Photo Credit: Cricket NSW
David Gallop AM, widely regarded as one of Australia’s most accomplished and experienced sport administrators, has joined the Cricket NSW Board.
Gallop, a lawyer by trade, who has been the CEO of both the National Rugby League and Football Federation Australia, fills the void left on the Board following the departure of former NSW Premier Mike Baird who will join the Cricket Australia board in March as the nominee from CNSW.
During his time as the boss of the NRL, and then FFA, Gallop enhanced the quality of those sports for clubs, players, fans, and the community, while driving returns for commercial partners and stakeholders.
Whilst his professional career has been highlighted by his stints at the NRL and FFA, Gallop has held a lifelong passion for cricket as a player and fan that was fostered by his dad’s involvement in the sport.
His late father, John, was a player and later President of ACT Cricket for 20 years, David himself played first grade cricket at UNSWCC for over 10 years from 1985-1997, and his son, Tom, currently plays at Easts in the Sydney Premier Cricket competition.
Gallop, who has also held multiple roles within the Australian Sports Commission (now Sport Australia) and had his contribution to Australian sport acknowledged in 2016 with a Member of the Order of Australia gong, said he had plenty to give to cricket in the state.
“I love cricket and I am delighted to join the board of Cricket NSW,” Gallop said.
“My professional career in sport has meant that cricket has taken a back seat for a couple of decades but I am keen to take an active role in the sport that has given me so much joy and so many friendships.
“No doubt some of the challenges will be familiar to me. High performance success for the state’s elite men’s and women’s teams is critical but just as important is the continued support of community cricket. I want young boys and girls to continue to fall in love with the game.
“There are always many mouths to feed and finding the balance is the key.
“Importantly, I am a big believer in the need to recognise volunteerism and I look forward to getting to know, or in some cases, re-connecting with the people at the coal face of the sport.
“My thanks go to the current Board and the delegates for their support in giving me this opportunity to contribute.”
CNSW Chairman John Knox said securing the services of Gallop was a significant move for the organisation.
“I am extremely pleased that David has accepted his appointment to the Cricket NSW Board,” Knox said.
“Having someone of the calibre of David Gallop, with his wealth of CEO experience at leading sporting businesses, is a huge win for cricket in this state.
“I have seen first hand David’s passion for cricket and I have no doubt we will benefit from having him alongside us.
Photo Credit: LinkedIn profile picture of John Knox
“I am looking forward to working with him as we continue to inspire people to play and love cricket.”
