Past Newsletters

July 2006

Cricket Newsletter No. 6.1

2006 OFF SEASON SPECIALS EDITION

SRI LANKAN PLAYERS DROP IN ON OLD FRIENDS

Sri Lankan cricketers Michael Van Dort and Jehan Mubarak pictured here with Hamish and Harry made the most of their time in Sydney by making a visit to Kingsgrove Sports Centre, Sydney Premier Cricket Store. Both players were competing for the opening spot alongside Sanath Jayasuriya but are actually clubmates back in Sri Lanka. Hamish and Harry first met the two promising batsman when they toured Sri Lanka with St George District Cricket Club back in 2001. Hamish recalls playing them in the first game, couldn't miss thiese guys because they both seemed 7 ft tall. First ball of the tour was driven straight for four by Van Dort and we knew we were in for a tough day. We ended up losing by 8 wickets but not it's no so painful now knowing they both went on to represent Sri Lanka. In fact Van Dort recently posted his 2nd Test century in the recent series against England. More on these two players can be read at -

HIT PREDICTION MICHAEL VAN DORT

ST GEORGE TOUR OF SRI LANKA

KINGSGROVE SPORTS CENTRE RELEASE OFF SEASON SPECIALS


We are proud to announce the reduction in price of some special 2005-06 items in order to make way for next seasons range due July / August. Here's your chance to pick up quality items of cricket equipment and save big $$$$$$.

To view some of KSC's Awesome SPECIALS RANGE, please see the listing below in this news letter. If you are a local why not even pop on by and grab yourself a bargain. Offers apply for a limited time only.

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CRICKET SPECIALS LIST

To avoid disappointment order ASAP - Offers apply whilst stocks last. Many items have begun to sell out to make way for next seasons range. Overseas orders welcome. Delivery between 3-10 days all over the world. Please note that all the below prices are the Overseas Tax Free prices for customers purchasing via postal order from outside of Australia. Postage is free for all overs over $100.00 within Australia except for all extra bulky items.

Bats

Puma Stealth 5000 Mens SH (Top of the Range Grade 1 Willow – Was $465 – Now $405

All bats include our free knocking in service aside from bats that are aready factory prepared.

Gloves

Slazenger V900 Pro – Was $100 – Now $85

Puma Stealth 5000 – Was $110 – Now - $93

GN Phoenix 750 (Mens, Yth or Boys ) – Was $55 – Now $45

Puma Stealth 3000 – Was $55 – Now $48

Pads

GN Powerbow Superstrike - Was $85 – Now $69

GN Phoenix “Hayden380” – Was $135 – Now $115

Slazenger V900 Pro – Was $140 – Now $119

Slazenger V900 Select Mens – Was $85 – Now $75

Slazenger V900 Select Yths – Was $80 – Now $69

Thigh Pads

Puma Stealth 5000 – Was $40 – Now $34

Kookaburra Beast - $45 – Now $39

You can also order any of these by email by requesting our electronic orderform

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BREAKING NEWS FOR 2006/07

WOODWORM ARE COMING TO KINGSGROVE

The Brand made famous by the likes of “Freddie” Flintoff, Kevin Pietersen, “Murali”, Dwayne Bravo make its debut in Australia and Kingsgrove Sports Centre this coming season. The range looks awesome and is sure to be a hit with those looking to use something new and exciting but also for those who have come to admire the big hitting of Flintoff and Pietersen. The story behind the brand is a nice one. An old bat was brought out of retirement in England for a game. Having spent sometime in the garage the top section of the blade had been eaten away by woodworms. Company Director Joe Sillett applied the now famous repair and alterations that have now made the Woodworm unique design and shape famous. Joe’s son then went out and scored a century and the rest is history.

