The success of the workshop run by the Leinster branch of the ECBCA is another indicator of the rising popularity of cricket in Ireland. Held in King’s Hospital school sports hall last wednesday, the workshop was attended by 28 people ranging from experienced coaches to people with very little experience but involved in providing multi sports to the primary school sector.
Many of the attendees were not from established clubs, many represented new clubs or clubs not currently associated with youth cricket, and all were hungry for information on introducing the game to the next generation.They were not disappointed.
First up was Andrew Leonard who showed the group how to keep aschoolyard of children busy and excited while they learned the basic skills. Along with participation comes competition and Andy showed how to progress the basic skills to a competitive format. Following this Matt Lunson demonstrated several different forms of games which will keep the whole group involved, ranging from the many variations of the Lord’s game to “Stumpy” that perennial favourite which can be played on any patch of ground.
The final game involved a bin as stumps/wicketkeeper, a stump as a bat and a wheely bin as any old hazard in your average backgarden – in other words, you can play cricket ANYWHERE! Many thanks to Andy and Matt for giving their time and enthusiasm to the evening, and to all who participated. The next workshop run by the Leinster CA will be mid season and will be fully advertised on the Cricket Leinster website and on Facebook and Twitter.