The Back Story
The Cupertino Union School District’s Board of Education (CUSD) has entered into an agreement with California Cricket Academy (CCA) a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization to renovate an unused, run-down field at the site of the former Luther Elementary School at 220 Blake Ave, Santa Clara, CA. The academy has been promoting healthy activities, social inclusion, and fulfillment for the U.S. Cricket community members for the past 16 years. More than 35 CCA players have represented USA at the U-19 and U-15 national team levels
CCA and CUSD have collaborated to modernize this valuable space and accommodate a cricket field and to improve the overall appearance and functions of the space. The new site will provide multiple benefits that go far beyond aesthetics and community recreation. CCA has hired an experienced turf pitch curator Sam Plummer from Florida, to prepare a top-quality turf wicket field for the academy.
Children within the age range of 5 to 17 years are considered within the pivotal age range where they learn and grow and become adult pillars of society. We must inspire them to hone their skills and realize their limitless potential and hidden talent, not just in academics, but also in sports. Sports also helps keep children away from digital media, drugs, and habits that will be harmful in the long-run. America has one of the richest cricketing histories of any country in the world, and the sport has been a vehicle for positive social change around the world.
The Cost
It is said that the ‘Success of kids is the duty of the community’. Thus, sport lovers and health enthusiasts want to join the academy’s initiative in making a positive impact. CCA is inviting everyone to help with the renovation of the Elementary school field, thereby increasing the usability of the space in such a prime location. No matter how big or small a donation, every bit counts., and the support of all will go toward the construction and installation of the best practice nets and a full length international standard cricket pitch, a storage shed, and a portable restroom on a portion of the property. The budgeted cost of the project is $200,000 which includes ground clean-up, grading, a sprinkler system ($100,000), and construction of the turf pitch and cricket batting cages ($100,000).
Stay tuned here for updates on this project and the progress being made.