GREAT NEWS FOR PUMANIACS

It looks like some of Puma’s equipment for this summer is already on its way to Kingsgrove Sports Centre. So unlike other brands you may not have to wait until August, you just might be able to order via the site as soon as Mid July. Stay posted to our website for further details and updates. Pumaniacs are definitely up there with the most passionate brand loyal cricketers so this is definitely great news for them, particularly those eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new Ballistic range which takes over from the Classic range this season.

DOES ANYONE REMEMBER MILLICHAMP & HALL ?

Many people would. It became a very popular brand of bat back in the 90’s before slowly becoming Puma. Well the good news for old faithful is that master bat maker after moving on from Puma has made a very welcome comeback into the bat crafting game with his new brand “Screaming Cat”. These bats are exactly what you would expect from one of the worlds premier craftsman. Some of their bats are already available here. Why not check them out now by following THIS LINK

WHAT'S THE NEW GREEN BAT THAT HAYDEN IS NOW USING ?

This is the new top of the range Gray Nicolls bat, The Fusion. It has a lightweight 100% composite, high grade carbon fibre handle – wow that was a mouthful. Hopefully it will score the great man plenty of runs this summer. Anyway, the idea behind the handle is to reduce flex and weight. This bat should be ready to go in August !

WHAT WORKS FOR CLARKEY COULD WORK FOR YOU

This coming season sees the release of the new Slazenger V389 MC made exactly to the young guns specifications. Perhaps this might be the secret to his and maybe your success this coming summer???

WHAT IS THE DEAL WITH PUNTERS GRAPHITE KOOKABURRA ?

To put it simply, the powers that be banned Ricky Ponting, Mike Hussey, Brett Lee and other First Class players from using the now famous Graphite backed bats. It’s no small wonder either, these bats came off like rockets and were deemed to be just too unfair to cricket balls. The great thing about them from our point of view is that they were definitely stronger with hardly any coming back broken. Now the good news for us mere mortals is that we can continue to be use this bat in any other form of cricket other than International or First Class Level. This bat was the first to sell out last summer but the good news is that it will be back on our shelves by August. Punter will be continuing to use the Kookaburra Icon but without the graphite backing. Mike Hussey will head to the crease this season brandishing the brand new Kookaburra Genesis. (The cost of this bat does not include Phil Collins). The shelf version of this bat too will come with the Graphite Backing.

WHEN CAN WE EXPECT THE NEW KINGSGROVE CRICKET CATALOGUE ?

Probably the most common question I get emailed over July / August. At this stage we are hoping to send out 2nd week of August. For those wishing to save the trees, our range should be uploaded to a brand new Online Store before September if all goes to plan. It appears that the www.kingsgrovesports.com.au will get an overhaul for the better so stay posted to our popular site.

DID YOU HEAR THAT KINGSGROVE ARE OPENING A NEW BRANCH ?

You bet, we are finally taking the Kingsgrove Show to Newcastle. Opening on the 14th of August we look forward to better servicing the North Coast with our unique cricketing know how. Further details will of course appear on our website in due course. Click Here to View the Flyer

WHY BUY A BAT FROM KINGSGROVE SPORTS CENTRE ?

The answer is quite simple. With our buying power we demand the “cream of the crop” from our suppliers. So you aren’t just getting a bat, you are getting willow that is good enough for the greats. Plus with over 30 years experience we know how to pick and take care of bats. If ordering via the net, let us be your hands. We’ll find out all your specs and do a better job of picking one for you. Many of our far away customers prefer and trust us more than themselves when it comes to picking their weapon for the season. Plus as always, you get our FREE Knocking and Preparation service.

SPECIAL CLUB CLOTHING OFFERS FOR CLUBS

We think it’s time your club looked its best ever and we want to get involved and save you money. Please feel free to pass this onto your applicable club representative. Check out exactly what we can do here.

Interesting Cricket Article – Click the link to view. (Kingsgrove Sports gets a mention)

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CALLING ALL SOCCER FANATICS

SUPER SOCCER SPECIAL

CLICK HERE

100’s of Soccer Balls priced to clear – perfect for clubs looking to obtain a bargain for their training balls

CLICK HERE TO VIEW FLYER

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CUSTOMER OF THE WEEK

This is where we quiz our customers from all over the world to discover more of our wonderous game of cricket.

