University to open new children’s cricket coaching programme

With the beginning of the cricket season only a few months

away the University of Exeter has created an exciting opportunity for young

people to take their first step into the world of cricket.

Working in conjunction with the Devon Cricket Board (DCB) the

University has set up a regular cricket coaching programme aimed at 7-10 year

old children. The scheme will offer high quality cricket coaching to the whole

community and hopes to encourage more children to experience one of the

country's most iconic sports. 

Running every Saturday morning (9-11am) from 19 January – 23

March the sessions will focus on the enjoyment of cricket whilst helping

children to learn and improve fundamental cricketing skills. A wide variety of

teaching games and activities will be used to develop children's coordination,

balance, agility and fitness whilst also encouraging team work, communication

and confidence.

Coach Adam Peters commented "I find it so rewarding to see

children learning new cricket skills and having great fun. I focus my coaching

on promoting enjoyment to foster long-term involvement in this fantastic sport,

whilst ensuring that all children improve their skills. This is an amazing

opportunity for children to come and experience cricket in the Devon Cricket

Centre.

The two hour coaching sessions will cost just £10 per child

(or £100 for all ten weeks), offering an affordable opportunity for children to

experience cricket in one of the best indoor facilities in the South West; the

Sir Christopher Ondaatje Devon Cricket Centre.

The £2million centre was completed in 2009 as a joint

venture between the University and the DCB. It's unique indoor playing space

and indoor practice nets provide an ideal coaching environment for players of

all abilities.

The scheme is supported by the DCB who work to promote and

improve cricket throughout the county. The DCB runs a number of high quality

coaching courses for players of all ages and abilities and offers a number of

pathways for performance cricketers.

DCB Cricket Development Manager Matt Theedom commented "The

DCB supports this excellent initiative to allow children to discover and

progress in the game of cricket."

These dedicated children's sessions will run alongside a

number of other cricketing opportunities throughout the year, including holiday

camps and fun days. Keagh Fry, a mother from Exeter, said "My son was really

nervous about attending a cricket day in August 2012, but came home so

enthusiastic about it he was running around the garden practicing his bowling

technique. He was practicing his bowling at every opportunity for the next

couple of months, excited to have learnt something new. He had such a great day

with the coaches."

If you are interested in enrolling a child onto the

programme please contact the University of Exeter Sports Park on 01392 724452

or coach Adam Peters on 01392 725069.