As can be seen from the response in recent weeks to the possibility of over 50s cricket, there is an appetite for different forms of cricket within Leinster.
Another area that may be worth looking at is the stage where youth players get their first taste of adult cricket, having left the ranks of the U13s behind. Eddie Lewis , through his research has provided worrying stats on the fall off in participation levels once youth players hit this crucial stage.
If it was possible to keep a higher proportion involved at this critical stage; to integrate them properly into the open competition teams over a couple of years, it should be possible to come up with a more targeted structure that would help achieve the goal of keepin gyouth players involved.
One suggestion is that clubs with a youth section consider entering a team in a development league. The teams in the league would be made up of a minimum number of youth players, say 5/6 and the emphasis would be on 13/14 year olds. Adults participating would ideally be seen as part educators and provide an environment where youth players maximise their potential in a competitive environment.
This league/s could be placed in the existing league structure at say, Div 12 to establish an appropriate standard, starring structures could be maintained but there would be no promotion or relegation. Teams relegated from Div 11 would drop down to Div 13 and teams promoted from Div 13 would go to Div 11. Clubs willing to participate could meet to decide initial league rules ie overs, limits on bowlers, retirement of batsmen etc.
Cuuld this work? Would this give a better grounding to youth players who are still developing thier skills? If your club is interested in considering the above or has alternative suggestions please get in touch with Guy Satchwell at guysatchwell@hotmail.com or leave a comment below