Robbie Kerr will join the dedicated Wellington team on June 1 and takes up the role of High Performance Manager.
Kerr is no stranger to high performance in sport. He is a double international, representing New Zealand at both indoor cricket and table tennis. He’s also been involved in the sports industry for nearly 20 years, including founding the New Zealand branches of Kelly Sports
Kerr has also been heavily involved with Cricket Wellington over the years. He played 52 one-day matches for the Firebirds during the 1990s.
The right- hand batsman also successfully captained both the New Zealand indoor cricket team and the Wellington University senior cricket team.
He’s been a coach as well, including the NZ indoor side, the Wellington Blaze, the New Zealand A Women’s cricket team and most recently the Wellington College first 11 where four of his players were picked for the Under 19s.
“It’s a privilege to be involved at Cricket Wellington,” Kerr said. ”I’m passionate about cricket and Wellington, so it’s great to be able to get involved and try to help make a difference.”
His goal while at Cricket Wellington is to contribute in a positive way. “I’ll be dealing with age group teams from under 15s all the way up to the Firebirds and Blaze. I hope to help develop programmes and work in closely with coaches and give teams and individuals the best chance of success.”
Cricket Wellington CEO Gavin Larsen said Kerr will be a huge asset for the Major Association. “Robbie is a great acquisition and his breadth and depth of cricketing knowledge will be invaluable as we look to take the High Performance game in Wellington to another level,” Larsen said. “He is a passionate born and bred Wellingtonian and I know he will make a significant and positive impact on elite cricket in our region.”
Quick questions with Kerr
Do you come from a cricketing family?
Yes. I’ve been playing since I was five and my dad was very keen on it. My wife Jo’s father (Bruce Murray) opened for the New Zealand cricket team and my two daughters Jess and Amelia both play.
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Motivated, passionate and organised.
What’s your secret talent?
Playing table tennis - anyone up for a game!
Best Firebirds memory?
I think my debut game was my best memory probably because I was a surprise selection and we played on New Years Eve. I got a reasonable score of 30 odd not out, which helped me get another game, and then we had an enjoyable night out. We played against Canterbury down there. It was a very strong Canterbury side.
Who are the players you admire the most?
Two come to mind. Firstly Roger Twose. He’s a good friend and I’ve learnt a lot from him both in cricket and business. The other is Maia Lewis. She was the captain when I coached the women’s side and she was an outstanding captain and person.
Who was the bowler you dreaded facing?
Scott Styris. I played a lot of indoor with Scotty. He’s a great player but I didn’t like getting out to him!
