Danielle Gregory
Bryony Smith
Q&A
WITH
BRYONY SMITH & DANIELLE GREGORY
For this edition of SKQ, we have had the pleasure of spending some time with Bryony Smith and Danielle Gregory; two rising stars in the world of women’s cricket. Both play professionally for the South East Stars and have taken the time to give us a bit of an insight into life as a pro cricketer, how they motivate themselves and provide some useful tips for those interested in a career in cricket.
SKQ: Can you tell us a bit more about what you do?
SKQ: What do you most enjoy about your role?
Bryony: I’m a professional cricketer for the South East Stars. This is my fourth year as a pro cricketer, having spent two years with England and now on my second with the Stars.
Bryony: Getting to play the sport I love with some of my best mates! You can’t beat the feeling of winning when you have witnessed how hard people have worked to get to that point of lifting a trophy.
Danielle: I am also a professional cricketer for the South East Stars. I have been part of the Stars since its establishment in the summer of 2020, with my first two seasons playing on a Paid-to-Play basis. This September I was offered a professional contract, progressing my cricket career in a direction I could have only dreamed of. Alongside this, I am a full-time Masters student, studying Sports Performance Analysis at the University of Chichester. This Postgraduate degree has opened up the opportunity to undergo a year long placement at Surrey County Cricket Club working closely with the Men’s 1st and 2nd XI squads. Furthermore, I am also a coach in the Surrey CCC County Age group girl’s pathway and for the Rikki Clarke Cricket Academy. SKQ issue 10 | 6
Danielle: I am fortunate enough to be involved in women’s cricket during a pivotal time when media exposure of the sport is constantly evolving. As a result, I have a large responsibility to actively inspire the next generation of cricketers, both boys and girls. I enjoy the challenge of developing and learning new skills, testing my abilities and my way of thinking to adapt and overcome the test. Finally, I enjoy showcasing my skills on the pitch, contributing to a South East Stars win and making the team, my family and my friends proud.
