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TESTIMONIALS


'The First Aid course delivered by Roger was excellent. I have been on a few FA courses over the years and this was the most engaging with a great combination of humour and focus on preparing for and delivering first aid for the children and adults we support at our clubs. Very timely provision of post course information too so thanks Roger!' Club Volunteer March 2024


'Thank you so much for arranging the cricket sessions at our school. Charlie (Scudder) is a wonderful cricket coach and amazing role model to youngsters. The children and staff were very impressed.' Teacher Feb 2024


'Thanks to Jordan (Richards) for coming and running an amazing (SEN cricket session) for our students. On their behalf, I'd like to say a big thank you as they loved it!! The students really struggle in mainstream PE lessons and today they really got stuck in with all the different activities and they can't wait for next week.' Teacher Feb 2024


'I just wanted to write to you all (Ben Tomlinson, Chris Edwards, Jess Lewis and Stewart Garnett) to thank you for all of your support during the ECB Foundation Course. I have honestly gained so much from the course, and all of your time and efforts certainly didn’t go unnoticed. I’ll be back with Romiley ladies with an armoury of new skills for our next match too.' Coach Feb 2024


'I would like to say how great the (Chance to Shine) sessions Ben (Duckworth) delivered were. He was professional, knowledgeable, calm, firm and fun. The sessions taught the children new skills and built on from one another allowing the children to take their learning from the prior lesson into the next which I know will have been expertly designed by Chance to Shine. Ben was so consistent with the children and they responded really positively to his teaching and high expectations of them.

I really enjoyed the sessions and know from speaking to other staff members that we were all impressed by Ben and found the session interesting and informative.' Teacher Feb 2024


'Thanks so much (Cheshire Cricket Board Coach Development Team) for your teaching and coaching over the last four weeks, there is clearly a lot of work that goes into these (ECB Core Coach) courses and we certainly felt the benefit. I'd just like to pay a personal thank you to each of you for bringing your own individuality to the process, showing us all that a good coach doesn't come from a robotic production line, we can all bring our own personalities and find that sweet spot where we can be ourselves whilst coaching. The advice and support received was brilliant and my other coaches at our club have mentioned that they can tell the difference already, so it's clearly worked! The course is fantastic, offers a real depth of learning and I would recommend it to everyone who is involved in coaching cricket. Thanks again.' Teacher Feb 2024


'Just to say thanks to Marianne (Lea) for today. The children really enjoyed it (Chance to Shine Engagement Day) and staff were positive with their feedback. She was very organised and we felt confident that she would deliver great sessions. We need more female role models like Marianne in school!' Teacher Feb 2024


'She (Jo Herbertson) was an absolute pleasure to work with. She brought so much enthusiasm to every class. All the teachers praised her and said how much they'd leant by watching her and all learners loved her teaching. We would happily welcome her back again.' Teacher Jan 2024


'Thank you to Charlie (Scudder), the children and staff thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and lunch club. Thank you for providing the children with an excellent opportunity this term.' Teacher Dec 2023


'Thank you for the two days of training (Coach Foundation course) and guiding us through some delicate areas of cricket. Coaching was a different ball game until the two days of your guidance. The session was extremely informative well organised and all three coaches (Stewart Garnett, Gareth Moorhouse and Andrew Jackson) were brilliant in fielding our endless questions during the sessions.' Coach Dec 2023


'Thank you (Owen Williamson) for inviting us to the Cricket skills event this morning - both children and staff really enjoyed it and it was fantastic for some of our SEND children to get a taste of cricket! Please keep us in mind for any future events.' School PE Leader Dec 2023


'I wanted to say how much I enjoyed the (ECB Umpiring) course and that you (Marianne Lea) and Stewart (Garnett) are a great double act. You were both very approachable, never talked down to us, and importantly kept the energy up all day so we were engaged. Time went really quickly which is always a good sign. On the course structure - a very good mix of theory and practice  - loved the lbw decision section.' Umpire Nov 2023


'Thanks Graeme (Rickman), Gavin (Colebourn) and Gareth (Moorhouse) for an excellent session (Indoor Training Workshop) which I found really helpful in what is an evolutionary process delivering to a mixed disability county team. Thanks again for your time and look forward to attending the next ones.' Coach Oct 2023


'Just wanted to say a massive thankyou for the training session last night (Indoor Training Workshop). I found it very useful and a great slant on indoor training.  Really good balance between information and participation as always from you guys.'  Coach Oct 2023


'Positive feedback is seldom shared, but I wanted to say how easy it was to book on Advanced this year, so a big well done to everyone for sorting out last year’s gremlins.' Parent October 2023


'Just wanted to thank you to Owen Williamson and Chris Edwards for organising yesterday's disability festival to support my President's day.
Everyone agreed it was a wonderful start to the day, comments like 'it filled my heart with joy' were in abundance and it has inspired some to want to get involved.
All the players were well-behaved and had smiles on their faces throughout the morning. Their parents, guardians, carers were all very complimentary about the whole event.
That is down to you guys, and as a Board member it makes me very proud to see how much you put in to making cricket fun and how professional you are.  We are very lucky to have you. Well done and thank you.' Di Totty, President, Chester Boughton Hall CC Sept 2023


'A HUGE thank you to you all for all the coaching, support and encouragement you have given our children over the past years. Watching them play the game with such enjoyment has meant a lot and this is enhanced by the set up offered by Cheshire and the wonderful culture and ethics they have. Not only has this helped develop their sporting skills but social and emotional ones too. It has been great getting to know all of you too.' Parent Sept 2023


'I would like to thank you and your team for organising such a great event (Cheadle Summer Course). My child enjoyed every single day and he found this summer camp very joyful and productive.' Parent August 2023


'A massive thank you for this opportunity (SEND Cricket delivery) you gave us this half term

Chris (Edwards), you were superb with our kids and the sessions were absolutely fantastic and it's given us staff some great ideas to take into our other lessons with the other year groups.

If this opportunity arises again next year then we would be more than happy to take advantage of it because the kids got so much out of it.' Teacher July 2023


'I just wanted to let you know how great Jo (Herbertson) was. She was fabulous with the students and staff (at The Grange Academy) and it was a real positive experience. I'm in contact with her for next academic year so hopefully we can promote the game further.' Teacher July 2023


'I would like to start by saying a huge thank you for the Chance to Shine opportunity. It was a great experience for our year threes and fours.
Jordan (Richards) was a fantastic coach. Professional, organised and a wonderful manner with the children.
The lessons were well structured and followed from lesson to the next with creative activities teaching the children key skills.

Our staff commented on some of the activities and have already started using them in their own lessons.

The children loved having Jordan and I have been approched by children and some parents saying that they loved the sessions and would love to try cricket outisde of school.

Thanks again and keep us in mind for any other schemes and opportunities.' Teacher June 2023


'A huge thank you for your (Chris Wright) work with our children this half term.

The children and staff have absolutely loved it.
If we can be considered for next year, it would be very much appreciated.' Teacher June 2023


'Thank you so much for our cricket sessions this half term.

Tom (Birch)is excellent and we really enjoy him coming to our school so please will you pass on this feedback. The staff think he is excellent and the children really enjoy his lessons too.

Please can we book the same sessions for next year?' Teacher June 2023


'Thank you for arranging the visit to St Theresa’s Catholic Primary School in Blacon yesterday. The visit couldn’t have gone better; Atif (Qureshi) and Graeme (Rickman) ’s intra session worked well, and our guests from the Westminster Foundation (including the Duke) were very impressed with what they saw/heard. I had some great conversations with them about cricket in the Chester area, Chance to Shine, and schools’ cricket in general. They were equally interested in ‘what’s next’ for the children and the delivery plans for year two, including Ellesmere Port.

I also had conversations with the Headteacher and PE Coordinator, who sung Atif’s praises. As well as the impact on teachers, through the session, it was very clear as to the impact Atif had made on the children. In turn, Atif had praise for the PE Coordinator, and it struck me as a good example of the relationship that needs to be built between coach and teacher to ensure a ‘culture of cricket’ can exist.

It's evident that the support from Westminster Foundation has allowed Cheshire CB to visit some schools/locations that might not have had the opportunity previously, and that can only be a good thing. You’re doing a great job with this project, so thank you and well done.' Operations Manager, Chance to Shine, May 2023


'Year 3: Charlie (Scudder) has been fantastic at empowering the children with a love of the game and helping them explore techniques to make them successful at cricket. She has made the sport fun whilst delivering the activities safely. It has been great to see the children's skills develop over the weeks especially those who were less confident at the beginning.

Year 6: Charlie was fantastic with the children. Key points were that she was really organised; all her games were such that all children were involved - no hanging around. She also adapted them for the nature of our children ie they are less competitive than other schools so took the competition element out of certain games and focussed on inclusion and participation which was exactly what our children need.

Brilliant coach and opened up our children's eyes to cricket which they did not know much about at all.' Teacher May 2023


'Thank you to Harry Newton who has delivered Chance to Shine lessons to year 1 and year 4. The classes are always well run and it has raised the profile of cricket in school. It is very much appreciated'. Teacher May 2023


'All our boys have really fallen in love with table cricket, we really want to say how happy we are as a school that the boys have made it to Lords. Staff have been working with some of these boys for seven years and to watch them compete in table cricket has been amazing. We are so happy that table cricket has given them the opportunity to get involved in sport and represent the school'. Teacher April 2023


'The Table Cricket Regional Final was a fantastic event played in such a great sporting manner which allowed all our students the opportunity to represent the school in competitive sport. Some of our students had taken part in the table cricket for the last 5 years and have loved being part of a team. Seeing them develop personally and enjoying the interaction with other schools and students is such a rich and rewarding experience.' Teacher April 2023


'Jordan (Richards) was organised and punctual for the Chance to Shine sessions each week. He has a respectful and calm manner with the children, ensuring that they are engaged at all times. Each session was well paced and ensured that the children built on their skills each week. All children had access to resources and they were prepped and well organised prior to the session. Expectations and lesson objectives were made clear prior to and throughout the sessions, more able children were presented with plenty of challenge, therefore keeping them engaged.

'The children have really enjoyed Jordan’s sessions and we have had lots of complimentary feedback from the parents and enquiries about further sessions. Thank you for everything. And we look forward to working with you again.' Teacher April 2023


'The Chance to Shine sessions have been magnificent and the pupils have got so much out of them – not only developing their cricketing skills but also their teamwork and communication skills. The coach, Jordan (Richards), has delivered a brilliant range of activities, which always culminate in a game and the class has absolutely loved the technical aspects and then applying these in fun ways in the game. The way each lesson is structured is so clever and engaging – focussing on a skill and building up the technique or method with achievable drills, which gradually progress in difficulty. Every session has been fully inclusive and through the skill of the coach, he has also expanded the pupils’ knowledge of the rules and scoring of cricket. As a result of the positivity and engagement with the sessions, many of the class have enquired about playing more cricket or joining a club and we are already looking forward to attending a local cricket tournament. The Chance to Shine Cricket coaches are always the best coaches we have at our school and the overall programme is phenomenal and fully achieves its goal of engaging and inspiring pupils to get involved with cricket. A HUGE thank you for the opportunity to be part of it.' Teacher March 2023


'Just wanted to say a big thank you (to the Coaches Joanne Herbertson, Gareth Moorhouse and Graeme Rickman) for running the course (Foundation Course) these last 2 Sundays. I really enjoyed myself, learned a lot and met some really nice people. Thought it was really well run and lots of fun as well.' Coach March 2023


'Our students have really enjoyed our visits from Cheshire Cricket (Ben Tomlinson & Harry Newton). We learnt how to play quick cricket on the table tennis table, using a ramp to push the ball with our fingers. We then moved on to exploring the MATP (Motor Activity Training Programme) with a variety of new and accessible LUSU equipment, including tactile balls with bells so that our visually impaired students can hear them moving and tactile objects hanging from posts with adjustable height for students to reach and grasp. We have also had the opportunity to practise kicking balls from posts with adjustable heights, had fun with the parachute and skittles and practised catching balls with a 'tap hand' and target spot.

During these sessions we have developed many skills including movement in different speed and directions, focusing and tracking with the eyes, and balance. We have also developed skills in sending, tapping, intercepting and receiving objects. And finally, we have developed skills in rolling and shaking balls, strengthening the wrist during throwing actions, as well as bouncing, accuracy and spatial awareness.

It's great to be a part of these inclusive sessions and we look forward to more in the future.' Teacher March 2023


'Hi Graeme (Rickman) & Stewart (Garnett), just a quick note to thank you both for your considerable efforts to make the (ECB Core Coach) course so rewarding & enjoyable. The course content is great but it requires energy & skill to convey so much in such a short window of time. I thoroughly enjoyed the course and it has definitely given me more confidence to help coach & develop the U13s at Macclesfield. In addition it’s also helped me with my own game so I look forward to putting into practice during the forthcoming season with the Over 40’s at Macc. ' Coach March 2023


'Our pupils were recently invited to participate in the Cheshire Cricket’s SEND cricket skills festival at Hartford high school.

The festival saw the pupils taking part in a series of stations which enabled them to try out their bowling, batting, and fielding skills. The pupils also had the opportunity to interact with peers from other schools. Pupils were supported by the excellent young leaders from Hartford high.

Pupils were all actively engaged. This was a big experience for our pupils who were supported incredibly by Owen (Williamson), Chris (Edwards) and the young leaders.

