighting how Nowicki's quiet determination and strategic insight created lasting change in the sport. His contribution serves as an enduring reminder of how dedicated individuals can transform community sports.