Over the Northern summer we will be searching for some World Wide Candidates, so if you fit the bill contact me. At the moment you will find features from customers who live in places such as - Ireland, different parts of England, Switzerland, Italy, Wales, Isle of White, different parts of Canada and the United States. Three of our last few entrants have all represented their countries – CLICK HERE TO CHECK THEM OUT

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PARTNER SITES ANNOUNCEMENT

http://www.justborn.com.au/ - The perfect site for those expecting little cricketers !

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KSC Sponsored Event



http://www.cricketmasala.com.au – An amazing day combining the cricket talents of some of Sydney’s finest cricketers originally from all over the sub-continent and other parts. The tournament even included the Aboriginal Allstars. To see who won check out the site and stay posted for next seasons tournament. Entertainment including an rousing set by none other than Sri Lankan born star Kamahl and also featured foodstall serving up some of the best spicy delicacies in town. The highlight of the day though remains the powerhitting displays from some very talented cricketers.

At this site you will note that all the wonderful clothing for all the teams were provided by Kingsgrove Sport Centre’s Club Clothing department. We specialize in club cricket clothing be it whites complete with embroidery or one day style coloured clothing. Clubs can contact us now to get an early start on getting this seasons clothing package together at prices that will surely amaze.

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Best Regards,

Hamish Solomons and the staff of K.S.C.

DECEMBER 2005

Cricket Newsletter no. 5.1

2005-06 CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EDITION

To the valued customers and receivers of the KSC Cricket E-Newsletters,

A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES.

ENJOY THE FESTIVITIES AND REMAINDER OF THE CRICKET SEASON.

PLAY IT SAFE AND 'AVE A GOOD ONE.

From Staff and Management at Kingsgrove Sports Centre.

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Avoid the Christmas Shopping Mayhem

Only a short while to go!!!

Shop online at www.kingsgrovesports.com.au

Lets us make Christmas shopping easy for you this December. We have a shop full of Christmas gift ideas which we shall outline within the contents of this E-Newsletter.

FREE FREIGHT WITHIN AUSTRALIA FOR GIFT ITEMS OVER $100 (for all non-bulky items)

To see KSC’s Awesome range, the largest anywhere Click Here for a Net Session promised to please. No Traffic, No Heat, No Screaming Kids, No Crowds, No Parking Ordeals, No time and hassle at all – this we can guarantee!!!

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New & Exciting Gift Ideas for Christmas

SEE FURTHER BELOW FOR CHRISTMAS CUT OFF DATES

Kingsgrove Sports Centre Christmas Vouchers

Cricket Australia Replica Clothing & Caps

Platypus Speed Sensor Ball

Cricket DVD’s and Videos

Aussie Test Replica Shirt – White

Training Balls

Coaching Aids

Cricket at a Glance Poster

Wickets Cricket Card Game

HURRY DON’T MISS OUT – SEE BELOW FOR CHRISTMAS CUT OFF DATES

WITHIN SYDNEY – 20th December 2005

WITHIN NSW – 19th December 2005

WITHIN AUSTRALIA – 18th December 2005

WORLDWIDE – 12th December 2005 (by Australia Post EMS International Courier)

If you miss out on these dates please still contact us, you’ll never know what we might be able to do (Express Post Options)

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EVEN MORE SPECIALS AVAILABLE AT OUR EBAY STORE

We still have some great items available for a potential Bargains on Ebay, especially collectable and rare items. Why not check out what's currently on offer at our
KSC Ebay Store - CLICK HERE TO VIEW

- Feel free to regularly check out some amazing offers that will be happening over the year as we endeavour to list new items every week. Here's a small indication of some of the items ready to sell now -