A massive thank you the young leaders, Owen Williamson from Cheshire Cricket Board and Chris Story from Vale Royal Schools Sports partnership.' Teacher Feb 2023


'The communication and organisation was very good and the whole process was very easy to set up. Andy (Dufty) was brilliant with the kids. From what the other teachers have said, the lessons were pitched at a level which allowed everyone to participate and have fun. The activities in the lessons allowed children to learn the skills needed but in a way that children enjoyed. The children really enjoyed the lessons and a lot have expressed an interest in playing more Cricket in the future. Staff have said that they feel much more confident teaching cricket after the sessions too. Overall a very positive experience and would highly recommend Andy for anyone interested in improving the teaching of cricket.' Teacher from Andy Dufty's school which he attended as a child. Feb 2023


'Year 3 have enjoyed engaging with improving their batting, bowling and growing their knowledge of playing cricket by practising skills individually and as part of a small team.
Each week, the children have looked forward to playing cricket, and everyone has enthusiastically taken part in these enriching lessons. It was also lovely to see our SEND children join in too. Both coaches were friendly, professional and established a good relationship with the children. The class teacher has benefited from observing the sessions and has taken ideas from these for future lessons. Thank you, Mark (Greaves) and Andy (Dufty), for teaching Year 3 cricket last half term. Teacher Feb 2023


'Thank you so much for giving our children this amazing opportunity. It has been one of the most exciting and popular sporting activities that they have ever experienced. The children and staff have learnt so much and the children have discovered a new sport that only one or two of them had played before, the majority of the children didn’t know what cricket was before this opportunity.
Atif (Qureshi) has been absolutely amazing, he really got to know our children and they responded so well to him. He is an unbeievable coach and the staff and children loved every minute of his sessions. We cannot thank him enough for all he did during his time with us and he will be greatly missed.
As a result of the sessions we are now entering a cricket tournament that is part of our school games events calendar and we have never entered before. We also have a number of children keen for us to continue with a cricket club, after school.
Thank you so much to yourselves and Chance to Shine for allowing us to be part of this and we would love to be part of any future events.' Teacher Feb 2023


'Thank you for today (Owen Williamson). I don’t think I’ve been to a competition where our pupils have got so much out of it as today. It was great for them and it’s a brilliant sport (Table Cricket).' Teacher Jan 2023


'Cricket at our school has had a great start. (Coach) Charlie (Scudder) is organised, enthusiastic and her sessions engage the children from the first minute - thanks Charlie!' Teacher Jan 2023


'Our headteacher was in the Y6 lesson and thought Charlie (Scudder) was brilliant. It was a great lesson and the headteacher was very impressed. Some children in Y4 said it was 'the best PE lesson we have ever had' and many other children commented on how much they enjoyed it.  So I just wanted to say a huge thanks! We can't wait for next week.' Teacher Jan 2023


'Really positive feedback from the staff and children about today's (Chance to Shine) lessons (from Jordan Richards) in school.' Teacher Jan 2023


Just wanted to express our thanks to you (Gareth Moorhouse), for helping us obtain the welcome grant for Newton. It has already had a massive impact on bookings and social events for the cricket club during the closed season. We have had several private functions this month with more to come, all making use of the facilities we purchased with the grant.
We are also hosting a morning breakfast with Santa for all our junior players, we have also opened this event up to children off the estate and is another sell out.Without the new facilities this wouldn't have been possible.' Newton CC Dec 2022


'We recently had Amy Jones in to school to teach our Year 5s and 6s cricket.  We just wanted to say how fantastic both the children and the teachers thought she was!  She was professional in her teaching style and with the pupils, and delivered some brilliant sessions.  They focused on different aspects of cricket and built up to playing a mini match.  The children were really engaged throughout, she managed their behaviour well and we feel that they really developed their cricket skills.  We would highly recommend the programme and wish Amy luck in her next steps too.' Teacher Dec 2022


'Amy (Jones) is fab and the children are so responsive to her.' Teacher Nov 2022


'We had a 6 week block of (Chance to Shine) lessons with Amy (Jones), who was excellent with the children.  We were unlucky on a few occasions with the weather, and on subsequent occasions Amy offered to give us extended sessions to make up for the lost time.
The games were fun, skills were quickly developed, and there was a great balance between participation and some competitive elements to the sessions.
I would definitely recommend this and hope we can do it again in the future.
Thank you for providing this opportunity to the children.' Teacher November 2022


'Just wanted to say a huge thank you for your cricket training. The children in my class were asking me all the time if you (Graeme Rickman) were coming back before half term! You managed to fit in so much in such a short space of time - thank you!' Teacher, Oct 2022


'Graeme (Rickman) many thanks for inviting me to watch the (Advanced Course) sessions on Thursday. It was great to learn new drills and watch the different styles of delivery.  Our child has loved the sessions over the years and I can see why . Please pass on my thanks to Scott (Wardley) and his Thursday team.' Coach Oct 2022


'The children have thoroughly enjoyed their six week block of Cricket sessions with Chris (Edwards). Each week, the children have been provided with a range of different activities in which the class has been so engaged throughout. They have gained lots of new skills and developed existing ones. The children have been given the opportunity to become successful team players as well as good sportsmen/women. Most of the sessions ended with mini games of cricket which the children would always look forward to. On their last session, they were all awarded stickers for the hard work. The children were absolutely gutted that their sessions had come to an end and have already been asking when they will be doing Cricket again!!
A great opportunity that we were provided with and we would highly recommend to other year groups and schools. We hope to see Chris again soon!' Teacher (Trafford Chance to Shine) October 2022


'Just a note to say a huge thank you for all you (Stewart Garnett) and the team did this week throughout what was very unpredictable weather.  Our son arrived knowing no-one and enjoyed every single day enormously. He made lots of friends. He absolutely loves cricket and just wants to play and practice every day. On Wednesday he just practiced in his V net all day and couldn’t wait to go back. He loved the longer days thank you for putting that on. Next week he start his ‘hat-trick’ of summer courses. He would have done them all if he could.' Parent Summer 2022


'Just wanted to say thanks so much to you (Stewart Garnett) and your fellow coaches.  Our child has massively enjoyed his time over the last week and his enjoyment and passion for the game has grown even more.' Parent Summer 2022


'Our child loved the Summer Course at Woodford, and has been buzzing about cricket all week. The course, playing a match with his bro and then…shame he had to miss out yesterday, but a first ever day at the Test with fam and grandad ended up grabbing a pic with centurion Ben Foakes (with our Sam, and a random kid they’d never met…but cricket’s great for making new friends!)' Parent Summer 2022


'Thank you to the coaches for all their hard work during the Autumn term, the children have really enjoyed the sessions at school.' Teacher Autumn 2022


'Hi Jess (Jessica Lewis) - I just wanted to acknowledge what a brilliant job Jo and Kerry (Jo Herbertson and Kerry Hartnett) did whilst the girls were in Malvern.  The team had such a good time and are becoming such a well bonded team it's amazing to see.  You can see that all the girls feel valued and that they get a chance to contribute and develop their love for the game, plus help each other build resilience during the difficult moments in cricket.

It was such a great experience for them and playing a lot of cricket in such great weather was wonderful.

Thanks again - and to you (Jessica Lewis) for you work on U11s also.' Parent August 2022


'We write to express our thanks to the Cheshire coaches (Jo Herbertson and Kerry Hartnett) for looking after our daughter so well at Malvern.  She had the best time on and off the pitch and we loved seeing her grow in confidence with her cricket and develop new friendships.

The U11’s, supported by Jo and Kerry, played some wonderful cricket, really came together as a team and represented Cheshire maturely and displayed great sportsmanship …whilst also having lots of fun and making memories.' Parents August 2022


'Just wanted to say thank you so much for the amazing support you (Jo Herbertson and Kerry Hartnett) gave to my daughter during the Malvern week. She loved it but found it hard at times too which made her really chuffed that she had done it! The way you coach and support the girls is absolutely perfect - in a really caring way but discreet too, in my daughter's words "I am so lucky with my coaches, they are amazing." She is right.'

Jo and Kerry were amazing, professional and dedicated throughout the festival; supporting, encouraging and nurturing the girls, always with big smiles and a never failing sense of humour …. all in the blistering heat too! They were first class so thank you Cheshire Cricket for giving the girls the opportunity to attend Malvern and for sending the coaches who coped so brilliantly with 13 x hot, excitable and haribo fuelled U11’s!! ' Parent August 2022


'I just wanted to thank you for including my son in the Super 1s competition today. It was so well organised and really friendly and inclusive. I know I’ve said before that he absolutely loves the Monday sessions at The Hive with Chris (Edwards) - they really are his highlight of the week - but I wasn’t sure how he’d manage in a different situation with lots of new people. Chris was, as usual, brilliant with him - so encouraging. And Jordan (Richards) was so kind supporting him to join in. He didn’t stay until the end (he was getting quite tired in the heat) but he left on a high and is really pleased with himself for joining in. We generally really struggle to get him to join in with anything new so this was a real achievement and I think it has helped him understand more about the actual game of cricket.' Parent August 2023


'Thank you Ben (Tomlinson) for all your hard work in organising the tournament today.
It was so slick and the children had a fantastic time.
Thanks once again and we hope to have you guys back in to school next year.' Teacher June 2022


'We co-ordinated sessions with Ben (Tomlinson) at the end of the last academic year so we could have 6 weeks of sessions in each of our three schools.
The coaches (Ben Tomlinson & Harry Newton) were great and interacted with the children throughout. The children learned new skills and really looked forward to their cricket lesson and after school club each week.' Teacher June 2022


'Thank you (Graeme Rickman) for a great coaching course. I thoroughly enjoyed it and learned lots, all of which has already been hugely beneficial for our U11s sessions at Toft. Thank you for your encouragement and feedback yesterday. I look forward to hopefully doing the Core Coaching course at some point in the future.' Coach May 2022


'Thank you (Graeme Rickman) so much for coming to St.Peter's yesterday and delivering the cricket sessions. The children throughly enjoyed the sessions and children who are not so keen on PE were positive about the session. Hopefully a number of children will sign up for Allstars and develop a passion for the game.' Teacher May 2022


'I wanted to drop you an email to say firstly how well Harry (Newton) is doing. I've had really positive feedback from the two class teachers. I was also wondering about the possibility of getting you all booked in for next year.' Teacher May 2022


'Just wanted to message to say the junior section loved having Harry (Newton) there last Friday. They said he was great and it really raised the level of training to make it more purposeful.' Club Coach May 2022


'Can I just say how amazing today was. Thank you so much Fran (Francis Yates) - you are such a great coach.
All of the teachers said the same thing, that the sessions were perfectly pitched, the children were completely engaged and the behaviour was excellent.
The way that Fran took the time to really get to know the children, listen to what they had to say and really pay attention to them really impressed me.
I loved how you really boosted the confidence of certain individuals at the end of the session with the oldest class - they will remember what you said to them forever.' Headteacher April 2022


'Thank you for delivering a superb course (ECB Core Coach) over the 4 weeks.  You managed to get a great balance between the theory and practice whilst encouraging some good interaction.  It certainly took me out of my comfort zone which is what you need to do if you are truly going to learn something new well enough to put it into practice.' Coach April 2022


'I’ve spent years in the learning and teaching environment and can’t praise the programme enough. It and you had the ability to manipulate the delivery in a bespoke way to my needs. I had no idea what to expect. I didn’t apply for the course. I didn’t know the stages. I was just invited to attend by my club and they paid the fee. In hindsight it was naïve at best.

You gave me the confidence to continue from that first morning when I was reflecting upon whether I could reach the very high bar due to my lack of technical and practical knowledge.

The girls were so supportive and encouraging and I’m glad I was part of an all female course. I found it easy to ask my peers who went out of their way to offer advice and tips in a completely non-judgmental way. It all helped enormously and It was a privilege to watch them play. I felt supported and confident just to ‘have a go’.

I also wanted to praise the E-learning. I found it to be a brilliant tool. I watched and re-watched those videos and will continue to do so. The ECB has a clearly professional programme of learning. I can say this having undertaken similar with the LTA and the RFU. This was superior.  The curriculum really supported the learning outcomes.

