Southern California Youth Cricket Academy
We have recently had a few opportunities to present our youth cricket program to various audiences in an effort to continue to grow the SCYCA. In addition to the Sunday 2-hour group session, we are also providing a Tuesday evening net practice (2-hour sessions) with a hard ball and full kit, geared to fine-tune skills of interested players, and work on specific aspects in a more one-on-one environment. This is proving to be invaluable and really impacting both skill levels and enthusiasm.
Michael Voss and Shantha Suraweera.
Shantha Suraweera and Michael Voss recently had the opportunity to introduce cricket to the Foothill Elementary School, which included a very enthusiastic youth participation in our batting demonstration. We received a positive response from both parents and children, and anticipate working closely with the school and parents moving forward. The goal is to start a cricket program at the school as well as have additional youth join our weekly group.
On Saturday, Nov 1, Shantha and Michael presented an hour-long introduction to The California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance at Irvine Valley College – an ongoing study course for PE teachers from predominantly the Orange County area. The goal again was to create an awareness among the PE teachers as to the benefits of a cricket program at their schools, and provide confidence that this is something that will be enjoyed by the children and easily managed by the teachers. We will be following up directly with the various schools that expressed interest and enthusiasm, and will provide a donated “starter” kit, as well as support to get their programs running smoothly.
Through our continuing outreach program through the SCYCA parents and committee members, we have made additional contacts to present the cricket program, and will provide feedback as we achieve various milestones. We are currently working on a date to present to the Newhart Middle School and have been focusing on building relationships with local state and city officials to secure permanent cricket facilities for the youth – practice facilities and better pitches.
We are encouraging both parents and PE teachers to become level 1 coaches, so that we can continue to grow with a coaching philosophy and program that is consistent in approach.
