THERE was no play possible last weekend in any of the Tynemouth Cricket Club's fixtures.
However, with the Ashes series now well under way and attracting much publicity, Tynemouth Cricket Club’s work under the Chance to Shine scheme has again been well received.
Six local primary schools – King Edwards, Preston Grange, Whitehouse, Cullercoats, Spring Gardens and Christchurch – have received 13 weeks’ curriculum coaching and after-school clubs under the expert guidance of coaches Stephen Davison and Nick Goldsmith, supported by Club development manager Di Brown.
The schools also entered 20 teams in the club’s Kwik Cricket Festival as well as playing in the Inter-School League based at the club’s Preston Avenue ground.
Hundreds of youngsters have had their first opportunity of playing competitive matches. One feature of this year’s visits particularly well received was the MCC Spirit of Cricket lessons aimed at teaching youngsters empathy and sportsmanship through cricket.
Tynemouth chairman Russell Perry said: “The results have been impressive with clear signs of improved behaviour and team-work, important social skills that sport brings to youngsters.
“The feedback we have had from the teachers has been particularly appreciative in this area.
“This is the fourth year of the Chance to Shine scheme and interest continues to grow.
“We are seeing more and more children playing the game with the club’s junior section vibrant.
“The club continue to train new coaches to assist and the first Teacher Training Evening went very well.
“The club will be running a further teacher training afternoon on September 30 free to local teachers.
“Our aim is to provide teachers with resources and the confidence to run cricket lessons in primary schools and is aimed at those teachers who have never played the game.
“It is designed to promote maximum involvement for youngsters with lots of ideas for games and activities.
“Any teacher interested in attending should contact me at the club or via russellperry@btinternet.com.”
