Published on:
02
June 2008
On Thursday 29 May, 350 children from local primary schools in Clackmannanshire descended onto The Arns, home of Clackmannan County Cricket Club, for their annual cricket festival.
The aim was for children to experience the skills involved in the game of cricket through the Taggarts Jaguar National Introductory Programme Challenge. The challenge consists of six cricket-specific drills that include catching, bowling, throwing and striking. The aim of the challenge is to get as many points as possible in the set time - not only for their school but also for the cricket club.
The schools that attended took part in both the challenges and some small-sided games that were run and coached by volunteers from the cricket club and other clubs in the surrounding areas. This gave the children the opportunity to meet a friendly face from the club. The school teams were made up of pupils in P4 and P5.
All those who completed the challenge did themselves and their schools proud, as the results were fantastic. The Ronald Cunningham Quaich was awarded to Fishcross Primary School for working well together as a team, listening to instructions from coaches and encouraging one another. The award was presented by Lesley Robertson, Service Manager for Education within Clackmannanshire Council.
Lesley Robertson commented, "It is fantastic that the CPSSA, Sport Central, and Clackmannanshire Council's Sports Development all worked in partnership along with the local club, Clackmannan County Cricket Club to deliver an event that over 350 could participate in. All these people helped ensure the smooth running of the event on the day and as a result so many aspiring young people enjoyed an excellent day. Well done to all those involved. I am sure the club are looking forward to welcoming some of the participating children to their club."
Councillor McGill who also attended commented that, "All the children appeared to be enjoying a really positive experience. The Arns was buzzing and it was great to be invited down. We will see you all again next year, weather permitting of course!"
The cricket club hold their coaching evening for primary school children on a Monday evening from 6.30pm - 8pm. Anyone wishing to join or if you require any further information please contact Linda King on 01259 216660. If you would like any information on cricket in Forth Valley please contact Kari Anderson at SportCentral on 01786 432348.