The landscape of Cricket is a rapidly changing one. Fewer boys are playing the game in schools than at any stage in the last hundred years – but there are far more girls than ever before. Those who do play probably do so at a higher technical standard, and many are dedicated to the game. Year-round programmes are increasingly the norm, enabling more rapid progress. Those who love it, love it as much as they ever did.
Schools therefore need to provide a wider programme than ever before. The ability to support aspirational players sits alongside the requirement to engage beginners and stimulate a love for the game amongst boys and girls of a wide variety of experience. At the same time, resources are stretched in new ways. Knowledgeable and dedicated staff are more difficult to find, and expectations of facilities have increased. Time for practice is squeezed, and the exam season pressurises the fixture list.
The role of the Head of Cricket has become more demanding. Creating a programme which fulfils a range of ambitions, from high performance to wide participation, is a challenge. This year’s Conference seeks to support the different dimensions of the role. It considers the future of the game and the place of schools within it, whilst supporting Heads of Cricket to address practical issues and remain aware of the most contemporary trends in coaching. It also provides an opportunity to network with like-minded professionals in the inspiring environment of the home of the game.