As for your teaching style it is second to none. Thank you for your patience!' Coach March 2022


'I thoroughly enjoyed the four (Core Coach) sessions and thought you were both excellent with the delivery of the core coaching course. It challenged me in many different ways and I will certainly be a better coach for having been through the experience. I have made a number of new coaching friends and established great contacts for U9 and U11 friendly fixtures for this summer.' Coach March 2022


'I just felt it was important to let you know how impressed a number of the teachers were with Charlie's (Scudder) sessions today. She was professional, well organised and her coaching was great. The way she adapted the activities for the child who is in a wheelchair was appreciated and shows what a skillful coach she is.' Teacher March 2022


'Thank you (Stewart Garnett) so much for the wonderful lessons and clubs you have provided this year.  I am absolutely delighted with everything you've done for us and the feedback I've had for staff, children and parents alike has been fantastic.  I'm so glad we altered our P.E provision to include you this year and I very much expect we will continue to do so (as I know our Assistant Principal is incredibly happy with all you've done too). School PE Lead February 2022


'Thanks to you both (Graeme Rickman and Owen Williamson) for making the (Core Coach) course enjoyable and making us all feel part of the process.
I really enjoyed the course and the balance between practical and discussion based learning made the sessions fly by.
I’m looking forward to taking the knowledge gained in to our club sessions and beyond.
Hope to see you both at some cricket based activity in the future.' Coach Jan 2022


'The children in Reception class took part in a sequence of (Chance to Shine) cricket lessons. They absolutely loved it! They learnt skills such as throwing, catching and batting and every lesson they were so engaged. It was brilliant. Lots of these children have since been setting up the batting games that Ben (Tomlinson) had taught them in their continuous provison outside. It had a real impact on the children!' Teacher Jan 2022


'We’d like to thank you (Andrew Jackson) and the coaches for all your support and encouragement throughout the course, he’s thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and is looking forward to the District course.' Parent Jan 2022


'Huge thanks for the wonderful sessions our son could be part of on this course. Hopefully he will be able to join another course in future!' Parent Jan 2022


'Just wanted to say that I really enjoyed the Foundation 1 course and thought it was extremely well run.  Mark (Greaves), Ben (Tomlinson) & AJ (Andrew Jackson) were all friendly, helpful and clear so that everything ran smoothly - a nice but professional approach.' Coach Jan 2022


'Merry Christmas Everyone. Thank you Jo (Herbertson), for all your help and support with the Women's game this year,
you are a superstar. Looking forward to the 2022 season.' Macclesfield Ladies Dec 2021


'Thank you all for the leadership, energy and enthusiasm you all put into the ECB Coaching Foundation 1 course; these were particularly impressive at 09:00 on a Sunday morning.
I am grateful for your input and for the difference you make to cricket in Cheshire in general, and my club in particular.
We are very fortunate to have a team of highly engaged and talented people at our club and with their support and the learning from this course I have every expectation that our sessions will be increasingly purposeful, active, safe and enjoyable.
Thank you for helping me along my coaching journey and thereby enabling us to offer more to our players.' Coach Nov 2021


'Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed ECB Coaching Foundation Course 1. Incredibly useful, can’t wait for the next one!' Coach Nov 2021


'Ben (Tomlinson) came in to work with our upper KS2 classes during Autumn Term 1. The children engaged in 7 cricket based session out doors in which they all enjoyed.  They learned some basic cricket skillls as well as the rules of the game. Feedback from both children and staff has been fantastic and we would welcome Ben back to our school and local community without questions.  A huge thanks from all the staff and chidlren.' Teacher Nov 2021


'We will be sorry to see you (Andrew Jackson - AJ) go but I'm sure you will do a great job over in Warrington. Thank you on behalf of all the children and staff at school - you have inspired so many children to enjoy cricket and to join in at their local club. Good luck!' Head Teacher Oct 2021


'I just wanted to say how much our girls enjoyed the cricket camp at Tattenhall. Each day they came away buzzing and wanting to do more. Please thank the coaches so much and tell them how great it was.' Parent, August 2021


'Thanks to you (Graeme Rickman) and your team for the fours days of hardball cricket camp in Warrington; George has thoroughly enjoyed it and has come away feeling as though he has developed his skills.' Parent, July 2021


'Just wanted to say a massive thanks to the team running the Summer Course at Oulton Park CC. Our child had an absolutely brilliant time and learnt so much.' Parent, July 2021


'Thanks for all the courses you have run this season. Our children came home literally buzzing about their (Young Officials) Course experience. Thank you so much to Gareth (Moorhouse) and please thank the wider team too. I have always enjoyed the courses too. It's been a brilliant summer at our club so far and we have had amazing feedback. It's not possible without the courses -thank you!' Parent and Club member, Juy 2021


'The Chance to Shine sessions delivered by Tom (Birch) were well structured and engaging for the children. They really enjoyed the sessions and learnt from them. Tom was adaptable when the weather wasn’t on our side and was always happy to go out of his way to make sure the lesson was completed.During the sessions we did notice that some of the activies in the sessions for year 4 and 6 were the same and we would have liked more progression from these so that our year 6 children were challenged during the lessons. However, this was passed onto Owen (Williamson) as feedback and then adapted for next lesson which was great. We would definitely recommend the Chance to Shine sessions to any other schools and Tom was brilliant, both our children and staff learnt a lot.' Teacher, July 2021


'Ben (Tomlinson) came into school to run Chance to Shine sessions with Y3 & Y2 children. The children loved these sessions and were engaged from the very beginning. The sessions were structured, organised and children made progress. Most of all the children became inspired to play cricket.

'Harry (Newton) then came into school to run a Y5 & Y6 cricket club. The clubs were very popular with children. The Y5 club was at full capacity. The children really enjoyed the club and were inspired by it.' Teacher, July 2021


'It was great having the opportunity to work with Andy (Dufty) in school. He quickly developed good and respectful relationships with the children and it was great to see their skills build week upon week. It has also been great for staff CPD to see how early cricket skills can be taught to Year 2 children thanks to Chance to Shine and how this is progressive from Year 1 to Year 3. I also love the way that we could incorporate our National Curriculum throwing and catching skills objectives into the sessions.' Teacher, July 2021


'It was great having the opportunity to work with Andy (Dufty) with the Chance to Shine sessions in school. He quickly developed good and respectful relationships with the children and it was great to see their skills build week upon week. It has also been great for staff CPD to see how early cricket skills can be taught to Year 2 children and how this is progressive from Year 1 to Year 3. I also love the way that we could incorporate our National Curriculum throwing and catching skills objectives into the sessions.' Teacher, July 2021


'We found the Chance to Shine cricket coaching to be absolutely superb! The coach, Andrew Jackson, was exemplary in his coaching, conduct and behaviour and truly inspired our children to develop their cricket skills. This was especially applicable to the children who had no prior cricket coaching; some have discovered a new hobby!
The sessions were very well structured with very inclusive activities and the coach made particular allowances for those with SEN.
I cannot thank Andrew and the team enough for the support and would be extremely interested to explore potential collaborations in the future.
Many thanks for your continued support.' Teacher, July 2021


'Chance to Shine provided an outstanding service to our KS2 pupils this year. I think most people would agree that sport, more than ever, is important for our young people. At St Monica’s we have always put a huge emphasis on sport as an opportunity for pupils to develop beyond the classroom, whilst helping them academically. Seeing the children develop as leaders through sport is always rewarding. And so, when we were visited by the Chance to Shine team, we were delighted to see those same core values being deveolped within the lessons. Not only was the delivery of cricket first class, but also the opportunities for leadership and personal development. The lessons were always engaging and the children couldn’t wait for their next lesson.
A sincere thank you to Kerry (Hartnett) and AJ (Andrew Jackson) who led the lessons with the utmost professionalism and the very highest energy levels.' Teacher, July 2021


'Mark (Greaves), Andy (Dufty) and the Cheshire team have been teaching cricket for this past academic year, covering KS1 and KS2 classes. They have demonstrated excellent professionalism, great guidance and shown a fantastic understanding and care towards our pupils.
All our pupils across the age ranges have been delighted with the Chance to Shine sessions. Staff have also commented on the level of professionalism delivered.
Parents have also been very complimentary of the sessions in terms of morning feedback to myself and staff.
Many thanks for all your efforts and time during this past academic year and tough times we`ve had to endure.
Look forward to future relationships with Mark, Andy and the team.' Teacher, July 2021


'The children really enjoyed their Chance to Shine cricket sessions, it gave them a brilliant opportunity to learn a wide range of new skills. They looked forward to Ben (Tomlinson’s) visit every Thursday and he made a real impression on all of the children. The children were able to play lots of brilliant games alongside learning brilliant new cricket skills. Following the session children have been really enthusiastic and keen about cricket sessions and asking when they can do them again! Teacher, July 2021


'Our year 6 children have thoroughly enjoyed their recent Chance to Shine cricket lessons with Ben (Tomlinson). They look forward to the sessions and remain engaged and enthusiastic throughout. The activities that they take part in are excellent, and the children have now started to ask to play Ben’s warm up games during our other P.E lessons.
When the children play cricket games at break/lunch times you can see that they are using the skills they have learnt when working with Ben. These skills have also been evident during our cricket competition which the P.E leads have recently asked us to take part in
The sessions have been a great success and the children are really looking forward to their next one.' Teacher, July 2021


'A positive experience. I though the (Chance to Shine) coach did an excellent job and would welcome him back in school. Kids were engaged, having fun and active.' Teacher, July 2021


'It is quite clear to see that Ben (Tom linson)is an outstanding, experienced coach. The children love his Chance to Shine sessions and get so much learning out of it. His sessions are nicely paced and the children are always active. The lessons are also differentiated so he has activies to push the higher ability children and also, whilst being inclusive, adapts the activites so lower ability and SEN children can also join in.
As a teacher and the school PE Coordinator, I also gain a lot by being introduced to new games which I have used in my PE lessons.
sessions and get so much learning out of it. His sessions are nicely paced and the children are always active. The lessons are also differentiated so he has activies to push the higher ability children and also, whilst being inclusive, adapts the activites so lower ability and SEN children can also join in.'
As a teacher and the school PE Coordinator, I also gain a lot by being introduced to new games which I have used in my PE lessons.' Teacher, July 2021


'The children have loved the Cheshire Cricket Chance to Shine sessions. Progress is good with suitable differentiation and a variety of new skills learnt. The children are kept enagaged with exciting and fun activities.' Primary School Teacher, July 2021


'The children absolutely loved their Chance to Shine sessions with Chris (Edwards). The children were very active for the majority of the lesson. The stations that Chris's set ups were brilliant. This gave the children a chance to experience the different aspects of cricket. I would definitely have this workshop in school again for the children. This was a great experience for them.' Primary School Teacher, Wirral July 2021


'Thank you (Graeme) for all the support and help from you and the coach mentors, I have really enjoyed the Coach Foundation 1 course and it has helped me to develop my coaching skills. On my ECB learning all have been completed. I was just wondering if I would receive a certificate online or through the ECB Learning portal.' Coach May 2021 (Note from CCB - attendees receive a hard copy of their certificates in the post)


'Thank you so much for the time and effort you (Graeme Rickman, Mark Greaves, Ben Tomlnson and Gareth Moorhouse) collectively dedicate to the development of grassroot coaching.' Coach May 2021


'The Foundation 1 Course was fantastic.. you guys are really great, knowledgeable and personable . really enjoyed it.. I remember why I loved cricket!! 🙂 You are welcome at our Club anytime!!' Coach May 2021


'Thank you to Graeme (Rickman) and Mark (Greaves) for all your help, enthusiasm and advice. I really enjoyed the Foundation 1 sessions and it was good to meet a great bunch of people. It’s certainly made me want to take a further course.' Coach May 2021


A HUGE thank you to Harry (Newton)! Harry has delivered brilliant sessions today, he was professional and great with the children- all staff were so impressed and children and adults alike were delighted to have such fantastic sessions in school, the children all absolutely loved it! A great atmosphere in school, sun shining and 4 classes loving their cricket- thank you so much! Very much appreciated and already looking forward to next week. Teacher April 2021


'Thank you all for your great work on the advanced course, especially the last three sessions.
Our daughters had an amazing time and have come away with a huge amount of enthusiasm for the game.
They've been out on the street playing and practising what they've learnt, dancing to "I don't like cricket" and claiming that the advanced course was the best training they've ever had and much better than at Poynton CC (where I was their coach! I joke it was the chocolate that swung it ;-)).
All I hear is "Jo told me to do this" and "Kerry said I have to do that".
We enjoyed the sunshine this afternoon and had a game in the local park: I can't believe how much they've improved, not just batting and bowling technique, but I'm amazed at their fielding and game awareness as well as their confidence in what they're doing and the smiles on the faces.
Thanks so much for putting on such enjoyable sessions that have clearly had a big and positive impression on two young girls.'Parent, April 2021


'The virtual learning was extremely well organised and a smooth operation into house and smaller group discussions. Thank you for organising such an informative, interactive, fun and thought provoking sessions. We loved the annotation!' Coach, Runcorn CC Jan 2021


'Thanks Graeme (Rickman). The (virtual) session was excellent thanks - you guys did a great job delivering it online. Looking forward to next time.' Coach Jan 2021


Primary School Children’s Comments (Dec 2020):
'I liked all the games but sometimes I think we need fairer teams.'
'Can we play more games?'
'It was really fun and I learnt a lot. We had really fun activities and really nice teachers (Mark Greaves and Ben Tomlinson). In all I really enjoyed it.'
'It was amazing and I wish we could do more.'
'I’d like higher balls.'


'The coaches we have had quickly understood the needs of the children and adapted their coaching and games to fit their needs. They have been excellent in adapting to the changing COVID guidance and furthering the children’s physical and mental well-being.' Primary School Teacher Dec 2020


'The Cricket coaching is excellent. All of our children are engaged throughout the sessions and thoroughly enjoy the experience. Behaviour management (Mark Greaves) is excellent during the sessions'. Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'All of the children thoroughly enjoyed the coaching sessions. Children were engaged and motivated to learn  new skills and participate in the games which were inclusive and fun. One of the boys in the class (who is often reluctant to join in with PE) said ‘I didn’t like cricket at the start but I began to enjoy it when the coach (Mark Greaves) taught me how to do it properly’.


