William (Bill) Howell 3rd XI Medal

"The champion player of Mitcham’s 3rd XI is awarded the Bill Howell Medal. Bill Howell and his family have been closely associated with Mitcham Cricket Club for over 4 decades since Kevin, the eldest son of Bill and his wife Merle, joined the Under 12’s and Bill became the team coach. Bill also began playing senior cricket for the club which he did until 1985/86 totaling 130 games including 2 in the 1st XI and nearly 2500 runs with a top score of 92. He also played in the first season of veterans cricket at Mitcham and made a comeback to play a few games in the 6ths when aged 62. Along the way he played alongside all his sons kevin, John and Reg including the 85/86 3rds premiership team with Reg. All the Howell boys played in Mitcham’s 1st XI with Kevin inducted as a member of the Hall of Fame and awarded Life Membership.

Bill’s enormous contribution to Mitcham cricket Club included serving as President for 2 years, Vice President, Treasurer for 5 years and Chairman of Selectors in the McIntosh premiership season of 1997/98. he was also a junior coach for many seasons coaching all of his sons a capturing 2 premierships. He was awarded Life Membership in 1986. After retiring from playing Bill became an umpire for over a decade in BHRDCA and sub district ranks.

The champion player of Mitcham’s 3rd XI had previously been presented in the 50’s and 60’s until lapsing and then being re-introduced in 2008/09 when named in Bills honour. Brad Lavelle was the first recipient with Matt Kilbane a 4 time winner. Bill will be sadly missed around the club after passing away in 2021.

— Steve Tully (MCC Historian)