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Gloucestershire hosts 300 children for Schools Day in partnership with Chance To Shine

11 June 2024

Gloucestershire Cricket hosted around 300 children from ten schools for a day of fun-filled cricket games and coaching at the Seat Unique Stadium today.

The Schools Day, organised in partnership with the Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation (GCF) and Chance to Shine, saw nine and ten year olds from across the South West descend on Gloucestershire’s home ground at Nevil Road for an action-packed day away from the classroom.

Starting with an assembly with Gloucestershire Head Coach Mark Alleyne, T20 captain Jack Taylor and Western Storm’s Fran Wilson, the students were treated to an access-all-areas tour of the stadium, coaching with members of the Gloucestershire first-team, led by the GCF, and were even given the chance to play cricket on the historic Nevil Road outfield. The day also involved an energetic drumming activity powered by Drumba, who specialise in delivering programmes in schools that not only get students moving but also ignite their inner drummer.

While providing the students with a fun-filled day out at the end of the school year, the visit also gave each student the chance to engage in and learn about the sport of cricket with Q&As with several of Gloucestershire and Western Storm’s first-team playing squad. Through working with Chance To Shine on programmes like Schools Day, the Club hopes to continually inspire young people through cricket in state schools and communities across our region.

Speaking about wanting to help inspire the next generation, England and Western Storm player, Fran Wilson, said: “I remember my first experiences of cricket and how valuable it was to learn about the game from an early age, so it was amazing to see so many youngsters feeling energized by their experiences today.

“We all want the game of cricket to continue to grow and that is only possible if the next generation feel inspired to pick up a cricket bat and get involved. I hope everyone who came along had a great time and learnt some new skills today.”

Stuart Priscott, Operations Manager - South West & Wales, South Central for Chance to Shine, said: “Most professional cricketers begin their journey in cricket at primary school age so we work in schools up and down the country to encourage early engagement in the sport.

“It’s really important that children feel inspired and enjoy physical activity, so it’s been brilliant to have a number of Gloucestershire and Western Storm players here to pass on their knowledge and wisdom to the next generation.”

Stoke Lodge Primary School was one of the ten schools that took part in today’s activities, bringing with them 30 lucky students.

Rupert Davies, Class Teacher and Residential Lead at Stoke Lodge Primary School, said: “We have thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to experience a day with Gloucestershire County Cricket Club. They supported, coached and encouraged our young players and offered a range of activities that were adapted to suit everyone.”

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