CricConnect Volunteer Recognition Series. Mark Norris - Western Suburbs District Cricket Club
Western Suburbs District Cricket Club Sydney | March 12, 2026
Few people have been around Western Suburbs District Cricket Club for as long as Mark Norris. His connection with the club stretches back more than six decades, built on a lifetime of loyalty to the black and white.
Mark first watched Western Suburbs play at Pratten Park in 1964. Bob Simpson was batting that day, and it was the moment that sparked a lifelong connection with the club.
School and other activities in the area meant Western Suburbs quickly became his club, and from that first afternoon watching the Magpies play, Mark has remained a familiar and valued presence around Pratten Park.
Over the years Mark has become one of those volunteers every club relies on. His role has never been about titles or positions. Instead, it has simply been about doing whatever needs to be done to keep the club running.
That might mean helping in the canteen, working the barbecue, organising lunches and drinks, setting up sponsorship banners and sightscreens or assisting wherever an extra pair of hands is needed.
There is only one job he refuses.
Scoring.
Mark laughs that he will help with anything around the club, but scoring is the one role he happily leaves to someone else.
Across decades at Western Suburbs, Mark has witnessed many memorable moments. One that stands out came on Australia Day in 2011 when both the Western Suburbs Green Shield side and the First-Grade team played in their T20 grand finals on the same day. Unfortunately, both sides fell short, but it remains a unique and memorable occasion in the club’s history.
More recently he was there to see the First-Grade team claim the T20 competition in the 2025–26 season, another special moment for the Magpies.
When asked about his favourite Western Suburbs player, Mark’s answer is simple.
Michael Clarke.
Mark remembers seeing Clarke as a young boy on the hill at Pratten Park while his father was playing. Over the years he watched Clarke grow from that toddler on the sideline into one of Australia’s greatest cricketers and eventually captain of Australia. Mark is pleased to see Clarke is still connected to the club that helped shape his early cricket journey.
For Mark, Western Suburbs means far more than just cricket.
“I’ve watched Western Suburbs Magpies play cricket, rugby league, rugby union, Aussie rules and soccer when West’s soccer existed,” he says.
Along the way he has built lifelong friendships and countless memories around the club.
“I’ve been black and white all my life.”
Words from Western Suburbs District Cricket Club
Michael Swan – President
Mark is an essential part of our club. For a long period of time, he has been a great supporter to our club but more importantly a great contributor. He is a constant at Pratten Park undertaking many roles that make it possible for the team to concentrate on cricket. He is well respected and appreciated by many generations that have played their cricket at Wests.
Rick Wayde – Vice President
Mark is the main man. In an era where volunteers seem to be disappearing, Mark is there every play day, ensuring everything is set up and works.
CricConnect Volunteer Recognition Series proudly supported by Pink Finance
Volunteer Recognition
Community cricket is built by people who give their time, energy and care to their clubs.
CricConnect’s Volunteer Recognition Series shines a light on the individuals who help make the game what it is.
If you know someone at your club whose contribution deserves recognition, we’d love to hear their story.
Nominate a volunteer at paul@cricconnect.com
Because cricket is built by many, and every contribution matters.