'The Y3/4/5 children in class 2 really looked forward to their cricket coaching sessions every week. Our coach (Ben Tomlinson) was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, he got to know each of the children individually and gave relevant, easy-to-follow feedback that helped each of them to make good progress.' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'Our primary school has been lucky enough to receive coaches from the Cheshire Cricket Board for the last 3 years and the quality of their provision has always been exceptional. Children – and staff - love the sessions provided as the atmosphere is positive, fun and has everyone is engaged in physical activity from start to finish. It is evident how pupils’ confidence grows throughout sessions and this is very much down to the encouragement they receive from coaching staff, and the fact that activities are tailored to the needs of the group and individuals. Everyone’s input, no matter their ability or experience, is made to feel that they are making a valuable contribution to their team. We have children, who previously did not enjoy PE, now taking up cricket and other sports at a school and local level as a result of sessions provided by AJ (Andrew Jackson). We cannot thank him enough for all that he has brought to our school during his time with us.' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'I just wanted to let you know what a great job Graeme Rickman is doing with teaching cricket to my Year 2 class at Townfield Primary School.
We are currently only two lessons in but the children are thoroughly enjoying themselves and have begun asking each day when their next cricket session is.' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'Teachers learnt a lot about the fundamental skills of cricket and how they are applied in to a game situation during your coaches visits (Mark Greaves and Andy Dufty). The improvement in the children’s skills from the first to the last session was noticeable and they were reinforced and built up each week. The lessons were well paced and organised and there was total engagement with the children throughout who all commented how much they enjoyed the sessions. Teachers felt like they learnt lots of CPD linked to cricket and how they can apply these to other PE sessions.' Primary School PE Lead Nov 2020


'I can’t speak highly enough of the coaches (Owen Williamson and Tom Birch), sessions or professional attitudes of all we have had contact with.  The sessions are well planned, differentiated and fully resourced.  The coaches are specialists within the sport and deliver with great confidence and understanding of Primary aged children, our children are all very inspired to continue playing cricket and have all made excellent progress.  Sessions are fun and engaging with the needs of each individual considered and catered for.   When we have had questions or when organising sessions, responses and positive solutions have been quickly received.' Primary School Principal Nov 2020


'Our first experience of Cheshire Cricket Coaching was in the Spring term of this year. We had just got KS2 lessons up and running and an extremely popular after school club too. Unfortunately it was cut short by the school closures in March. The feedback from pupils, staff and parents was so positive that we started up again at the first available opportunity! In September, Stewart started to coach all of KS2 again for a half term,  and is now working with Reception and Y2 up until Christmas. The sessions are consistently of high quality. The ethos of ‘good sportsmanship’ and ‘teamwork’ underline everything. Children are encouraged to try new skills and to try their best, not to be the best!

The lessons are well organised and  age appropriately planned in line with the National Curriculum for each class. Stewart is very engaging with the children and very quickly strikes a good rapport with them and staff too. The children really look forward to their sessions, as they are very interactive, fun and also challenging. The lessons are planned to be fully inclusive for children of all abilities and it has been wonderful to see some of our SEN children flourish and achieve. We are looking forward to further sessions in the summer term to get some of our pupils ready to take part in a local schools competition. The videos that are sent to teachers and the promotion of opportunities for pupils to pursue their enjoyment of cricket also provide a context and a wider understanding of the sport.  The emphasis on women's cricket has really inspired some of our girls!

As the P.E Lead for the school, I have have benefited from the excellent communication by CCB and Stewart (Garnett).  Their professionalism, approachable manner and flexibility (needed most days in school) has made it easy for me to co-ordinate the sessions.

I would highly recommend to any school to work with CCB and their expert coaches.' School PE Lead Nov 2020


'Cricket coaching delivered by Mark (Greaves) continues to engage and enthuse the children. In the current climate, with football not being possible on our playgrounds, cricket has taken over! The children always look forward to the sessions as they are fun, engaging, yet challenging for all. I have learnt a lot watching and supporting the delivery. It is always a sad moment when my 6 sessions are up for the year!' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


Primary School Teacher comments about Coaches – Mark (Greaves) and Andy (Dufty)
* great range of activities * good recap of previous sessions * adapted lessons to meet the needs of the children* very calm manner with the children
* punctual *children learnt a lot * clear progression in the children and their skills


'We have been working with Cheshire Cricket Board for many years and have Owen Williamson, Harry (Newton) and Ben (Tomlinson) in school. All sessions are extremely well planned and coaches are excellent at providing specialist coaching and behaviour management. Classes from early Years through to year 6 are outstanding and we plan to continue to work in partnership in the future. I would certainly recommend the coaches to other schools. Children love the curriculum sessions and many sign up to the after school clubs. Over the past few months, we have worked closely with Owen to share risk assessments and plan covid safe sessions. We were extremely impressed with how professionally the sessions have been planned and know our children and staff are safe at all times. We would like to thank Cheshire Cricket Board for the outstanding coaching and opportunities you provide to our children.' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'Great half term of cricket for our pupils organised and run by Stewart Garnett.  The children have been enthused and motivated while learning a range of skills from bowling to batting and everything in between. Thank you. We look forward to the summer festival .' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'I just wanted to say a big thank you for how well you managed the session yesterday under the new guidance. I was a little anxious as you were our first coach this year. All the staff commented on how safe the children were at all times. I have ordered 6 hand sanitiser dispensers to fit around that area- thanks for your input.  I was singing your (Owen Williamson) praises to another Head Teacher who would be very interested to talk to you.'  Head Teacher


'Tom (Birch) was fantastic yesterday; all the kids had a great PE lesson and both staff said they really enjoy the CPD element of watching him deliver. Can't wait to see that develop from both staff and children over the half term.' Teacher


'Thought this afternoon's U19 T20 plate final at Cheadle was a great event.  A super game very well organised and a good presentation by yourself (Gareth Moorhouse) at the end.' Umpire


'A quick line about next half-term. I wonder if we would still be able to have coaching and an after-school club. If so, Monday or Wednesday would suit?
I also just wanted to say that I've been very impressed with Andy (Dufty) with his lessons and his after-school club.' Primary School Teacher Nov 2020


'I just wanted to give some feedback on behalf of our Club on what a great job Andrew Jackson is doing at engaging the kids at our local school. I am Chair at the Club and my wife works at the school - she says that Andrew has been terrific working with the kids and reminding them to come down to teh Club on a Monday when the season starts.
Andrew has also reached out to me to offer support on a number of things which for a small club makes a big difference. Last year we were awarded £1000 from the wet weather fund to buy a new sheet cover for the juniors as well as a Bowdry - it was Andrew who actively encouraged me to apply.
Both my boys have been and are engaged on the courses and have benefitted from coaching and encouragement from your team of coaches.' Club Chair


'Thanks to Graeme Rickman, Mark Greaves and Toby Mullins for all your help and support prior to and during the Foundation Course for Coaches. I enjoyed it and was very impressed with and learnt a lot from all the presentations of the various activities. As a comparison to the football course I did a few years ago they both covered similar themes and ideas but the fact it was so active and we spent so much time presenting different activities and studying others I found it more beneficial.' Coach Oct 2020


'Just a quick note to feed back how fantastic Fran (Francis Yates) as has been at the 3 sessions he has run for us. Well structured sessions, good drills and great rapport with the kids. Ticks all the boxes.' Teacher


'Please pass on our thanks to Chris (Edwards). The first sessions this week were fantastic and the children loved it. Looking forward to the rest of the term!' Teacher


'I'm getting in touch to let you know how well the cricket sessions have been going for the Year 1 classes at Greave. Francis (Yates) has organised lots of different activities that the children have enjoyed, and I have been very impressed with the quality of his teaching. He is so positive and enthusiastic, and the children love working with him. I have picked up some great new ideas too! We are looking forward to the rest of the sessions this term.' Course Participant


'The Coach Support Worker course was really interesting with the right level of theory and practical - Toby (Mullins) and Ben (Tominson) were spot on and a real credit to your organisation.' Teacher


'Year 1 teachers are buzzing about the cricket today and how fantastic Francis Yates was delivering the sessions, especially with those classes- please pass that on to him as it is always good to pass on great feedback!! ' Teacher


'I just want to extend a huge thanks to Kerry (Hartnett) for all her hard work this half term at our School.
Kerry has led three lessons every Thursday for U13 and U14 girls, meaning a total of ninety girls have had access to high quality coaching and a fantastic experience of cricket.
The teaching staff have gone out of their way to commend Kerry on her efforts – the groups that she was working with really enjoyed themselves and have definitely found a love for the sport! Our staff members really enjoyed watching Kerry coach cricket, commenting on how much they have learnt over the past few weeks; such a valuable opportunity for them both in terms of CPD.
On top of this, Kerry also gave up her lunch break without hesitation to lead a Girls Cricket Club. This was attended by over forty girls from years 7, 8 and 9 throughout the course of the half-term, averaging out at around thirty girls per session. For me, this is a testament to Kerry for putting on fun and enjoyable sessions that kept the girls coming back.
I've been seriously impressed and I hope that I can keep up the numbers that she has inspired through school and club cricket. 'Teacher


'Ben (Tyler) has been a credit to Cheshire Cricket Board, he has arrived on time and always been prepared to lead the session with fresh activities each week.
He has worked with a year 3/4 class and also a year 5/6 class.
He has set the tone for each session pointing out any obstacles or dangers to the session.
He ran suitable warm up activities and the sessions themselves were instructive and and clear to understand.
We can see the improvement in throwing and catching techniques and general coordination.
Ben is very enthustiastic and knowledgeable about his subject.
When he is in the hall and organising drills the children are very attentive and thoroughly enjoy each session he has run. He also identified to the teachers children with talent in the sessions. Both the class teachers commented in the last session how engaged the children were and how much they looked forward to each week's lesson' Teacher


'Chris Edwards is doing a fantastic job with our children from Elton primary. They have been having so much fun as well as learning super cricket skills. As PE coordinator, I've even managed pick up some excellent skills from him that I can incorporate in my own lessons.'Teacher

'We thoroughly enjoyed our first end of season CYC awards. It was such a great celebration of achievements and success. I thought the whole event was excellent and Gareth did a great job presenting. The food and wine were good too ! Thank you to everyone involved for their role in organising such a great evening. Look forward to winter courses and next season.'Parent

'Thank you for allowing Marton Primary School to take part in the Chance to Shine Cricket Programme. Scott (Wardley)was exceptional with every single one of the children that he coached, he had a real knowledge of how to get the children engaged (even the ones who did not like cricket) and was so professional in everything that he did.'Teacher

'I just wanted to say how impressed we are with Scott (Wardley)- every teacher has commented on how good he is and all the children are thoroughly enjoying his sessions. I actually told another school about him the other week only to be told they have him too and also said how good he was. I have never come across such a young coach who has impressed so many people.'Teacher

'I have told Scott (Wardley) a couple of times how fabulous he is with the children but I wanted you to hear it too. He deserves some sort of recognition for his marvellous coaching. I am so impressed by his organisation, his delivery, his understanding of those with SEN, his behaviour management etc etc. I could go on and on. I don't think he realises just how good he is, particularly for his age and not having the experience behind him. Some coaches can coach the skills but don't understand how to 'teach'. He certainly understands and is already an outstanding teacher.'Teacher

'On behalf of everyone at our Club I wanted to thank Jessica Lewis for all her hard work helping us to set up the girls section at the club. The feedback from players and parents on her coaching has been unanimously positive and the number of girls we now have training each week is strong evidence of that. In the space of 12 months we have gone from nothing to a large number of girls training each week, two older girls supporting as Activators, the girls having their own Lindow kit and teams entering tournaments. Jessica has played a big role in helping us achieve all that and we are very grateful. Whilst we are just pleased that the girls are enjoying the game, winning the recent u11 competition at Marple was a proud moment for the club and just shows how far the girls have developed in a short space of time.'Club Development Officer

'Scott Wardley kindly came down and helped out last Friday and did a great job, the youngsters loved the session'Club Junior Organiser

'A massive thanks for arranging the visit by Chris Edwards. He was very entertaining and was such a great example to our children. He answered some lovely questions both about his cricket and his experience of his learning disability and showed how much of an amazing ambassador he is for the team and for young people with learning disabilities. Thanks again for this opportunity.'Teacher

'Just to say thank you very much for your time, energy and enthusiasm running the Advanced Coaching course. Both my sons (Nathan and Adam) really enjoyed the course and felt they learned a lot from very knowledgable and supportive coaches. Nathan was absolutely thrilled to be selected for the District course - so thank you for inviting him - and Adam is super-motivated to work hard on his cricket in the hope of getting selected next year!'Parent

'Thank you to Ben Tomlinson and his fellow coaches. Jack absolutely loves the Advanced Coaching sessions and always comes home on a massive high having had great fun and learnt loads. He plays football and rugby and pretty much any sport he can but it's your courses that he looks forward to the most of anything so a massive thank you to you all at Cheshire Cricket Board.'Parent

'Just a note to say how much Charlie enjoyed the wicketkeeping course today. He is wiped out now but he was absolutely thrilled when I spoke to him about it. Please pass on the comments to the coaches from today as I don't have their email addresses on my phone to thank them.'Parent

'Thanks for the Advanced Course feedback, some really interesting observations. What I found really interesting, was when I discussed it with my son and without seeing your scores, he graded himself exactly the same as you did on each discipline, except one. This shows me that you guys really understand the players.'Parent

'Super impressed with the effort into the level of feedback from the Advanced Course'Parent

'Thank you to Ben Tomlinson and Toby Mullins for all their efforts on the Advanced course and the preceding open Autumn course. Our sons really enjoyed the sessions and learned a lot. From a parent's perspective, everything about these courses has been hugely impressive.'Parent

'Just wanted to say my son has loved the Advanced course and I have thoroughly enjoyed watching you guys coach in a view to pick up tips as I did my level 1 course last year and am helping at Macclesfield next season with the juniors. Picked up lots of tips and it’s been very professional.'Parent