AUSTRALIAN TEST PLAYERS POSTER - Cheapest Memorabilia starting at just $1.00

BRADMAN MEMORABILIA PLAQUE - Classy ! Ideal for the Bar

AUSTRALIAN SUPERSTAR POSTERS - COMBO of 7 different posters starting at just $1.00

BRADMAN MEMORABILIA MINI BAT – Hugely popular but inexpensive item of memorabilia

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Kingsgrove Cricket Academy

What's new at Kingsgrove Cricket Academy

Half Price Happy Hours We are offering cricketers an ideal opportunity to get extra practise time at half the cost. When - Weekdays between 1.30pm and 3.30 - Excludes Public and School Holidays. Includes - Net Hire and or Machine Hire Cost - Net $14.00 per Hour or Net and Machine Hire $18.00 per Hour - Bookings are essential. Call 9502 4533 or e-mail to book.

January School Holiday Coaching Clinics For all details please go to - http://www.kingsgrovesports.com.au/default.cfm?l1=10&l2=3&l3=0&l4=0&l5=0

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Over 40 and can't get enough of Playing Cricket ?

Love to Travel ? Want to hang out with some cricket legends including the Great Doug Walters ?

GOLDEN OLDIES TOURNAMENT - HARRY SOLOMONS

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NEW www.kingsgrovesports.com.au site features -

CUSTOMER OF THE WEEK -

This is where we quiz our customers from all over the world to discover more of our wondrous game of cricket.

Over the summer we will be searching for some Aussie Candidates, so if you fit the bill contact me. At the moment you will find features from customers who live in places such as - Ireland, different parts of England, Switzerland, Italy, Wales, Isle of White, different parts of Canada and the United States. This week we venture to the virtually uncharted cricketing shores of Japan. Want to know more, you’ll be surprised ? Check it out.

ALSO FOR YOU PEOPLE INVOLVED WITH WINTER SPORTS CLUBS - THIS MIGHT BE OF INTEREST

Click to view offer on Soccer / Football / Hockey Clothing Packages

KSC CRICKET CLUB DIRECTORY

You just might want to add your club or check out some great cricket club websites

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We would like to take this opportunity to wish you for a Merry Christmas and a Safe and successful new year full of runs and wickets.

Yours in Cricket,

Hamish Solomons and the staff of K.S.C.

SEPTEMBER UPDATE

Well I hope everyone is shaping up for a big summer inspired by what has to have been the most interesting Ashes series in what seems like decades. With one Test to go everything is at stake. Can the English do it ? Thank you to all my English customers who have been reminding me of the results in recent times. I hate to say it, but they have outplayed the Aussies but perhaps we have something special lined up for the final Test. Time will tell.

2005-06 Online Store Update - Unfortunately things have gone a bit pear shaped this season. We've had to change developers and then suffered some frustrating technical problems. At this stage we are hoping to have the site up around Mid September but it may be longer. We are very sorry about any inconvenience. If you need to make an order please feel free to call our toll free Mail Order number - 1300 552 999
Also feel free to purchase from the 04-05 site to obtain last seasons bargains. If an item is sold out you will be contacted by our mail order dept. with applicable alternatives. Some prices may have changed in which case you will also be notified.
For my personal customers I personally will be on leave and will return back to work around the 23rd Sept.

Most of the new range is in store now, however a few items like the Ricky Ponting famous Kahuna Icon are due Mid Sept.

By now most of you have received our new catalogue, certainly the thickest ever. The feedback from our customers has been very positive.

We also celebrate the opening of a new outlet in Penrith to better service our very important customers From the Blue Mountain to Dubbo and beyond, such a strong nursery for NSW cricket. The address is -
Shop 3 & 4 / 51 York Road, Penrith 2750.

