Howzat for progress?

 

Following several seasons of decay, the club found itself in a bit of a mess and was in serious danger of sliding into the abyss.

 

It simply couldn’t happen and a small group of club stalwarts pulled together an ambitious plan to engage with the town and pull the club back into the heart of the community.

 

The results started to show very quickly. On the pitch, the first team had a decent showing in the Shropshire League’s Division One, the second team won their league and the third XI played a key role in giving young players exposure to senior cricket. Those youngsters then used that experience to win the Shropshire U15 cup.

 

The club has definitely gained a second wind and the momentum has contuned throughout the winter, with fundraisers bringing the community back to the club and money raised has been invested wisely.

 

“We invested in the education of two further ECB Level 1 and Level 2 Coaches and coaching equipment to enable youth coaching for boys and girls during 2012 and beyond,” said club spokesperson Dave Jones.

 

“We also invested in a mobile net to enable 'on the pitch' net practice during the season which is crucial for the teams.

 

“The club continues to work hard to raise more money to invest in new facilities and equipment to ensure club development and we intend to make some further exciting announcements soon!”

 

The club is working with Cricket Wales and will visit local primary schools over the coming weeks to further promote the game to both boys and girls.

 

“We will be encouraging all ages and abilities to come along and have some fun and at the same time help develop them as cricketers and young people,” added Jones.

 

“The youngsters we will be working with are the future of the club and we recognise we cannot underestimate the importance of this. We hope to start up new teams this summer for boys and girls. Coaching begins on May 14 and each Monday thereafter into August. Parents and their children are encouraged also to attend the Registration Evening on either Monday 7th or Wednesday 9th May at the club.”

 

The Club has also been working hard to obtain Clubmark accreditation from English and Wales Cricket Board and will be assessed by Cricket Wales during the summer.

 

Clubmark is awarded once a cricket club demonstrate that they run effectively, safeguarding children, providing effective coaching and giving the opportunity to all to play cricket.

 

“Through effective implementation of new policies, structures and planned coaching the club will build further on its strong foundations,” said Jones.