'Langley CC were awarded an ECB Small Grant of £1,500 from the Cheshire Cricket Board in March 2015 to build a new BBQ and extend the patio area with additional seating. The project was completed before the start of the season and the club has been able to host BBQs regularly throughout the season raising much needed revenue and run many more social events than in previous seasons. The BBQ has also been used by the local community during the summer holidays and we held an end of season Junior Section party where we cooked over 150 burgers and sausages for the hungry attendees! All in all this has been a fantastic addition to our club, raising revenue, creating social interaction and we are very thankful to the ECB and CCB for their support'Matt Stevens,Lamgley CC

'Winsford C.C. (Cheshire) would like to thank Waitrose and the ECB for its support in enabling the club to improve its facilities by means of the installation of a new kitchen and appliances through the small grant scheme the benefits are real boost to small club and we now have some very happy tea ladies!! 'Andy Cooper, Chairman, Winsford CC

'My lad has attended 2 weeks of the 2015 Cheshire Summer courses and he loved every minute of those 2 weeks. Coaches were exceptional. He does a few sports but his first love is cricket and I cannot say enough about how well run these courses were. Congrats to you and the coaches for doing a fantastic job.'Parent

'Thank you for your assistance in our club receiving a £3000.00 grant under the 2015 small grant scheme. We now have a sparkling, brand new kitchen at the club. Something we have been trying to achieve for years.'Keith Johnston, Newton Cricket Club

'Charlie absolutely loved the Summer Course at Warrington Sports Club. I think the coaches did an amazing job keeping so many children of different ages and abilities engaged. Charlie has already asked if he can do it again next summer! As a parent, it is a real help having a course that your child really enjoys, and the 5pm finish fits in with work so much better than other summer camps that finish at 3pm.'Parent

'We just wanted to let you know how much Finn enjoyed playing district cricket with the West team last week. The camaraderie between the boys was great and Chris Edwards was professional, friendly and made sure that all the boys had a great time playing cricket with lots of positive encouragement. They have all begged him to play together again.
Thank you also for organising the India tour match that Isaac thoroughly enjoyed too. They don't show their emotions as much at their sensitive age but Isaac was thrilled to play even if the Indian boys were a bit good!
It made all those Sunday trips to Nantwich and Crewe worthwhile so thanks again.'Parent

'Jessica Lewis planned exciting games to develop y3/4 cricket skills. The mini games at the end of each session gave the children the opportunity to deliver the skills that they had been taught in a fun an exciting manner. Jess was always punctual and clear with her instructions. She was also approachable and the children never hesitated when asking questions about their performance. The lessons were always well resourced. To enable myself to continue to deliver successful lessons on request Jess promptly sent me an outline of cricket lessons to teach. Not only did she enthuse the children but the staff too.
When I approached the y5/6 teachers about the delivery of the cricket lessons they had received the staff commented on how inclusive the children were and how adaptable Andrew Jackson was to ensure all the children received quality teaching. Andrew also put in alot of time and effort in organising an intra house cricket competition giving y5/6 all the experience to participate in a mini tournament.'
Assistant Headteacher

'I am delighted to inform you that Elworth CC has been successful in its application to Sport England for funds to assist with developing the extended part of the cricket ground and creating 2 new turf cricket pitches for junior cricket. I would like to thank you for the support that you provided for our application and will keep you informed of our progress with the project.'
David Buckley (Chairman, Elworth Cricket Club)

'My thanks to the coaching squad for their time, patience and hard work with the boys during the District courses. Both my boys have thoroughly enjoyed them and learnt a lot which will, if nothing else, improve their games for Lindow this summer. Max, in particular, feels he has come on so much from the cheshire courses - especially with his self confidence - so thank you. Please also pass on my best wishes to the east cheshire squads and I hope they all have a successful summers cricket.'
Parent

'Our winter coaching sessions have gone smoothly with Graeme Rickman taking the lead and the support teachers following. Most impressive is the fact that Graeme's practices cater for all of our boys whatever their ability level and combine quality technical coaching with fun matches etc. Last year was the first time in my years here ( 28 ! ) that we have won three of the four Cheshire cups and as a school we continue to be delighted with the quality of coaching and enthusiasm Graeme shows.'
Teacher, Wirral

'Mark Greaves' coaching sessions in the local schools and the distribution of the posters have improved the turnout at our junior practice sessions at Winsford CC so much our coaches are over the moon with the response . His work is much appreciated by the coaches and they are asking if they can attend some of Mark's training sessions to pick up some valuable skills?'
Andy Cooper Chairman Winsford CC

'My son went on the summer cricket course in Warrington. It was the first time he'd played cricket and enjoyed it immensely. He's keen to continue and so I've been looking for further coaching.'
Jennie Seamans - Parent

'My two American grandsons, Ben and Jack thoroughly enjoyed the Summer cricket course held at Macclesfield Cricket Ground. It was the first time they had tried cricket and knew practically nothing about it but had a great time. Many thanks to all coaching staff. Ben was very pleased to have won a cricket bat and ball and intends to introduce the complexities of cricket to his American friends when they return home!'
Sheila Hancox - Grandparent

'Thank you to the guys for a great week on the Summer Course at Oulton CC. Tom thoroughly enjoyed himself. There was a really nice atmosphere amongst the group and the weather held out despite many grey clouds! It's great to know that the Autumn courses are open to all and I'm considering booking him on to one if we can fit it in.'
Sarah Howard - Parent

'Thanks to all the ‘trainers’, who ran the SUMMER course last week at Macclesfield. Jack has done this for the last three years, but has enjoyed this one the most, big thanks to everyone!'
Laura - Parent

'Thanks to all the ‘trainers’, who ran the SUMMER course last week at Macclesfield. Jack has done this for the last three years, but has enjoyed this one the most, big thanks to everyone!'
Laura - Parent

'We just wanted to say a huge thank you for all your hard work at Malvern with the U13 Girls' cricket team. They seem to have had a very successful time and I know all the girls have enjoyed having Rick Halkon as their coach this year and Charlotte has significantly improved in both skill and confidence. Please can you also pass on our thanks to Sarah McCann who helped with the trip to Malvern.'
Nicky and David Robinson - Parents

'Thank you to the guys for a great week at Oulton CC on the Cheshire Cricket Board Summer Course. My son thoroughly enjoyed himself. There was a really nice atmosphere amongst the group and the weather held out despite many grey clouds! It's great to know that the Autumn courses are open to all and I'm considering booking him on to one if we can fit it in. Many thanks'
Sarah Howard -Parent

'We received an 'outstanding' for the UKCC 1 Course Tutored by the Cheshire Cricket Board staff, so thank you for your co-operation. This is a new process which Newcastle College have asked us to undertake as part of assessment and as part of their OFSTED process.'
Gareth Smith, Manchester Metropolitan University, Sport Development Unit

'Thanks to Gareth Moorhouse for the recent Intro Course for parents at Brooklands. We really enjoyed the sessions due to the clarity of his teaching, enthusiasm and ability to engage everyone.'
David Lewis, Brooklands CC

'Many thanks to Stewart Macleod, Owen Williamson and Toby Mullins for the great coaching sessions at the Club through Easter week. It was great to see the energy and enthusiasm infect the kids. And the group sessions with mixed aged groups were great to watch. They also coped admirably with the threat of hypothermia and frost bite!! '
Stuart Nixon, Rode Park & Lawton CC

'Thank you very much to Gareth Moorhouse for running the Introductory Course at Brooklands over the last 2 weeks. The parents and kids involved really enjoyed the course and will no doubt benefit from the experience. '
Guy Robinson, Brooklands CC

'Thank you Graeme Rickman, Gareth and Bob on the recent UKCC2 coaching course and getting me through it. The modules were good fun and enjoyable-I have learned a lot. The assessments for the log books were a little harder, but after passing I do feel a sense of achievement. I really appreciate all your hard work. '
David Melia, Coach

'Tuesday evenings Club Funding Workshop was two hours well spent. I came away very inspired and felt equipped to tackle bid writing. Many thanks to Steve for sharing his extensive knowledge and also to Mike for organising a such a helpful event. '
Joanne Marrow, Newton CC

'On behalf of Wistaston Cricket Club thank you to Mike Woollard for all the help he has given us over the past few years since getting ClubMark. Through having clubmark we have received grants from ECB & Lottery in the past year for a bowling machine (started to use this winter at the indoor nets) and this week outside. Also we are waiting for new covers to come. Once again your help and advice made it possible.'
Kevin & Pauline Jobbins, Wistaston CC

'As I'm sure you already aware, Appleton have been successful with our ECB small grant application for covers and Bowdry. Thanks very much to Mike Woollard and the rest of your team for help and support.'
Antony Hurst, Chairman, Appleton CC

'Congratulations to the CCB Coaching Team on being awarded the Sky Sports 'Tutor Team of the Year' Award. I was making a comment to a fellow coach recently on how other set ups could benefit from using some of the Cheshire Cricket Model.'
Rick Hughes - Coach, Lymm OPCC

'I completed the Level 1 coaching course at Birkenhead school and passed. I want to thank the Board for organising such a great course. Graeme and the team were fantastic and all the participants really enjoyed the course and the venue.'
Robert Harvey - Coach

'I have today received confirmation that we have been successful in gaining an award of £2000 under the Board's 2013 Small Grants Scheme. I would like to thank you and the Cheshire Board for the support you have given us with this award which will be very important in enabling our continued progress. Many thanks indeed.'
Best wishesStewart Coates - Stockport Trinity CC

Feedback from Parents about the 2012/13 Advanced Courses

'The advice from Gareth Moorhouse has helped with utilising Howzat and involving senior Brooklands players at the junior academy this year and this will continue for 2013 winter training. Cheers for your help Gareth and support to our players, and helping with Clubmark at the club this season - it does make a big difference.'
GC - Brooklands CC

'The children at Samuel Laycock, Tameside’s secondary school for children with moderate learning difficulties, have responded well to Gareth Moorhouse and our staff who have seen him work are impressed. I would say his greatest strengths are the appropriate session content, his engaging nature and the way he kept the pace of the sessions going. He is not fazed when things don’t work out straight away. Keep up the good work. I always measure things against what I would want for my own children and I'm afraid the cricket experiences of my own in school left a lot to be desired. I would have loved my kids to be taught by Gareth.'
EG - Teacher

'Thank you to Graeme Rickman and Gareth Moorhouse for a well run and supportive Coach Education Course. I fully enjoyed all modules of the course which I believe was well structured and delivered in a friendly and informative away. I have found I have been able to use so much of the material you made available and the modules you shared with us I have run at my club. Whenever I had a query and dropped one of you an email you responded really quickly with tips, assistance and ideas of what I could do, very much in a show way (not tell!). Thanks again and I look forward to continue coaching my team over the season and progress my coaching skills over the coming years.'
S - Coach

'Just had to let you know what a brilliant coach Chris Edwards is. He's fantastic with the children and really knows his stuff. He has really impressed everyone at School.'
Cheshire Teacher

'Thank you to Graeme Rickman and Gareth Moorhouse for their support and guidance over the past few months on Coach Ed Course. I have thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience and would recommend it to anybody. I have got so much from the process and have nothing but positive thoughts.'
SMc - Coach

'Thank you for the Advanced and District Coaching courses. They were at a different level than any coaching that M. has previously received.'
WH - Parent

'Thank you to Graeme Rickman and Bob Milne for the recent Coach Ed Course enabling our potential. Evidence based feedback is a part of my working life so.... A well run course with clear objectives and outcomes. Constructive feedback that I will endeavour to apply not only within cricket but elsewhere too. Enjoyable and professional. My only negative is the distance to get to and time required to do the course - out of the coaches hands but I suspect the "dads" who take these courses as compared to the professionals/teachers its a matter of balance of work, home, children, other sports. I for one will speak with my club re doing level 2 as I have 3 boys and love the thought of spending some time with them playing such a great game but maybe a more modular approach, using a web based tool to record and base the evidence within would allow for training of coaches on specific techniques in half day sessions would really appeal to vast numbers of level 1 coaches and keep momentum going. The long term future of cricket is in the grass roots and keeping children within the game. Football is encroaching into the cricket season at a very junior level and that is a threat! Just some thoughts!'
NM - Coach

'Thank you to Graeme Rickman and Gavin Colebourn for the UKCC2 Course. just taken at Wilmslow. I enjoyed the sessions very much and found the 'how to coach' principles of getting players to think for themselves very enlightening. If it stops raining I can now put it all into action however I don't think the U13 group I coach will be quite as well behaved or attentive as my fellow coaches on the course were when pretending to be 13 year olds!!'
SJ - Coach

'Thank you to Graeme Rickman and Gavin Colebourn for fantastic mentoring throughout the UKCC2 Course. It was a really good experience and it will stay with me. I know the others I spoke to felt exactly the same too. Thanks for a great experience even if the Assessment day was a bit nervy!'
VS - Coach

'On behalf of the club, in particular the juniors, can I thank you for the great sessions that Cheshire Cricket Board Development & Coaching Officers Stewart and Owen delivered this week. They dealt with the poor weather well and I have heard nothing but praise for both the group sessions run with the younger age groups in the morning and the one to one sessions in the afternoon for the u15/u17.'
SN - Rode Park & Lawton CC

'Thank you for running the Club Coach Course, which was both enjoyable and a challenge. It's a significant step up from level 2 which is good and I expect every player that I coach now will benefit even more than they did when I was a level 2. I have been on many work based courses on NLP, Project Management, SAP etc and none has provided me with the depth of knowledge, challenge and hands on experience.'
MS - Coach