Kingsgrove Sports Centre are also looking to form an Over 40's team for the next Golden Oldies Tournament. For more info. please check the applicable links on the homepage or email harry@kingsgrovesports.com.au Time to get your dad to come out of retirement !
Does Dad Want to Join the KSC Cricket Team ? Click to view info

That's pretty much for now but you'll be hearing much more from me in October. Good cricket to ya !
Hamish Solomons

July Newsletter

ASHES LEGENDS DROPS IN BEFORE SCOOTING OFF TO LORDS

One of the last surviving members of Bradmans 1948 "Invincibles" Sam Loxton dropped in to see his friends at Kingsgrove Sports Centre before heading off for a re-union at the home of cricket, Lords. As always Mr Loxton lit the shop up with his glowing presence and sharp wit. Now aged 84, Sam Loxton played 12 tests for Australia including a highest score of 103. He also played 140 First Class matches scoring 6249 runs with a career best of 232 not out.

Mr Loxton was looking forward to getting back to Lords after many years but was not looking forward to the tedious flight over. Whilst at Kingsgrove he took the opportunity to check out a few bats and also happily signed a few autographs for staff and customers. Mr Loxton, particularly enjoyed re-visiting the museum where various items brought back many fond memories as he recalled some great stories to those whom were present.

What a great experience to have spent some time with a cricketing legend who has played with some of the games greats such as Sir Donald Bradman, Keith Miller and Arthur Morris.

Ashes Legend Sam Loxton flanked by Hamish and Harry Solomons at our Kingsgrove Store.

KINGSGROVE SPORTS CENTRE ASHES SUPER SPECIALS

Shop online at

www.kingsgrovesports.com.au

We are happy to celebrate what could only be described as a thrilling English Summer of cricket to come with a super special on most current items in our 2004-05 range. We are offering you the opportunity to score 20% off on almost all items still available from our current online range. This will include all BATS, PADS, GLOVES, WK GEAR, BAGS and most ACCESSORIES. Offer excludes Balls, Memorabilia, Club Kits, Club Clothing and items already placed on special.

Please feel free to request a quote on equipment by emailing hamish@kingsgrovesports.com.au or order directly from our site. Please note, prices have not been reduced on our online store except for items already marked as special. However, your discount will be included when your order is ready to be shipped. That’s 20% off our floor prices. What a great opportunity to stock up or update that old smelly equipment for the coming season and not lose and arm and a leg in the process

This offer will extend until the Final day of the First “ASHES” Test Match on the 25th of July 2005.

To view some of bats, pads and gloves already marked on special, please see the listing below in this newsletter.

This will be your last chance to grab an off-season bargain with the 2005-06 online store complete with new ranges set to go live before September. Stay posted for further updates.

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CRICKET SPECIALS LIST

To avoid disappointment order ASAP - Offers apply whilst stocks last. Many items have begun to sell out to make way for next seasons range expected August. Overseas orders welcome. Delivery between 3-10 days all over the world. Please note that all the below prices are the Overseas Tax Free prices for customers purchasing via postal order from outside of Australia.

To view these list of special please go to -

CRICKET SPECIALS PAGE - CLICK HERE TO VIEW PAGE

Just a few examples of our specials include the following -

Bats -

Kookaburra Kahuna Captain Plus - Was $525 - Now $455

Slazenger V8 Select - Was $320 - Now $256

Puma Octane High Performance - Was $495 - Now $400

Puma Signature 4000 - Was $280 - Now $214

G & M. Maestro Control 909 - Was $325 - Now $266

Kookaburra Supreme Belta - Small Mens Was $190.00 - Now $152 Harrow / Sz 6 Was $175.00 - Now $139

All bats include our free knocking in service aside from bats that are laready factory prepared.

