Vernon Township Moves Forward with Cricket Pitch Project
Expanding upon a number of recreational opportunities already offered by Vernon Township, construction of a new youth cricket pitch is set to begin in late spring - with a goal to be open for play by mid-summer. The new field will be located adjacent to the Vernon Township Administrative Building at 3050 N. Main Street in Buffalo Grove. The project was approved by the Buffalo Grove Village Board at its April 17 meeting.
Cricket is a bat-and-ball game played between two teams of eleven players in the traditional game. In the center of the field is a 22-yard pitch (a central strip) with wickets at each end that have three stumps (stakes) based in the ground that are spaced so the ball used in the game can't pass between them.
Construction of the new cricket pitch will include a concrete pad that will be covered with thick artificial turf. The field's orientation will be designed so that use of the current baseball and softball fields on the property will continue. To accommodate the new field, the raised mound on the baseball field at the southwest corner will be removed.
The project was initiated by Vernon Township Supervisor Jonathan Altenberg, who says the new field addresses growing requests from township residents.
"There has been a tremendous demand for high quality cricket facilities in Vernon Township; residents have been asking us to build this pitch for some time, and we thank the Village of Buffalo Grove for supporting us in our efforts," Altenberg said.
The game of cricket is believed to have originated in the early 1600s in England. It has grown in popularity over the years, and as of late, is becoming more of a mainstream activity in the Chicago area.
"Over the last decade, there have been many cultural changes in Buffalo Grove, and this includes many individuals who desire to have a place to play cricket," said village Trustee Andy Stein. "This addition to our recreational offerings will serve our community well."
In addition to the new cricket pitch, Vernon Township manages several other areas where residents can enjoy recreation. These include the Aquatic Center in Vernon Hills, Peterson Park and a Picnic Shelter in Lincolnshire and Pekara Park in Deerfield, as well as the baseball and softball fields located next to the future cricket pitch.
"The village is very excited that the township is taking lead on this project, in order to help meet the needs and desires of so many of our residents," said Eric Smith, village President-Elect of Buffalo Grove.