'Many thanks for the tutoring on the Coach Education course. It has been very enjoyable and I have learnt a lot. I feel much more confident in my ability to coach children and fingers crossed I will be competent in my assessment.'
BJ - Coach

Cheshire Cricket Board Coaches Graeme and Gavin inspire Teachers and give them the confidence to run their own Cricket Sessions at our local schools -
Read More, from one of our Cheshire Teachers

'Really enjoyed the recent Coaching Workshops at Wilmslow. Really informative and has given me new skills to progress my coaching. I now look at players from a more technical and tactical point of view. Great progression from the level 2 and a must if you want to improve your better players.'
PB - Coach

'I really enjoyed the recent Coaching Workshops at Wilmslow. I’m looking forward to putting into practise everything that I learned next season. Thanks to the Cheshire Board's Gavin and Graeme.'
NW - Coach

'I really enjoyed the recent Coaching Workshops at Wilmslow, the content, delivery were really good and I feel as though a made new friends on the course. The CDWs are a really good way to hone coaching skills before the start of a new cricket season and also to learn new ones - video analysis training means test match cricket takes on a new dimension and also much better feedback to our players. I enjoyed learning about what makes a good coach during the small group exercises during the third weekend, managing teams. We all came up with interesting points of view and learned a lot from each other.'
RB - Coach

'Thank you for all your excellent work in providing high quality cricket courses in the Cheshire area'
CH - Parent

'E really enjoyed thr 2011 Autumn Course at Bridgewater and has learned new skills. His confidence has grown and socially he is getting better - he is only six years old and can be very quiet, so I think the course has helped in that way. The coaching was of a very good standard, E is really looking forward to the next one.'
SB - Parent

'A fantastic 2011 Autumn Course at Bridgewater. Great mix of technical, fitness and fun activities. Excellent energy throughout all sessions. The main coach (Gareth) pitched it very well for this age group and everyone seemed to enjoy it. Thank you, and see you again next time.'
NL - Parent

'S has really enjoyed the2011 Autumn Course at Bridgewater. It has really helped him to develop his skills in a fun environment. He can't wait for the next course.'
CW - Parent

'The 2011 Autumn Course at Wilmslow was easy to book online. Both my boys said they enjoyed the course, which was a good foundation course. The coaches displayed good technical skills and knowledge, and the boys had plenty of opportunities to bat in game and net scenarios.'
RO - Parent

'J really enjoyed the 2011 Autumn Course at Wilmslow. The facility is great (although it would be nice if there was a viewing area for parents), and from what I have seen it looked like a combination of great fun and skills practice. Thank you for the chance to continue cricket training at this time of year.'
JB - Parent

'T has enjoyed the 2011 Autumn Course at Wilmslow enormously. He is very keen now to play more cricket and we have put his name down for winter nets at a local club. The course seems to have taught skills in a clear and structured way and T's knowledge and understanding of the game has improved dramatically – he has developed techniques that he just didn't have previously. He also found the course and the coaches good fun, and has needed no persuading to go along each week.'
PL - Parent

'The 2011 Autumn Course at Wilmslow had a good variety of drills, and those used in the warm-up were both fun and competitive. The nets were divided into appropriate age/ability levels with a coach in each lane.'
PK - Parent

'Just a brief note of appreciation for a quite superb week of cricket for Cheshire U16s on Jersey 2011. The boys were an absolute credit to the Board and the whole tournament was extremely well organised, hosted on good quality grounds and producing compelling cricket all week long. I am sure you will not be surprised to hear that Bernie and Stewart fostered an atmosphere of competitive, winning cricket and instilled a team ethic that simply grew stronger with each passing day. All in all, a resounding triumph for Cheshire cricket and a delight to see such a strong unit of players, management and even parents!'
DS - Parent

'A huge thank you to Bernie, Stewart and Sheila for organising a perfect week for Cheshire U16s on Jersey. The boys performed superbly and proved Cheshire Youth Cricket is indeed flourishing. The timing of the tournament is just right, after a hard GCSE year it is a just reward for their efforts. After such a roaring success I hope Cheshire U16s will participate in this tournament for many years to come.'
P&AJ - Parents

'Thank you to Cheshire Youth Cricket and in particular Stewart Macleod and Bernie Bishop for a fantastic week of cricket in Jersey for Cheshire U16s. The players had a superb tournament and all honesty were the better side overall, but just fell short of bringing the cup home. The level of intensity generated by playing so many games over 5 days provided some excellent and very exciting cricket against quality opposition. It really was a great cricket experience for the boys and their team spirit was wonderful to watch as it grew through the week which will set them up very nicely for next year. A very worthwhile addition to the under 16 season which is a little shallow of fixtures due to GCSE’s etc.'
C&JP - Parents

'We have just returned from a week watching the U16's side play in the Standard Bank tournament in Jersey. We had a great week watching an entertaining and high standard of cricket. The boys were well behaved and were a credit to Cheshire cricket. It was a great experience for our boys to play counties they do not normally play. We were unfortunate to be runners up as we played some great cricket and deserved to win - hopefully we will return next year and win.'
J&MT - Parents

'My son really enjoyed the 2011 summer coaching week at Toft and is really proud of learning new skills. He can't wait to do more and I'm sure he will be signing up for the autumn training. A credit to the coaches for a great job and generating the enthusiasm from the children.'
GP - Parent

Feedback from Schools receiving Coaching via Prince's Trust

Feedback from Parents whose Children represented their District during the District Festival June 2011

'Thank you from all at Hollingworth Cricket Club for your support and help in achieving our Sport England grant.'
Mo - Hollingworth Cricket Club

'I am writing on behalf of Tytherington High School to formally thank Cheshire Cricket Board for their assistance with our successful bid for a non turf pitch under the Chance to Shine initiative.'
DF - Tytherington High School - read DF's letter

'I haven't had a chance to thank Stewart Macleod and his team for the excellent work that they did for us during the Easter holidays. Obviously the delay in the completion of our nets limited the options, but they all did a great job with the kids and the facilities available to them. Everyone I have spoken to thoroughly enjoyed their time here with the coaches.'
SN - Nantwich CC

'I just wanted to say a massive thank you to Gareth Moorhouse for organising Newton's first ever Kwik Cricket competition for local schools. The event was a success, and we attracted several new members in the process. We are now hopeful of getting a team together in the U11 league, after it looked like we would not have enough players. Thanks again to Gareth and the Cheshire Cricket Board for their continued support.'
JM - Newton CC

Feedback from Parents whose Children attended the Cheshire Cricket Board's 2010/11 Winter Coaching Courses

'The season starts today and we are ready to enjoy. For the past four years we have been so busy completing building work throughout the winter that the cricket season was almost a hindrance. Now we can enjoy our new facilities which this winter won a Civic Trust Design Award -congratulations to our Architect, Richard Leng. Many thanks to all at the ECB who helped and supported us at all times. In particular Richard Newton and Mike Woollard at Cheshire and Dan Musson at Old Trafford. Enjoy the season.'
Alan Smith, Compstall CC

'Thank you to Owen Williamson, Coaching & Development Officer for the curriculum cricket coaching which he delivered to our Primary School children. The children thoroughly enjoyed the varied sessions involving skills practise and fun games. Their skills have already progressed and they have been keen to find when they can do it again. I have seen an increase in the children practising their cricket skills during play and lunch times (both from the boys and girls). Owen's professional attitude and excellent coaching has enabled the children to develop skills and a love for the game of cricket. The staff have also commented how much they have enjoyed and learned from the sessions.'
DP - Teacher, Heswall

'I really enjoyed (the coaching masterclass) at Nantwich. I picked up a load of new ideas and it's good to learn how you (the coaches) set up a session and deliver it. I thought the 5 different bowling platforms were really good and challenging, just wish I was young again! I also thought the Howzat resource was a great tool and can only bolster your overall knowledge – I will definitely being using that. Thanks again and I look forward to the June workshop.'
MB - Coach, Nantwich CC

'My class enjoys the cricket lessons from Mark Greaves each week. The children look forward to a Tuesday afternoon and are responding so well to the coaching sessions, I can already see an improvement in many of them.'
TB - Teacher, Antrobus St Mark's

'The Groundsmen Association's Seminar at Hawk Green CC was interesting and very useful and demonstrates the valuable assistance our Cheshire Clubs continue to receive from the Cheshire Cricket Board.'
MB - Derbyshire and Cheshire Cricket League

'Everyone present found the Groundsmen Association's Seminar at Hawk Green CC both interesting and very useful and demonstrates the valuable assistance that our Cheshire Clubs continue to receive from the Cheshire Cricket Board.'
MB - Derbyshire and Cheshire Cricket League.

'THANKS THANKS THANKS for the U15 Girls Indoor Comp at Crewe - WELL ORGANISED....WELL OFFICIATED....GOOD FRIENDLY ATMOSPHERE... EVERYONE HELPFUL...GREAT, WELL DONE'
TD - Marple Hall School

'My daughter is LOVING the Excellence course - Sundays don't come round quick enough ! We're really appreciating all the hard work you put in with the children'
VH - Parent

'Thank you to Graeme Rickman and Gavin Colebournfor running the UKCC2 Coaching Course so well. Thought yourself and Gavin were absolutely top draw. I enjoyed every minute of it and can only hope I do you both justice by passing the course with flying coloursand gain my coaching certificate. To sum it up with a coach's cliche...."You nailed it !" '
Jonny Hackett - Heaton Mersey CC

'Thank you to the Cheshire Cricket Board and Mike Woollard Club Development Manager for their help with a series of projects over the last 3 years to renovate our club facilities. You have provided a large number of references, all supplied promptly (often to meet a deadline). As a result we have been successful in gaining funding for a new roller from ECB, new nets from ECB, wicket covers and sightscreens from Sport England, a showers/changing room renovation grant from Awards for All, new doors from CCA Grassroots and are pending (with some optimism decisions from WREN and BIFFA for significant grants to replace our kitchen and roof.
With your help, our Club is piece by piece, being transformed. It is appreciated.'
Andy Bennion – Asst Sec, Alvanley CC

'Thank you to Mike Woollard, Cheshire's Club Development Manager for taking the time to come to see us. It's reassuring to know there are people out there willing to help turn a good club into a great one.'
James Beech, Westminster Park CC

'I am enjoying very much Graeme Rickman's leadership of the two coaching courses I have been attending this Autumn/Winter. Graeme brings to his tutoring an effective blend of fun, knowledge, relaxation and firmness, all at just the right pace. If I sound like an ancient teacher, it is only because I was one!!
JRAC, Bramhall CC

'My little boy is really enjoying the Advanced Coaching Sessions at Tytherington and looks forward to his visits each week. We also like Gareth's Blog on the website.'
David Elms, Parent

'On behalf of our club please accept our thanks for your help with the funding application for replacing our nets and particularly your help over the years, providing direction for our development both in terms of junior players and facilities. This has only been to the long term benefit of the club.'
Stuart Nixon, Rode Park & Lawton CC

'May I say how supportive the Cheshire Cricket Board has been with our club, and to thank Mike Woollard for his help and consideration in processing our application for a 3 Bay Net Facility so quickly.'
Jayne Worsdale - Secretary, Rode Park & Lawton CC

'Gareth Moorhouse had an excellent manner with the children and generated great enthusiasm for the sport whilst also demanding and maintaining good discipline. Excellent organisation of resources. His lessons were well-planned, pitched at the right level and geared to different abilities. Lots of fun activities. He had a good mix of activities for improving a range of skills as well as playing full games.'
Chris Bounds - Grappenhall Heys Primary School

'In sending you a copy of my annual report and grounds report to our Club AGM I wish to thank everyone at Cheshire Cricket Board and in particular Mike Woollard and Gavin Colebourn for all your support in maintaining Stockport Georgians as a Cheshire Focus Club - it would be an awful lot harder and nowhere near as good without your efforts.'
Trevor Bailey - Junior's Organiser, Stockport Georgians CC

'Gareth Moorhouse's coaching to our Year 3 and Year 4 pupils has been described by the Teachers as some of the best sports coaching we've ever had at the school. The children thoroughly enjoyed it and the teachers were extremely impressed by his manner with the children. The excellent skills drills were innovative, highly effective, and great fun for the children. We are extremely grateful for the opportunity to have been involved in the coaching and are looking forward to Gareth's coaching sessions with our Year 5 and 6 pupils after the Christmas break.'
Rob Blanchet - Twiss Green Primary, Culcheth

'Tutors Graeme Rickman and Dave Parry did an excellent job on the Coach Development Workshop at Wilmslow - all good stuff, very well pitched and managed. All very good food for thought but I think that getting some structure/thought/purpose into video analysis will make a particularly big difference, and that the same process will inform "eyeball analysis" a lot too! We've also got some very good 'keepers who do get neglected in time honoured fashion so that session was very useful and should spread some good practice (in all senses). The tactical/preparation sessions were a very appropriate step on from Level 2 - from "what to/how to" to "why to" (?) if that works'
Mike Robinson - Coach

'Thank you to Gareth Moorhouse for the cricket inset at Lymm High School last friday. The games were really good and I look forward to using them in my own delivery.'
Mike Dore - Lymm High School

