NSWCCC Blue Award for Excellence in Cricket
Caoimhe Bray is an extraordinary talent and a rising star in cricket, whose remarkable achievements in 2024 have firmly established her as an exceptional athlete. At just 14 years old, Caoimhe has represented the New South Wales Combined Catholic Colleges 19 Years and Under Cricket Team for two consecutive years, leading the team to victory at the New South Wales All Schools Competition. Her impressive performances earned her a spot in the New South Wales All Schools team, where she competed in the New South Wales/Queensland Exchange in Mackay.
Caoimhe’s talent extends to the international stage, where she represented Australia in the U19 Women’s Tri-Series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand in Brisbane. Her standout performance included scoring 84 runs and taking 4/20, showcasing her exceptional all-round abilities. She has also been a key member of the New South Wales Country U16 and U19 teams since the age of 13, and later this year, she will represent the U19 team at the National Championships in Perth.
In addition to her achievements on the field, Caoimhe was awarded the prestigious Cricket New South Wales Foundation Basil Sellers Scholarship, enabling her to train with elite coaches. This opportunity led to her selection for the Sydney Sixers in the inaugural T20 Spring Challenge, where she made an immediate impact. She went on to become the youngest player to sign a Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) contract. On her WBBL debut, Caoimhe made a remarkable impression, taking 1/15 against a top West Indian batter and scoring 12 not out, including the winning runs, in a thrilling finish.
Caoimhe’s contributions to school sport and her community are just as impressive. A natural leader and mentor, she has coached and supported fellow players at the New South Wales Combined Catholic Colleges Girls Schools Cricket Championships, continually encouraging and inspiring her peers. Her infectious energy, sportsmanship, and humility make her an outstanding role model for young female athletes.
Caoimhe’s unparalleled dedication, skill, and character make her a deserving recipient of the New South Wales Combined Catholic Colleges Blue Award for Cricket. She is a true champion, and her future in cricket, as well as in sport more broadly, is undoubtedly bright.