There are those who play the game, and then there are those who ensure the game can be played. CATS Cricket Club is proud to bestow Life Membership upon a man who has mastered both roles, though it is his tireless work beyond the boundary rope that has truly defined an era for our club, Jason Sumner.

Jason first arrived at the club as a playing member, making his senior debut in the 2007/08 season and quickly bringing his competitive spirit to the pitch. As well as his debut season, Jason has represented the club in seasons 2008/09, 2009/10, 2010/11, 2016/17, 2018/19 and 2019/20, totalling 45 games. With 41 innings under his belt, Jason has scored 551 runs at an average of 15.31, while also contributing behind the stumps on the odd occasion, with 8 catches and 3 stumpings. With the ball, he has claimed the unlucky scalp of one glengarry player (best 1/5) from his 8 over career. Jason was also a member of the 2007/08 B Grade Premiership squad, an early highlight in his time at the club.

However, it wasn’t long before his dedication to the club’s future led him to the committee. Over the years, Jason has become the ultimate “all-rounder” of club administration. He hasn't just filled roles; he has defined them.

Jason’s service record speaks for itself:

Social Committee – 2008/09

General Committee – 2009/10, 2010/11

Treasurer – 2017/18, 2018/19

Vice President – 2019/20, 2020/21, 2021/22, 2022/23

Assistant Treasurer – 2020/21, 2021/22, 2022/23, 2023/24, 2024/25

Secretary – 2023/24, 2024/25, 2025/26

He has also been part of the Groundstaff accross multiple years, including significant contributions in 2022/23 and 2025/26

Whether serving as Vice President, managing the books as Treasurer, or navigating the complexities of the Secretary role, Jason has handled the club’s backbone with meticulous care. His contribution is best described as “everything in between.” From ensuring our regulatory compliance to the thankless hours of behind-the-scenes paperwork, Jason’s fingerprints are on every success we’ve celebrated.

He is the person who makes sure the lights stay on, the insurance is paid, and the governance is airtight—tasks that often go unnoticed until they aren't done. Alongside his hands-on involvement,

Jason and his wife have also generously supported the club through their former business, Valley Plus Conveyancing, proudly sponsoring CATS during the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, yet another example of his ongoing commitment both on and off the field.

It is no coincidence that the most decorated period of on-field success in CATS Cricket Club’s recent history mirrored a period of absolute off-field stability. Jason provided the platform upon which our players could perform without distraction. His diverse efforts were the quiet engine room of our premierships.

Jason, we thank you for your selfless service, your integrity, and your unwavering commitment to CATS. You didn't just join this club; you helped build it into what it is today.

Callignee and Traralgon South Cricket Club

Life Members

Peter Duncan

Jason Sumner

Dale Fleming

Bill Bishop Snr