'The Community Cricket Coach, Gavin Colebourn has worked with both our year 6 classes throughout the term as well as running a one off cricket fun morning with year 5s from another feeder school. We have been delighted with this addition to our games curriculum. The sessions have been well received by the children providing great skills practise, fun fitness activities and small competitive opportunities. Lots of the children have told us that they have really enjoyed the sessions and find cricket a fun sport, looking forward to the lesson each week. The teachers observing the session say they picked up lots of ideas on how to deliver cricket that they will try in future. They all thought the sessions were well planned and that the children progressed over the course of the sessions. We were also really pleased that the final session involved an intra school competition for the children which will be a useful addition to our PESSYP return next summer.'
Clare Elsegood - PE Coordinator - Woodley Primary School

'Thank you to Club Development Officer Mike Woollard for his constant help and support towards us gaining Clubmark Accreditation. He was always avaialable to advise and inform whenever we needed it. The local Development Forum was also a help in the way you could hear at first hand the progress of other clubs in our immediate area.'
Max Funke - Secretary, Malpas CC

'Thanks to the Cheshire County Cricket Board and Club for its input and help during the re-developement of our club following the fire in 2008. With the aid of the grant from the ECB our club is now up and running and hopefully will go from strength to strength.'
Stuart Goodwin - President, Hawk Green CC

'Ashton on Mersey Cricket Club has received a huge amount of support from the Cheshire Cricket Board in recent years, most notably their help in making a successful application to the ECB in association with Sport England for 75% funding towards a £32,000 new 3 lane net facility.
This was constructed by Verde Sports and completed in March 2010 with the formal opening taking place at our President's Day function in September 2010. The help of both Mike Woollard and Dan Musson were instrumental in advising us along the process. With our square use at saturation point previously, the new facility has been vital to seniors and particularly our 80 junior members with our 11 qualified coaches now able to offer a more structured and targeted development framework.
The CCB has also helped us secure funding for a much needed new square mower in 2009 as well as guiding us through the process for Clubmark (renewed 2009) and annual completion of the Club Development Plan. '
Mark P Robinson - Secretary, Ashton on Mersey CC

'Just a note to thank Stewart Macloed and his colleagues at the Cheshire Cricket Development Scheme for the support and encouragement given to Stuart during the past year. This has obviously paid dividends, since he was top of the batting averages for both Oulton Park U15s (County League) and Bunbury U15s (SCJCL) this season, as well as batting very well for the South Cheshire District team. He is very much looking forward to attending the Cheshire Cricket Board's Coaching sessions again this winter. '
Roger Swift - Parent

'As a consequence of the coaching the children in years 4, 5 and 6 received from Gareth Moorhouse the Board's Coaching & Development Officer, we now have many more children linked to local cricket clubs, including a number of girls. Furthermore, the school took part in World Cricket Day during the summer term which proved to be very enjoyable. Both the girls and mixed cricket teams also enjoyed immensely the Kwik cricket tournaments and it was touching to see children, who do not always enjoy success in other sports, taking the field with a sense of pride. Most noticeably, I believe the greatest impact on the children is in their attitude to fair play, good sportsmanship and respect for others involved in the game. This is an area which will impact on all aspects of sport, both within and outside of school, and ensure children develop the correct attitude to success and failure. Finally, the teacher training Greth provided in the summer term has given me the confidence to diseminate cricketing skills to other members of staff during INSET.'
Lisa -(Year 5 Teacher) Gorse Hall Primary School, Stalybridge

'Since Gareth Moorhouse the Board's Coaching & Development Officer has been at our Club we have seen an increase in membership and our junior section has gone from strength to strength. His motivation and work ethic is excellent. Whenever we have needed assistance he has always made himself available. Before he came along our Committee were somewhat sceptical about the benefits of attaining (and maintaining) Clubmark. They fully understood the need to create a culture of a safe environment for kids and bought into the need to demonstrate this to new, as well as existing, members. But the question remained "what do we get out of this?" Over the past few years the junior committee has been able to fully demonstrate the benefits of working with the Cheshire Cricket Board and they are now fully converted, indeed, raising the issue of Clubmark and junior development at each meeting.'
Tony Bowie - Junior Coach and School Liaison, Hollingworth CC

'The coaching that the children received last year from Gareth Moorhouse was great. The children really benefitted from a qualified coach taking the sessions, which led to an increase in the children's level of ability. During the lessons it was great to see the participation of children at all levels. It also helped myself and other staff involved as part of our own professional development in this area. The competitions organised enabled the children the opportunity to play against other children, but also an opportunity for them to meet local coaches which in turn encouraged quite a few children to take up cricket out of school time. Thanks again Gareth'
Tracey Brereton - Mottram C of E Primary

'A huge 'thanks' to Gareth Moorhouse for his hard work, enthusiasm, motivation and coaching skills which made the Cheshire Girls U15 squad 2010 season so enjoyable and rewarding. It was a real pleasure to watch the girls develop their cricket individually and collectively as a squad with fantastic 'Team spirit'.'
Parent, Cheshire Girls U15's

'Really sorry that Colin Grindey will not be Coaching at our School next term; a really big thank you for all the work that you have done with our pupils, it has been greatly appreciated by all those involved. I have no doubt that we will see you again and obviously Mark Greaves is well known to us and, I am sure will do a good job. All the very best in your new area Colin.'
Mark and all the PE staff at Leftwich.

'Colin Grindey has been a real inspiration in my Primary School and encouraging the girls at St Nicholas to develop their Cricket skills. My Pavilion Festival a few years ago is an excellent lasting memory.'
Nic Simms, St Nicholas Catholic High School

'Graeme Rickman has been excellent. Very positive attitude, great with the kids, arrives early and gets everything set up. I am delighted. Very keen that Graham remains with us next year and beyond.'
Richard Lytollis, Birkenhead School

'Coaching & Development Officer, Fred Slater has been coming into our school for a number of years. He works with a range of ages across KS2 on a wednesday morning. The staff and the children adore Fred. He is friendly, approachable, reliable and fantastic with the kids.'
Jen Church Bollinbrook Primary School (PE coordinator)

'We are now in our 3rd year with Chance to Shine and could not be happier. I cannot speak highly enough about Coaching & Development Officer, Gavin Colebourn. He is probably the best sports coach that I have seen in school. He is organised, easy to contact and most importantly is fantastic with the children. There is no doubt that the cricketing skills of our children are improving - in fact one boy now plays for Cheshire and many others play regularly at Heaton Mersey Cricket Club. The children play cricket every lunchtime in an organised fashion and love it. Our school takes part in all the competitions and seems to do ok. It is still difficult for teachers to go on courses as there is a time implication especially when it involves after school, but by watching Gavin every teacher has picked up ideas for teaching cricket.'
Lee McAlpine Broadstone Hall Primary School, Stockport

'Coaching & Development Officer, Fred Slater is absolutely brilliant. He is always reliable and has a very good rapour with the children. He has well planned lessons and varies the content depending on the type of class, the weather conditions and the situation in school. He is also able to fully appreciate the demands placed on school and the need to be flexible and collaborative. We are all really grateful for the work Fred does in our school and the support he shows to the children.'
Simon Birtwistle (Dean Valley Primary School)

'We at Broomfields are so please with the quality and the impact of the work that Bob Milne is doing with our children. He makes the cricket sessions with all year groups and children extremely interesting and enjoyable. The children really look forward to his sessions, learn and improve many cricketing skills through supportive feedback to them all and learn to be competitive in a sportsmanlike manner. Bob has gone to the trouble of setting up an interschool competition where classes within year groups compete against each other by how many points that can generate in the various sessions throughout the half term – the children thoroughly enjoy this side of it. The after school club which he runs is successful and the children love trying to improve their skills and play competitive cricket. I hope this explains how much we value Bob’s input into cricket at Broomfields Junior School.'
Rachel Morris Deputy Headteacher Broomfields Junior School

'Coaching & Development Officer, Fred Slater comes into our school each week to work with the children in both Key Stages. He coaches the children following the Chance to Shine Programme and organises related cricket skills games. We are delighted that he is able to come into our school and the children really love his lessons and activities. As we are a very small school the staff also greatly value the expertise which he brings. We hope that Fred will be able to continue working with us here at Chelford next year.'
Alison Scott Headteacher Chelford CE Primary School

'I’ve noticed a distinct improvement in a number of the boys who attended the Winter Nets and the metamorphosis of one of the boys from a mundane seamer into an off-spinner with variety is pleasing and testament to the quality of the work you, and the rest of the coaching team, have done.'
Observation from a Parent in a note to Bob Milne, Development & Coaching Officer

'Coaching & Development Officer, Colin Grindey does cricket skills with our Yr 5 / 6 children allowing those who would not normally have access to a different sport a chance to show their ability and try out a sport using knowledge from a professional rather than just a member of staff. From the staff's point of view we can assess the children whilst watching and also gain knowledge ourselves to be able to continue once Colin has left. He is able to identify children with exceptional skills that then enables us to chose a team to represent the school in a local tournament. Colin has also offered after school clubs to other year groups.'
Jo Meyer PLT Hartford Manor CP School

'Coaching & Development Officerm, Fred Slatercomes every Friday morning teaching cricket to both Year 5 and 6 on an alternate basis. He's absolutely fantastic! The children love his lessons, work really hard and we can see a big difference in their LTAD and cricket skills. Some children also train at Bollington and Macc CC. We are really grateful for the funding for this to happen.'
Sally Garnett School Bursar Dean Valley CP School

'Coaching & Development Officer, Gareth Moorhouse took over the Chance to Shine coaching in our area last year. He delivered some curriculum sessions as well as after school clubs. Our school staff were encouraged to join him during his coaching sessions and I was able to work along side him during the after school sessions. At the end of his time with us, I was able to continue with the after school cricket club. The fact that Gareth was coaching some children also gave me the opportunity to offer a girls' cricket club after school. This was well attended and, for the first time, we were able to field a girls' cricket team which took part in matches against local schools. We also had more boys playing competitive cricket last year than in previous years and more games were played against other schools. This year Gareth is doing a lunchtime club for us that is being well attended. We also have a coach from our local cricket club who has offered to join him at lunchtime and help me with the after school club. This will again give us the chance to offer high quality coaching to a greater number of children. I have been greatly impressed by the enthusiasm and quality of all the sessions. Gareth's involvement with our school has certainly raised the profile of cricket. Although we always had cricket clubs after school in the past, we now have more players and they have more opportunity to play competitively, either against other schools or in intra school games. I hope that this excellent scheme is able to continue in the future.'
Kevin Beattie (PE Coordinator Gee Cross Holy Trinity C of E Primary School)

'Thank you for the chance to take part in the Chance to Shine scheme for the last 3 years which from our point of view has been a great success. We have been very fortunate in having Coaching & Development Officer, Gavin Colbourne as our coach. He is a talented and very inspiring man who engages the children well, encourages and praises them and delivers fantastic lessons. Children have participated in more competitions and have expressed interest in joining local clubs. Staff have learnt a great deal from Gavin's lessons and are now more confident in teaching cricket.'
Sarah Berry PE co-ordinator St George's C of E Primary School Stockport

'We have been lucky enough to have Coaching & Development Officer, Matthew Dawson spend an afternoon each week with the 3 x Year 6 classes on a Monday and the 3 x Year 5 classes on a Wednesday. All the children really enjoy these coaching sessions and games and have all responded very positively - those who are less conbfident in sport have benefitted from the inclusive nature of the various games and there has been a real sense of team support during the different drills and games. Also there has been lots of different activities for the children to do - and so - even though we have been having the sessions since January they are still learning new drills and games - as well as having the chance to practice some of the ones they have already done. Therefore I would say that the Chance to Shine scheme has been incredibly succesful in engaging children in cricket - as there is still an excitement when they remember that it's cricket in the afternoon! As a teacher being involved in the sessions - I have personally benefitted from watching some of the different drills and games that - although I attended the coaching course last year - to see it in action first hand has meant that I now am able to run similar sessions when Matthew is unavailable. Furthermore - we have been lucky enough to organise an after-school club for 20 x Year 6's on a Wednesday afternoon - some of the children involved are quite confident cricketers already and some are very new to the sport and all have benefitted greatly form the advanced skills coaching and games. Overall I would like to thank the Cheshire Cricket Board and those involved for organising the scheme as we as a school have benefitted greatly - it has been successful in all its aims and I would definitely like to continue close links with the scheme next year!'
Andrew Foden Hursthead Junior School Cheadle Hulme

'Thanks to Tutors, Graeme Rickman and Mike Fellfor getting us all up to scratch for the UKCC2 assessment! The course progressed very well from start to finish and provided a series of building blocks to take into our supported coaching sessions and final assessment. The Coaching Bugs broke down the necessary information into easily understood sections which, when put together, allowed us to work through a coaching session from start to finish. Week 8 when we each took a session with feedback from the Tutors was very valuable. The First Aid and Child Protection modules were interesting but the 'ice breaker' quiz in the First Aid went on too long. All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed the course and am already putting it to good use with the Port Sunlight U11s team.'
Jed Manley, Coach, Port Sunlight CC

' We have had Coaching & Development Officer, Mark Greaves in school working with the children and would like to say the teacher whose class he has worked with wanted to say that he is fantastic!! The kids have loved the sessions, he has a lovely way with the children and great ideas which we as a school can take on board. Other teachers now want him to work with their classes. The Chance to Shine Scheme is of great benefit to our school pupils and staff alike. '
Madeleine Ward, Upton CC and St. Josephs Catholic Primary Birkenhead

