University opens new children's cricket programme

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 hours of coaching 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.