Col’s Chat – Locals through my Lens – Karen ‘Kaz’ Willis

Col’s Chat –

Locals through my Lens

Karen ‘Kaz’ Willis

There’s a moment in my chat with Kaz Willis when emotions overflow.  

It’s not in any way associated with sadness, but more a sense of fulfilment, a sense of achievement, and a sense that kindness delivers its own very special rewards.  

Kaz is a remarkable woman, and I’m proud to say a friend, but like most journeys, there are forks in the road. But there’s one thing Kaz’s journey has as a constant, and that is the comforting presence of cricket.  

“Cricket was embedded in my life through my granddad. I loved going to Manuka Oval in Canberra to watch the test matches. He would explain the rules, the tactics and the nuances. I was entranced.”  

These days, Kaz’s family is synonymous with Valley District Cricket Club. “My husband Craig plays, my eldest son, Cameron has played since prep and my youngest, Harrison has continued the tradition. Valley District Cricket is, it’s fair to say, a second home to us.” 

In 2011, Kaz took an initial role on the junior management committee and moved through a variety of volunteer roles, including a Level 1 coaching certification. 

At one coaching session about four years ago, an innocuous incident changed Kaz’s life. “There was a mum sitting in the stands, when one of her kids was trying to get into an equipment bag because he wanted to join in. The mum tried to stop him, and said he has autism and would no doubt be disruptive. And I thought, surely, we can do something in this space, where we have more flexibility around what the kids could do if their circumstances were similar.”  

Kaz’s own son, Harrison has Asperger’s, and she felt compelled to do something. The time was now. “Valleys’ Clinton Kempnich (everyone calls him, George) and I came up with some modified skills platforms. We now offer the program for free, which has been a true differentiator for us, and are the only club to be Special Olympics affiliated.” 

Kaz adds, “I want to be in a position to land some funding, and have someone working this full time. This will give it the time and dedication needed to take it to the next level.”  

“I feel cocooned in this feeling of love and support. People say things like, ‘You have literally changed my life…’ These children, who struggle with day-to-day life and anxiety, are besides themselves because they are going to see Kaz and their coach. They leap out of their car and hug someone who they previously didn’t know. That is really special.” 

“Aussie kids go out and play, make mates, and move on. These kids are not provided with the same opportunities. We are there to ensure that those children have the best hour of their week.” 

Do you want to advocate for the future of inclusive cricket? Do you, or someone you know want to shine a light on this amazing program, reach out to Kaz @  k.willis@valleycricket.org.au or visit www.valleycricket.org.au/allabilities  

Author and photographer: Colin Bushell | Colin Bushell Photography