WCC LEGEND
JOHN NIPPRESS
In our 75th year, the management committee proudly inducted John Nippress as the Wayback Cricket Club's first LEGEND. John’s unwavering commitment and passion for the club have spanned nearly 42 years.
His playing career is distinguished by ten consecutive premierships as B Grade Captain — a record unmatched in the Port Lincoln Cricket Association. His exceptional administrative skills and meticulous attention to detail have greatly contributed to the club’s growth during his 35-year tenure as a committee member, including six years as President. Awarded Life Membership in 1986, John’s continuous dedication has earned him this honor multiple times over.
John "Nippo" Nippress arrived in Port Lincoln in March 1976, beginning his playing career in the 1976/77 season alongside the revival of the PLCA B Grade competition. Over 13 seasons, he played 234 B Grade matches, capturing a remarkable 366 wickets at an average of less than 13, and scoring 1,477 agricultural runs at a brisk rate.​
His remarkable achievements include a best bowling performance of 7/37 and numerous club bowling trophies.
Nippo’s leadership as B Grade Captain, spanning eleven seasons and ten consecutive premierships, highlighted his strategic insight and exceptional leadership. John’s administrative impact is equally noteworthy. His roles have included Secretary for 11 seasons, Treasurer for 20 seasons, Vice President for 3 seasons, and President for 6 seasons. His involvement in the Wayback Wisden publication, including the 75th-year edition, demonstrates his dedication. John also spearheaded the upgrade of our cricket nets, with the “John Nippress Bar” named in his honor. His meticulous work on the club’s statistical history is reflected in the comprehensive records available on our website.To this day, John significantly contributes to fundraising efforts, often surpassing other members combined in ticket sales, and is still instrumental in securing and maintaining sponsorships. His proactive approach in recruiting new players, including recent English recruits, has been invaluable.
In recent years, John has continued to support the club by maintaining the nets and surrounding areas, attending almost all working bees and social events, and serving refreshments at the bar on Thursday nights. His extensive commitment to the Port Lincoln Cricket Association includes various roles, such as Treasurer, Statistician, Publicity Officer, and President. John’s extensive contributions were recognized with Port Lincoln Cricket Association Life Membership in March 1989.
The WCC B Grade MVP trophy was renamed the John Nippress Medal in 2009, and he received a SACA Volunteer Medal in March 2011 for over 25 years of service.
Even after more than 40 years, John remains a vital member of the club, actively participating at training, on game-days and at social functions. His role as a member of the Life Members Selection Committee and selector for the Team of Champions further underscores his enduring influence. Thank you Nippo, for everything.​