Celebrating the Own-The-Over Awards

The Own-The-Over (OTO) Awards are more than a ceremony, it was a celebration of the players, coaches, volunteers, and clubs who make women’s cricket thrive. This year, WH Cricket once again brought the community together for an inspiring evening of recognition, live streamed across Instagram and supported by TMA. From rising young stars to trailblazing role models, the OTO Awards shine a light on those who dedicate their time, energy, and passion to growing the women’s game.

The awards celebrated excellence across every corner of the sport, recognising outstanding individuals and organisations whose dedication makes cricket inclusive, inspiring, and fun. Among the standout winners were:

Player of the Year (U18) – Olivia Cotton, recognised for her leadership, skill, and remarkable journey playing alongside multiple generations of her family. Runner-up: Bella Tweddle.

Player of the Year (18+) – Jenny Turner, honoured for her outstanding all-round performances with bat, ball, and in the field. Runner-up: Lauren Oliver.

Coach of the Year – Joint winners, Sebastian Connor and Mark Gordon, demonstrating how coaching is about both skill development and building safe, inclusive spaces for women and girls.

Club of the Year – Parkhead Panthers, praised for their inclusivity and community-first approach. Runner-up: St Albans CC.

Spirit of Cricket – Bella Hopcraft, for her positivity and commitment to fair play. Runner-up: Matt from NotOut, recognised for his work creating a mental health-positive space in cricket.

Captain of the Year – Abi Flory, for inspiring leadership. Runner-up: Erica Baxter, celebrated for her tireless contributions on and off the field.

Role Model of the Year – Leona Robinson, for her resilience and trailblazing journey through cricket. Runner-up: Niamh Barrie.

Kit of the Year – Shepherds Bush CC, for creating a kit that combined identity with inclusivity. Runner-up: St Albans CC.

Notable mentions were also given to Rafia Khan, Matt Corton, Phoebe Turner, Jasmine Nichols, Amy Gordon, Mrs Akther Jahan Khan, and Edith Schofield, each of whom has made a meaningful contribution to their clubs and communities.

Beyond the awards, WH Cricket’s membership continues to be a vital part of growing the women’s game. Membership offers access to exclusive discounts across cricket equipment, apparel, and partner brands, as well as coaching resources and structured courses to help players improve their skills. The WHC Coaching Course gives members opportunities to develop as leaders and role models, while the wider membership community connects players, coaches, and volunteers across the UK. Joining not only provides tangible benefits but also helps sustain the sport and support the next generation of players.

TMA is proud to support WH Cricket as their digital partner, powering initiatives like the OTO Awards live stream to ensure fans can engage directly with nominees and celebrate achievements in real time. Our work with WHC goes beyond events, helping manage memberships, deliver educational content, and create scalable fan experiences. From ticketing to learning platforms, our technology ensures clubs remain supported, communities stay connected, and the sport continues to thrive in a sustainable way.

These awards are a true reflection of the collaboration and passion that drives women’s cricket. None of it would be possible without the sponsors who make the OTO Awards a reality: Runs 4 Research (Player of the Year 18+), Lacuna Sports (Player of the Year U18), NotOut (Spirit of Cricket), Rosa Talks Ball (Captain of the Year), IsthatMiddle? (Coach of the Year), Her Game Too (Club of the Year), Mystery Cricket (Role Model of the Year), and Cricket Coffee Co (Kit of the Year). Their support ensures these achievements are celebrated, shared, and amplified throughout the sport.

The Own-The-Over Awards showcase the heart and growth of women’s cricket in the UK. From individual excellence to collective community efforts, they highlight the people driving inclusion, development, and progress. At TMA, we’re proud to play our part in this journey and to help build a cricketing future that is inclusive, inspiring, and sustainable.