'I would like to thank Graeme Rickman and Mike Fell for taking the UKCC2 course at Birkenhead High School. The whole course was very interesting and enlightening and I found it very useful concentrating on how to teach rather than just what to teach. Many of the "how to teach" techniques were already familiar to me and, indeed, I used them but without realising it. What the course did do was crystallise these techniques and present them in a structured way which, when applied, made much more sense. One of the new techniques that I learnt and felt was really important, yet so obvious, was not to talk over a demonstration as it would give the players too much to concentrate on. Indeed, this was a theme throughout the cause to the extent that we would breakdown the coaching points into small, easily digestible, "portions". The course was excellent, informative and fun. Graeme and Mike worked well as a team, explained what you were doing clearly, were approachable and knowledgeable.'
Andy Morrison, Coach

'Coaching & Development Officer, Colin Grindey has been coming to our School regularly over the last two years. His coaching has had a very positive effect and has raised the profile of the game such that it is now one of the most popular games at playtime and for PE. The coaching activities are both fun and challenging and have really helped improve the confidence of the children especially girls in all aspects of the game. The children are always excited when Colin is due in as they know they are in for a fast paced and exciting PE lesson. He is always calm and encouraging, showing the children ways to improve techniques as well as making things more difficult for those who play cricket more regularly for a community team. I hope he will continue to be a very welcome presence next year.'
Angela Millar, PLT, St Wilfrid's Catholic Primary School

'Thanks to Coaching & Development Officer, Gareth Moorhouse, the children have really enjoyed the Cricket Coaching. Gareth has really changed their minds about cricket and the staff have been very positive about the coaching and have asked for extra PE sessions to go out and do some more on their own. The children at first pulled a face at cricket, apparently because they said if you can't hit the ball you don't really do anything and you stand around a lot. Their attitude has completely reversed.'
Emma Roberts, Pinfold Primary, Hattersley

'We would just like to say how much our son (Callum Newman-Scott) enjoyed his Whit Half Term course at Sandbach Cricket Club. He hasn't stopped talking about and thought very highly of the Coaches. Thank you vey much.'
Karen Scott, Parent

'We are in our second year of the Chance to Shine initiative which I feel is now having a great impact on cricket in this school. We have a large number of children attending our after school club and also have boys who have joined Irby CC. The success is due partly due to the great new ideas and activities which this initiative has now introduced making cricket a far more enjoyable activity but also to the coaches we have had. Graeme Rickman started the idea off very positively and his replacement Mark Greaves has proved to be outstanding. His relationship with all the children is really positive, they are enthusiastic and highy motivated and his range of warm ups and activities is excellent. I am very impressed with what he has achieved in the short time he has been with us. I realy feel that this scheme is certainly one of the best sporting initiatives I have been involved with and one that is really benefitting a large number of children.'
Dave Jones, PE Teacher, Thingwall Primary School, Wirral

'Angus played today against Shropshire as Cheshire wicketkeeper. He got 2 catches, 1 stumping and 4 run outs. He said the stumping batsman asked him how did he do it !? Angus said it was all down to Coaching & Development Officer, Matthew Dawson's keeping coaching session. '
Lorraine Muir, Parent

'We are a small Church of England Primary School who for the past two years have benefitted from the Chance to Shine program. We have enjoyed expert coaching from Coach Education Manager, Graeme Rickman and Coaching & Development Officer, Mark Greaves. The children have gained in confidence and sportsmanship as well as the obvious development of their throwing/catching, fielding and striking skills. The children gain so much more from sessions when they are taught by experts who are so enthusiastic. Several children have joined the local cricket club as a result of the program many of whom have not shown much interest in sport up to now. We also had an after school cricket club during the summer term and took a team to the primary schools festival. Thank you for making this all possible and for enriching the sport experience we deliver in our school.'
Sally Tempest, P.E Coordinator, Dawpool Primary School, Wirral

'Thanks to Coaching & Development Officer, Gareth Moorhouse for his help and committment in both our junior coaching and club mark. I have attended local schools with Gareth to set up the Club Links and through this and his continued good work we are seeing numbers rise. The kids look forward to him coming and feed off his enthusiasm.'
Nigel Corless Stalybridge St Pauls CC

'The Cheshire Cricket Board has been a great help to us in gaining Clubmark and Focus Club status, and in our development both on and off of the field since. Coaching & Development Officer, Colin Grindey is a friendly and supportive mentor to our coaches and provides invaluable assistance in completing our annual Clubmark renewal and Development Plan. Recently we were fortunate enough to obtain a substantial grant from the ECB for a new three lane net system, and both Colin and Mike Woollard were enormously helpful and supportive at every stage of the process. Without the CCB’s help over the last five years the developments that have taken place at the club in junior and senior cricket, as well as improvements to the ground would not have been possible.'
Adrian Burden, Vice Chairman, Kingsley Cricket Club

'We are a small club with very limited resources and we have really benefitted from the work of Coaching & Development Officer, Gavin Colbourne in setting up and running an introduction to coaching course for some of our parents. He and Club Development Officer, Mike Woollard have also been incredibly supportive in assuring that we have achieved and maintained our Clubmark status and a very valuable source of advice and guidance. Small clubs like ours really need the support we get from the likes of these guys and your organisation.'
Chris Burnett, Junior Cricket Manager, Cheadle Hulme Ladybridge Cricket Club.

'My son Mark attended the Children's Summer Course at Stockport CC last week. Mark really enjoyed the week. There seemed to be lots of challenges and different things to do. It was no trouble getting him up in the mornings! He was all for finding another week so he could go again. The venue was great too, especially as there was somewhere inside to play cricket on the wet days. Please convey my thanks to the coaches and to the Cheshire Cricket Board for making weeks like this possible.'
Alison Lever, Parent.

'I just wanted to send you some word of thanks for the Children's Summer Course at Neston CC last month which my son attended. Despite the inclement weather the Coaching Team did a fantastic job in keeping the children entertained along with teaching the skills vital to produce good young cricketers for the future. Without exception Brian enjoyed everyday he attended, he is very much looking forward to rejoining you all at the end of September at Birkenhead.'
Simon Davies, Parent.

'2010 has been a successful year for Broadbottom Cricket Club both on and off the field. Both senior sides are top of their respective divisions and the number of juniors continues to rise. We have now reached capacity at the youngest age group (kids club/under 9s) which reflects our strong links with the local primary schools. We have been very pleased with the input and enthusiasm of Cheshire's Coaching and Development Officer, Gareth Moorhouse, who has been with us for a second summer. I believe his presence has inspired some of the younger club members to advance their own coaching skills, many of whom have just completed UKCC2 assessments and are working with our juniors. I welcome the ongoing support Cheshire have provided with regards to club administration, particularly the annual health check for Club Mark and the club development plan. '
Bob Parry, Broadbottom CC.

'We have benefitted greatly from Coaching & Development Offocer, Gareth Moorhouse getting actively involved in the coaching of our juniors. He is very proactive and gives them lots of interesting things to do. I think the Cheshire Development Officers should continue this 'hands on' approach with local clubs. We were delighted to be selected as the local Chance to Shine Club, bringing more children from the local area into the club. This has also helped our junior coordinator Mike Scott to develop his skills whilst working in a schools environment. We are very happy with the support we receive from Cheshire Cricket Board.'
Phil Mellor, Mottram CC.

'My son enjoys the Summer Courses, never wanting them to end. He enjoys learning new skills, challenges and games. It is also good that the coaches pick up on various points where the players can improve. My son Ryan has been telling me how they have helped him to try and improve his bowling action.'
K Waterhouse, Parent.

'A great week at the Summer Coaching Camp. Mason has learned such a lot this week and has really enjoyed himself. He has really improved too. Many thanks'
Joanne Thomas, Parent.

'Jacob has really enjoyed the Summer Coaching week. He can’t think of anything to tell you which could have been better! We will be back, thanks!'
Jo Lockett, Parent.

'Coaching & Development Officer Gareth Moorhouse has made a massive impression on both children and staff in our school. We are no longer afraid to have a go at coaching cricket or running an after school club. Hopefully this will continue for he he has imparted us with the knowledge to have a go at teaching cricket, and also the confidence to enter tournaments in our locality.'
Debbie Carter, Learning Mentor Oakfield Primary School.

'The Summer Coaching Course at Bowdon was fantastic and well organised. The fact that both my boys wanted to go each day after 8 hours of cricket because they wanted to learn more is awesome!'
Susan J. Agnew, Parent.

'The Summer Coaching Course at Bowdon was a very enjoyable week - excellent Coaches and Fun.'
Louise Beacock, Parent.

'My son really enjoyed the Summer Coaching Course at Bowdon. He loved achieving the Bronze Award and wants to work towards his Silver. He will definitely attend again'
Susan Dunleavy, Parent.

'The Summer Coaching Course at Bowdon was a very enjoyable week, wirth excellent Coaches and Fun.'
Louise Beacock, Parent.

'Both our boys loved the Summer Coaching Course and are desperate for me to sign them up quickly for the Autumn Course.'
Joanne Webster, Parent.

'As always the lads loved the Summer Coaching Course at Poynton.'
Jo Mason, Parent.

'Thoroughly enjoyed the challenge and enthusiasm of the coaches at the Summer Coaching Course at Poynton.'
David Mulholland, Parent.

'My son really enjoyed the Summer Coaching Course at Poynton. He learned a lot and enjoyed the matches'
Carolyn Sharrocks, Parent.

'My son thoroughly enjoyed the Summer Coaching Course at Poynton and learnt a lot of new thongs about the game'
Vanessa Graham, Parent.

'My daughter really enjoyed the week at the Summer Coaching Course at Poynton. She got a lot out of it. Wish there was a Course just for girls'
Vesna Higginbottom, Parent.

'My son has thoroughly enjoyed the Summer Coaching Course at Poynton. He found it fun and informative, and will definitely be a candidate for next year.'
Lesley Cox, Parent.

'Summer Coaching Course at Poynton. Cricket Great. Weather Not. Enjoyment Yes!'
Julie Earith, Parent.

'We are delighted with the work of Cheshire's Coaching & Development Officer, Gareth Moorhouse. We feel we have developed as a club because of the support he has been able to give us, both on and off the field. When I took over the management of the Clubmark process this year I wasn't sure what to expect, but Gareth put me at ease straight away. The most important thing is that the kids love him, and they always ask when he is next coming to visit us. That stems from the hard work he has put in with the schools, and we have benefitted from being part of the Chance to Scheme scheme, with new children coming to us for junior practice nights. We are sorry to see him leaving Tameside and wish him all the best in his new role in Warrington and Chester.'
Keith Johnston, Chairman of Newton CC.

'Coaching & Development Officer, Gareth Moorhouse has been an enormous help to our club , and on a personal level he has helped me develop my coaching methods and attitudes. His enthusiasm is infectious and nothing is ever too much trouble for him going above and beyond his duties. He is a credit to the Cheshire Board and I cannot praise his efforts highly enough.'
Dominic Bennett, formerly of Newton CC.

'I loved the Chance to Shine programme! The children were so enthusiastic about cricket and taking part in the programme. I know the Year 4 children particularly enjoyed it. They were quite a challenging year group and the class teacher was able to use cricket on Friday afternoon as a bribe all week! It promoted good behaviour and a healthy sense of competition. As an impartial observer I notived a huge amount of progress in the children's ability. They all achieved something in the lessons and knew themselves that they were gradually getting better. This made the hard work in the lessons seem worthwhile and gave them all a huge sense of achievement.'
Rebecca Norris, PE Co-ordinator, St Josephs, Sale.

'Before Chance to Shine the children were reluctant to try new sports and football was the game of choice on the playground at break. Not only did the children grow to love the sessions in curriculum time but almost every break and lunchtime the children would demand a cricket set to play with! The varied games they were taught in the curriculum sessions were so straight forward and varied that the children were able to play in small groups or classes with ease during breaks. The length of time the sessions were delivered for was also very beneficial as the children's skills progressed so much and they began peer teaching other classes during breaks. One child in particular sums the Chance to Shine sessions up, he was new to the school and quite reluctant to show any enthusiasm for PE. After the sessions he is now so settled with the other children and cannot stop running around and competing in PE lessons! I know personally that I thoroughly enjoyed the competitive nature of the Chance to Shine sessions. Having a specialised coach to deliver the lessons enabled me to observe techniques and develop my own subject knowledge. Also the fact that I was able to join in with the children help build a positive and happy relationship, which improved some children's attitudes in class. I would be more than happy to take part in more sessions with new or existing classes and I know the children are keen to play in the team next year and get all children in Trafford playing cricket.'
Alison Padmore, PE Co-ordinator, Lime Tree Primary School, Sale.

'My class was fortunate enough to take part in the Chance to Shine programme. It was extremely well planned to meet the needs of all of the children in my class. The coaches were child-friendly and immediately made them feel at ease as well as enthusiastic about the sport. They also encouraged the teachers to join in and participate in lessons. Each week the sessions built on previous learning and introduced skills that were invaluable to the game of cricket. The children particularly enjoyed working hard to win the weekly trophy. My class enjoyed it so much that we regularly played on other afternoons when the coaches were not in school. Team work greatly improved with the children. They wanted to help each other to succeed. This then helped with other activities in and out of class. They also found it really enjoyable to play with the children from Lime Tree School. A good way of meeting children from another school. They got to know these children well over the weeks during tournaments and looked forward to games when we were all together. My new class have already asked me when we are doing cricket again as most of these children were in the other class having cricket coaching at the same time as mine last year. A great success for the children at Worthington.'
Alison English, Year 3 / 4, Worthington Primary School, Sale.

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