Gloves

Kookaburra Kahuna Captain Mens - Was $125 - Now $103

Kookaburra Diablo Jaffer Mens, Yths & Boys - Was $50 - Now $36

Gray Nicolls Gladius 1000 Mens & Yths - Was $70 - Now $54

Sommers XXX Factor Mens - Was $85 - Now $67

Sommers XX Factor Mens - Was $60 - Now $45

(both not in site)

Pads

Gray Nicolls Gladius 500 - Mens Was $48 - Now $36 Youths Was $44 - Now $31 Youths Was $40 - Now $27

Sommers XX Factor Mens - Was $85.00 - Now $67.00 (Not in website)

You can also order any of these by email by requesting our electronic orderform

More items to be put on special over the off season such as cricket video's and equipment etc

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EVEN MORE SPECIALS AVAILABLE AT OUR EBAY STORE

We still have some great items available for a potential Bargains on Ebay, especially collectable and rare items as well as some our of cricket items going at great prizes plus Aussie clothing, Videos and DVD etc. Why not check out what's currently on offer at our
KSC Ebay Store - CLICK HERE TO VIEW

- Feel free to regularly check out some amazing offers that will be happening over the year as we endeavour to list new items every week. Here's a small indication of some of the items ready to sell now -

PUMA AG SIGNATURE BAT – The cheapest English Willow bat you will find

PUMA GILCHRIST BAT - Another Bargain bat on special.

PUMA MIRAGE BAT - Exclusive to KSC at a great price.

BRADMAN MEMORABILIA PLAQUE - Classy for the Bar

AUSTRALIAN REPLICA O.D.I. SHIRTS Size 14 – Great Gift item for the young cricket fanatic

AUSTRALIAN REPLICA O.D.I. SHIRTS Size Small or XXL

AUSTRALIAN CRICKET / VB T-SHIRTS - For those that love their beer and cricket

AUSTRALIAN TEAM TRAINING TSHIRT Size Med – Amazing bargains on Licensed Fila Aussie clothing

CRICKET AUSTRALIA POLO SHIRT Size Small, Med or Lge

CRICKET AUSTRALIA POLO SHIRT Size XL or XXL – With VB Sponsors Logo

FILA AUSTRALIAN REPLICA TEST CRICKET SHIRTS – Almost Sold out, NEVER TO BE AVAILABLE AGAIN !

BRADMAN MEMORABILIA MINI BAT

Plus much more !!!!

Great gift options for those hard to buy for cricket tragics !

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CALLING ALL SOCCER FANATICS

To view the Kingsgrove Sports Centre Soccer Range

CLICK HERE

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www.kingsgrovesports.com.au site feature -

CUSTOMER OF THE WEEK

This is where we quiz our customers from all over the world to discover more of our wondrous game of cricket.

Over the Northern summer we will be searching for some World Wide Candidates, so if you fit the bill contact me. At the moment you will find features from customers who live in places such as - Ireland, different parts of England, Switzerland, Italy, Wales, Isle of White, different parts of Canada and the United States. This weeks Customer of the week is none other than former South African Test Legend, DARYLL CULLINAN. Read about it HERE.

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Over 40 and can't get enough of Playing Cricket ? Love to Travel ?

GOLDEN OLDIES ANNOUNCEMENT - HARRY SOLOMONS

Download the Latest Golden Oldies Flyer Here

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LATEST KINGSGROVE SPORTS CENTRE NEWS –

2005 – 06 Range available in August

We are expecting to have most of the new seasons range available on the floor by August. Following closely will be the launch of this range on our online store. Our online and email customers will be notified in our next newsletter when this new site is launched. Over the Ashes Series you will notice many new styles of equipment which is what you can expect to find in our new range. This includes Ricky Ponting controversial Kahuna (insert links) as well as the new GN Predator, the new weapon used by Andrew Symonds.

Feature Website – http://www.michaelclarke.com.au/

Why not check out the official Michael Clarke website, Australia latest cricketing sensation and former employee of Kingsgrove Sports Centre. In fact there’s a chance he may have even wrapped your mail order a few years back !

Find a Club Directory – CRICKET CLUB DIRECTORY

A new and helpful feature of the KSC site. Helps provide website information on clubs worldwide, sorted by area in order to help players find a club to play for. To have your club listed please email us.

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Best Regards,

Hamish Solomons and the staff of K.S.C.