Dereham Cricket Club target youth development

DEREHAM Cricket Club are putting a new emphasis on youth in an effort to push the club forward.

Chairman Neil Irons has pledged to put the focus on youth players this year and to get more children involved in cricket.

'Over the past few years we have had to compete with all the other clubs in the area,' said Irons. 'Everyone is trying their hardest to get children interested. Of course we are a weather-based sport, but why children don't want to play is confusing – they have everything compared to 20 years ago.

'In 2013 we have two Level Two coaches in place and an ample amount of players willing to help. We're moving our training session to Sunday mornings, which I hope will give parents time to bring their children, without the pressure after work during the week.'

Dereham are also offering free membership for U15s as an extra incentive.

Irons added: 'We're having a signing on night where I can meet the parents and explain how Dereham CC operates. We have arranged an open youth indoor training session on March 31, 2pm-4pm where, for a small fee to cover costs, they get a taster of what lies ahead.

'All the managers are in place and can't wait to see the boys and girls enjoying cricket.'

The club operate three Saturday sides, with the first team in Division One of the Norfolk Alliance, the second team in Division Six and the newly-promoted third team starting life in Division Three of the West Norfolk League.

Dereham have various fundraising events planned, including a quiz and chips night on March 23, the annual race night in May and an 80s night disco in July.

For more details email derehamcc@hotmail.com or contact Irons on 07748 302551.