Toowoomba-born Jodie Fields was the first Queenslander to captain the Australian Women’s Cricket team. She led her side to successive World Cup and T20 World Cup wins in 2012 and 2013. In terms of sporting statistics and achievements, Jodie remains one of Australia’s greatest cricket captains.
Now retired, Jodie continues her close association with the game she loves. But she’s also building a new career in business and dealing with different challenges that test her resilience and determination. Jodie attributes her success to hard work, determination and resilience, as well as the support of key people in her life. When Jodie was in primary school and wishing she could be out playing cricket with the boys, it was her Grade 3 teacher who encouraged her to join in. It was one of those “sliding door” moments that can change the future.
Jodie played cricket with the boys for many years, until an opportunity to play in a women’s competition finally opened up in Brisbane. It was here she met another key supporter who would have a major impact on her career. As Jodie was travelling from Toowoomba to training near Brisbane, her family drove her to Gatton where her coach met them to take her the rest of the way. “Cricket has provided me with many opportunities through education, sport, leadership and friendship,” Jodie said. “Sport has been a big part in my life and encouraged my confidence and self-esteem.”
At the recent 2019/20 launch of the scholarship, Jodie paid tribute to her family and close supporters who have helped along the way. “If I can help a young girl with their education and their development as a player, then I feel that’s a positive step forward for women’s cricket,” she said. Jodie’s contribution to women’s cricket is playing out around the country as more girls and women are taking up the sport than ever before, and the playing field is finally being equalled.
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