David Ford: A Cornerstone of the Club and the Community
Manly Warringah District Cricket Club | December 09, 2025
Across a distinguished career spanning from 1984 to 2000, David Ford established himself as one of the club’s most committed, versatile, and influential figures. A proud local junior, Ford rose through the ranks to represent the club in every grade, leaving a legacy defined by leadership, longevity, and service both on and off the field.
As a player, Ford was a model of consistency and determination. Over 16 seasons, he accumulated 5,281 runs at an average of 29.34, including two centuries, 27 half-centuries, and a highest score of 138. His contributions were not confined to one level—Ford regularly excelled across grades and became a respected captain in the lower grades, where his calm authority and deep understanding of the game played a key role in developing younger players.
Ford’s athleticism extended beyond cricket. He was a dual-sport competitor of rare ability, representing the club in First Grade rugby and First Grade cricket, a testament to his physical toughness, competitiveness, and sporting intelligence.
His impact continued well past his playing days. Ford served as a coach at both Manly and Warringah cricket clubs, sharing his knowledge and shaping the next generation of cricketers. He was especially influential at the grassroots level, running school holiday clinics that introduced countless local juniors to the game and fostered a strong cricketing culture within the community.
David Ford’s career is best remembered not simply through statistics, but through the breadth of his contribution—as a player, captain, coach, mentor, and community leader. His long-standing dedication has left an enduring legacy within the club and the wider cricketing community.
